Henson stud farm

The “Espace Equestre Henson-Marquenterre” is the main breeding farm in France for Henson horses. It is its “raison d’être” and all our efforts are geared towards the production of the best possible horses, genetically coming from the historical bloodlines which have so well established the reputation of the Henson breed.

The Henson stud-farm consists of over 100 heads (stallions, mares and foals under the age of 3, sometimes older…), all year-round thriving in the meadows of the “Espace Equestre Henson-Marquenterre” and in the wetlands of the bird sanctuary of the “Parc du Marquenterre”.

Consistent with the initial philosophy, the breeding farm is managed according to the principles of a “natural approach”: covering, foaling and raising are occurring in outdoor conditions; even though this requires looking after the animals on a permanent basis, as well as monitoring the stock integrity on a day-to-day basis.

7 registered stallions are available on our premises and our production reaches 30 to 35 foals a year, which makes the “Henson-Marquenterre” stud-farm –by far- the main production center of Henson horses in France.

Innovation is at the heart of our priorities, following 3 main directions :
- continuing enhancements of the genetic potential,
- breeding conditions optimization,
- foal handling, schooling and training techniques improvements.

Henson horses are usually available for sale when 3-years old, but some people prefer to purchase a foal upon weaning, or when 1 or 2-year old, or even just before the breaking time, because they want to handle it by themselves.

Nothing is more important than to come and visit our stud-farm at the “Espace Equestre Henson-Marquenterre” and benefit from the advice of our stud-farm manager to choose your Henson horse in the best possible conditions. Because, as it is often said : “the horse is indeed choosing you, not the contrary…”

A 3-year old Henson horse represents an affordable investment. This investment is even more attractive when one knows the very competitive cost of being able live outdoor all-year-long. Prices vary according to sex (females are a bit more expensive) and to the level of training.

For all information regarding our breeding activities, please contact us to set up an appointment with our stud-farm manager (telephone: +33 3 22 25 68 64).

Stud farm visits

The “Espace Equestre Henson-Marquenterre”, the main historical breeding farm of the Henson horses, is located half-a-mile away from the gates of the bird sanctuary of the “Parc du Marquenterre”. It allows great opportunities for students to get an orientation on breeding techniques and activities. Visits include the discovery of the caretaking conditions on a stud-farm of over 300 acres, with its seasonal works and living in harmony with its natural environment.

Rates: 8€ per person.

Foal handling

Each year, we spend a good deal of time in handling the foals and breaking them during the winter and the spring time of their third year. Although we do not offer it as a regular service, we can organize sessions on foal handling techniques.
Please contact us, if interested.