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For more than six centuries, the Worshipful Company of Farriers has existed to safeguard the welfare of the horse through the regulation, development, and promotion of farriery.

 

Founded in 1356 at the request of the City of London, the Company has continually adapted to meet the needs of its time, including its statutory responsibility as Head of Profession in The Farriers (Registration) Act 1975, while holding fast to its core purpose: to uphold standards, support the profession, and act in the public interest.

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This Strategy for 2026–2030 provides a stable compass for decision-making and annual activity in line with the Master and Wardens of Court.

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Our Vision is a future in which the welfare of the horse is consistently protected by skilled, knowledgeable, and ethical farriers through the livery company.

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In this future, farriery is trusted, standards are clear, learning is lifelong, our Livery membership are engaged, and the Worshipful Company of Farriers is recognised as a steady guardian of welfare and excellence for generations to come.

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Our Mission is to lead, uphold, and advance/enhance farriery for the benefit of the horse, the profession, and the public. It is underpinned by five core values.

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Our Values

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• Integrity We act independently, ethically, and without compromise in the interests of the horse, the profession, and the public.

• Excellence We champion the highest standards in farriery, education, assessment, governance, and service.

• Stewardship We honour our heritage while responsibly preparing the Company and the profession for the future

• Collaboration We work constructively with farriers, veterinary surgeons, charities, regulators, and the City to achieve shared outcomes.

• Service We exist to serve, through leadership, charity, education, and civic responsibility

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Supporting Pillars uphold the mission and are underpinned by values:

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Pillar 1 — Professional Leadership

• Act visibly and authoritatively as a leader within the farriery profession

• Provide informed leadership in policy, regulation, and professional debate

• Maintain trust with farriers, allied professions, and the public

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Pillar 2 — Standards & Education

• Maintain robust, respected examinations and higher awards

• Champion lifelong learning and professional development

• Support excellence in assessment, judging, and practice

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Pillar 3 — Welfare, Charity & Public Benefit

• Promote understanding of good farriery among horse owners and the wider public

• Work with charities and partners to improve equine welfare

• Provide benevolence and support where it is most needed

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Pillar 4 — An Ancient and Enduring Livery Company

• Attract, support, and engage committed members

• Govern wisely, transparently, and sustainably

• Play an active role in the traditions and ceremonies of the City Civic whilst maintaining relevance in modern farriery.