Patients enjoy a special horse visit at our Hospice

28 October 2026

Patients at our Hospice were delighted to welcome Nico, a retired racehorse, and Poppy, a Shetland Pony, from New Beginnings for a special visit on Thursday 8 October.

The horses spent time meeting patients, families and staff, creating smiles and giving people the chance to enjoy a unique experience at the Hospice.

One patient summed up the day perfectly, saying: “How can life be bad when it’s like this?”

Our wellbeing team works hard to create opportunities that bring people together and help them stay connected to the things they enjoy. Seeing the smiles on patients’ faces when Nico and Poppy arrived showed just how important those moments can be.

Chris Cook
/
Occupational Therapist
Three people gather around a bridled chestnut horse wearing a green-and-yellow blanket outdoors.

The visit also gave patients and families the opportunity to spend time together, share an experience and create new memories outside of their usual routine. Organised in partnership with New Beginnings, the visit highlights the positive impact local organisations can have when they work together to support people living with a life-limiting illness.

Find out more about our wellbeing services and the support available at The Prince of Wales Hospice by visiting our wellbeing services page.

People interact with two horses on a sunny lawn, including a white pony in the foreground and a dark horse wearing a green blanket.