The Hurworth Hunt is steeped in history, being one of the oldest hunts in the country. The early history of the pack is not easy to unravel, but the first official records commence in 1803 when the Wilkinson brothers of Neasham Abbey took over the pack. There is however, earlier reference to a pack being kept by a Mr Turner of Hurworth in 1775, and in 1790 “Nimrod” refers to the Hurworth’s foxhoun
ds. In 1927 Colonel Bell of Mount Grace Priory financed the construction of the Hunt kennels at West Rounton, near Northallerton, where the hounds are kennelled to this day. The Hurworth country is traditionally within North Yorkshire, Durham and Cleveland. It is mainly grass and arable with some plough and some forestry to the east. Baily's relates that "obstacles are plentiful and varied, and are mainly timber and hedges, with some hunt jumps"
Our neighbouring hunts are the Bedale, Bilsdale, Cleveland, South Durham and Zetland. Visitors, irrespective of their age, experience and knowledge of hunting are very welcome to come out with us (all the known conditions permitting). Secretary who can advise you of details - e.g. rates, times of meets, directions, where to unbox, etc. They will be very pleased to hear from you and to answer any questions you may have. We particularly welcome and encourage children and young persons coming out and riding to hounds as we recognise them as hunting's future. We also particularly welcome members from the local branches of the Pony Club. Our days are entirely dependent on the support and goodwill of local landowners and farmers, for which we are immensely grateful. We are a very social hunt with a number of events throughout the year, from hunt balls to hunter trials, mounted hound exercise mornings, quiz nights, and the annual Point to Point. The aims of this page to share life with hounds and horses, and to promote the countryside in which we live.
