Buckingham Palace has bid a fond farewell to one of its most loyal and cherished four-legged members. Tyrone, a 19-year-old Irish Draught horse and Windsor Grey, has officially retired from royal duties, following a career pulling royal carriages in some of the Royal Family’s most significant moments.
Tyrone was particularly adored by the late Elizabeth II, who frequently visited him at the Royal Mews and brought him carrots. She held a deep affection for the Windsor Greys, and Tyrone stood out due to for his close family ties to two other royal horses: his father Storm and sister Meg.
All three were beloved by Her late Majesty and are now reunited at the Horse Trust sanctuary in Buckinghamshire.
Standing at 18 hands high – around six feet tall – Tyrone was known in the Royal Mews as ‘the gentlest giant’. Staff described him as ‘so reliable and kind-natured’, with not a bad bone in his body. As a ceremonial carriage horse, Tyrone served in the prestigious role of “wheeler”—the rear horse positioned closest to the carriage, responsible for managing much of the vehicle’s weight and direction.
Tyrone’s service began in 2012, debuting at the State Opening of Parliament, where he pulled the carriage carrying Elizabeth II. Weeks later, he made an appearance when he carried the carriage which carried Elizabeth and Prince Philip during the Diamond Jubilee.
Over the years, he appeared at numerous State Openings, Royal Ascots and major events, including State Visits. He famously pulled Harry and Meghan’s carriage during their 2018 wedding and was among the team of horses pulling the Gold State Coach during Charles III’s coronation.
One of his most poignant roles came in June 2024 during Trooping the Colour, where he helped carry The Princess of Wales on her first public appearance since her cancer diagnosis.
One of Tyrone’s final official duties came during the 2025 State Visit of French President Emmanuel Macron.
Crown equerry Colonel Toby Browne, who oversees the Royal Mews, said the late Queen ‘loved the fact there was a family connection with Tyrone, Storm and Meg’ he said. ‘Tyrone is a very popular chap – a big fan favourite. He’s incredibly hard-working and really deserves his retirement.’
Tyrone now begins a his retirement at the Horse Trust, in the Chiltern Hills of Buckinghamshire. There, he was reunited with Storm and Meg, both of whom also served the Royal Household with distinction.
On arrival at the sanctuary, Tyrone reportedly recognised his sister’s call, providing a warm reunion after their time apart.
Jeanette Allen, Chief Executive of the Horse Trust, said, ‘After his many years of public service, it is time for us to serve him and give him the best possible life here.’
