Windsor Carriages Welfare and Sustainability Statement

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Our Commitment to Horse Welfare

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At Windsor Carriages, we uphold a lifelong commitment to animal welfare and the prevention of unkindness or cruelty to animals. As a Licensed Hackney Carriage Operator, with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Council, we strictly adhere to their regulations, which include:

• Annual Veterinary Examinations: Ensuring our horses are healthy and fit for work.

• Carriage and Harness Safety Assessments: Guaranteeing all equipment is safe and functional.

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We have also developed our own Windsor Carriages Hackney Carriage regulations and operating procedures, refined over 30 years of experience. These regulations ensure:

• Optimal welfare for our horses.

• Regular maintenance of carriages and equipment.

• The preservation of our historical traditions.

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Horse Welfare and Safety

• Lifelong Care: Our horses are family-owned, living with their coachmen and their families. They receive daily dedicated care, affection, and attention.

  • Upon retirement, horses remain in their comfortable environments, with their families.

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• Health and Fitness: Horses undergo annual veterinary examinations to ensure their health and fitness for work. Work schedules are carefully managed:

  • Horses work an average of two hours per day and no more than two to three days per week, rarely consecutively.

  • Horses never work the permitted eight hours per day and always have time off to rest and recover.

  • Schedules are adapted around each horses preferences and interests in their work. 

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• Training and Enrichment: Our horses are trained using humane, positive reinforcement techniques, ensuring their safety and enjoyment. Routes through Windsor Great Park are carefully chosen to provide mental stimulation and variety while prioritising the horses' comfort. We account for factors such as:

  • Gradual inclines and ground conditions to prevent strain.

  • Appropriate pairing of horses with carriages and passenger numbers to ensure manageable workloads.

  • Scenic and shaded pathways that enhance both the horses' experience and that of our guests.

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• Extreme Weather Policies:

  • Hot Weather: When temperatures exceed 29°C, we reschedule to cooler parts of the day or cancel operations. working in shaded areas where possible.

  • Adverse Weather: In wind, rain, or snow, we follow guidance from The Crown.

  • If Windsor Great Park closes for safety, all operations are suspended.

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If you have any welfare concerns, we welcome your questions and discussions. Horses cannot speak for themselves, and we value conscientious travelers who advocate for their well-being. If our answers do not satisfy your concerns, you are encouraged to contact the Windsor Licensing Team.

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Sustainability at Windsor Carriages

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At Windsor Carriages, sustainability lies at the heart of our operations. Our horse-drawn carriages exemplify eco-friendly transportation, powered by natural horsepower and honouring traditional, sustainable practices.

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To further our commitment to a greener future, we actively offset the carbon emissions generated by the limited use of diesel in our support vehicles and office operations through dedicated tree-planting initiatives. Wherever possible, we prioritise sustainable alternatives, including electric vehicles and e-bikes, allowing our team to navigate Windsor Great Park efficiently while respecting its serene, car-free environment.

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We take thoughtful steps to reduce waste and promote reuse:

• Reusable Glassware and Crockery: Perfect for our luncheons and events.

• Sustainable Gift Options: Our gift boxes are fully recyclable, and digital vouchers are available.

• Paperless Operations: Guests receive itineraries via download through our Client Portal, a centralized hub for vital information, documents, and contracts—accessible anytime, anywhere.

• Eco-Friendly Décor: Christmas decorations are crafted from natural flora and fauna wherever possible, with recycled decorations reused each year.

Every detail of our operations reflects our dedication to preserving Windsor’s natural beauty while creating exceptional experiences for our guests. Together, we ensure a legacy of luxury that respects and protects the environment.

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• Future Goals:

  • Transition to fully electric support vehicles.

  • Achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.

  • Promote sustainable tourism practices through partnerships and education.

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We encourage travelers to engage in "Conscious Travel," being mindful of their impact and opportunities to make positive contributions while exploring. Your choice to support Windsor Carriages helps preserve historical traditions in an eco-friendly and ethical manner.​

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Encouraging Open Discussion

 

We welcome thoughtful dialogue with visitors and conscientious travelers. Horses are at the heart of our business, and their well-being is our highest priority. By sharing our policies, practices, and values, we hope to inspire greater awareness and appreciation for working horses and their role in preserving historical traditions.

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Thank you for supporting Windsor Carriages and being a conscious traveler. Together, we can ensure the welfare of our horses and the sustainability of this cherished tradition, town and parkland for generations to come.