The Icelandic Horse is the most 'isolated' breed in the world, having remained untouched by any other breed of horse for over a 1,000 years.

Not a pure breed, the Icelandic is a mixture of native British breeds and native Nordic horses taken to Iceland over 1200 years ago. No horse has been allowed into Iceland since that time.

They are extremely hardy and very strong for their small size and in the past were used as Pit Ponies.

Capt. Scott used them on his fateful trip to the Antarctic.

A very few roam 'free' in suitable areas such as here in Snowdonia.

They all have Viking names, this one is called 'Vinur' meaning friend.