Finding a Farrier in the UK: What to Look For and What to Pay in 2026
How to find a registered UK farrier, what shoeing and trimming should cost in 2026, and the warning signs of bad hoof care.
Why the right farrier matters
"No hoof, no horse." Every rider has heard it, and it's true. A good farrier keeps your horse sound, comfortable and working; a bad one can create years of problems.
Only a Registered Farrier can shoe a horse in the UK
Under the Farriers (Registration) Act 1975, it is a criminal offence for anyone other than a Registered Farrier to shoe a horse in Great Britain. Trimming an unshod horse is not restricted in the same way, but shoeing absolutely is.
Before you book, ask for the farrier's Farriers Registration Council (FRC) number and check it on the FRC's public register. A professional farrier will not be offended — they'll expect the question.
Typical UK farrier prices in 2026
- Trim only (barefoot): £30–£50
- Remove and refit shoes: £70–£95
- Full set of new shoes (front & hind): £95–£140
- Remedial shoeing: £140–£220+
- Call-out fee for a single horse at a private yard: £10–£30
Most horses need attention every 5–8 weeks.
What a good farrier visit looks like
- Watches your horse walk and trot on a hard surface before starting
- Asks about any changes since the last visit
- Takes time to balance the foot properly
- Explains what they're doing and why
- Leaves the horse standing square and comfortable
Warning signs
- Refusing to give an FRC number
- Rushed visits — a full set of shoes takes over an hour on most horses
- Uneven foot balance or shoes fitted too small
- Repeated lameness or foot soreness after shoeing
- Aggressive handling
Finding a farrier near you
Word of mouth at your yard is the traditional route, but availability is tight. Equibase lists Registered Farriers by county with visit fees, typical shoeing prices and coverage area.