After more than two decades in uniform, serving first with the Band of the Irish Guards and later with the Blues and Royals, Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, Kieran Forsyth  has settled into a very different kind of service — though one that still demands precision, craftsmanship, and care for the horse. From his workshop near Reading, Kieran runs Clansman Saddlery , bringing a lifetime of experience, military discipline, and traditional skills to riders across the Home Co

Leathercraft is a craft steeped in heritage — a meeting of patience, skill, and the right tools. Every mark, every stitch, every smooth edge owes its quality to the tools that shape it. Many of these have changed little in centuries, their designs refined by generations of saddlers and harness makers who understood the balance between precision and feel. In this post, we take a closer look at some of the timeless instruments that define traditional leatherwork — the tools tha

🐎 Upcoming Equine Events in the South of England (October–December 2025) The autumn and early winter months bring a vibrant array of equine events across the southern counties. Whether you're a competitor, spectator, or simply an equine enthusiast, there's something for everyone. Here's a curated list of notable events to mark in your calendar. 🎠 London International Horse Show – ExCeL London (18–22 December 2025) The London International Horse Show at ExCeL London is a pre

Leather is the heart of every piece of saddlery — from the seat of a well-worn saddle to the fine stitching on a bespoke bridle. It’s a material that has shaped equestrian craftsmanship for centuries, valued for its strength, flexibility, and timeless beauty. Yet not all leather is created equal. Understanding the differences in quality, type, and treatment can help riders appreciate why a handcrafted item from a master saddler stands apart from mass-produced alternatives. At

In the UK, field riding, hunting and covering large terrain demand a saddle that offers comfort, security and durability — this is where a proper deer saddle  comes into its own. At Clansman Saddlery we often fit and supply saddles optimised for this work, blending time-tested traditions with modern fit standards. What is a Deer Saddle? A deer saddle is a specialist variant of the English saddle, designed especially for riding in the field, rough ground and long days in the t