Hand-Picked History: The Unrivalled Carriage Collection of Russell and Pat Hand
Report by AIAT Judge Lester Dagge
A visit to Russell and Pat Hand’s equestrian centre near Shrewsbury is, quite simply, one of the most remarkable experiences a carriage driver can have. Tucked away from the frantic pace of modern life, this private sanctuary is a testament to a deep-seated passion for the horse. Built upon a foundation of strong family values, the Hands have created an extraordinary facility—not merely as a hobby, but as a legacy for their daughters and grandchildren.
The ‘Eureka’ Moment
The journey began years ago through a familiar family dynamic. As Pat spent her weekends traveling to riding competitions with their two daughters, Russell found himself becoming a “horse widow,” left alone at home. Adopting the mantra “if you can’t beat them, join them,” Russell took up the reins himself, purchasing an impressive Friesian horse for both riding and driving.
The catalyst for their current obsession came when a neighbour suggested “buddying up” their Friesians to drive as a pair. That inspirational ‘Eureka’ moment changed everything. Carriages were bought, books were devoured, and videos were studied to master the art of the turnout. Professional instruction soon followed, and as their skills grew, so did their fleet—moving from modern marathon vehicles to traditional reproductions.
The Turning Point: Picton Castle
The Hands’ trajectory shifted permanently after reading a report on the first Attelage de Tradition at Picton Castle in Wales. The allure of a far-off venue, the prestige of a castle setting, and an event the whole family could enjoy was irresistible.
Their debut was a triumph of spirit; Russell, Pat, and their family celebrated his achievement driving a pair of Friesians to a magnificent new hooded Phaeton. However, the experience provided a sharp learning curve. Under AIAT rules, modern reproductions are penalized in favour of original antique vehicles built before 1945. Undeterred and deeply inspired, Russell returned the following year with an original 1890 Stanhope Phaeton. This marked the beginning of an intense, lifelong quest for authentic carriage history.
A Growing Legacy
Russell initially focused on locally made vehicles, sourcing carriages from the Midlands—the heart of the British Industrial Revolution. Many were found in states of advanced decay and were meticulously restored by Philip Holder of Wellington Carriages. Located just 12km away, Philip remains one of the few master carriage builders in the UK capable of meeting Russell’s exacting standards.
As Russell’s research deepened, so did his ambition. The collection outgrew its original quarters, requiring a sprawling new coach house that was quickly filled with vehicles of every conceivable shape and size.
While Russell and Pat manage a thriving environmental services business, their dedication is rewarded through the time spent with their horses. To support this grand scale, Russell now employs a team of 18, working closely with local colleges to ensure the staff is expertly educated in carriage driving and equine management. This is further supported by an innovative breeding programme at the world-renowned Twemlows Stud Farm, focusing on creating the perfect driving horse: a blend of presence, tenacity, and temperament.
Custodians of History
Today, the Hand Collection is the largest private carriage collection in the United Kingdom, boasting over 150 vehicles, including seven rare Park Drags. Under the guidance of General Manager Nickola Locklin and Centre Manager Abi Hutchinson, the team prepares turnouts to a standard that others can only aspire to.
Russell’s passion lies in the provenance and individuality of original vehicles. The Attelage de Tradition has provided the perfect platform to ensure these masterpieces are seen in their full glory, rather than languishing in a museum.
Among the collection’s crown jewels is the Spencer Family (Lady Diana Spencer) semi-state harness. Having “fallen by the wayside” in the hands of those unaware of its value, the set has been painstakingly restored by Russell’s team and is set to return to the public eye in 2026.
The Peters & Sons Excellence
In recent years, Russell has focused his expertise on the celebrated maker ‘Peters & Sons’—the premier carriage builder to the Royal Family. Known for their fine lines and delicate aesthetics, these vehicles were the aspirational marvels of Victorian engineering.
This pursuit has taken Russell across Europe. One notable acquisition is an enchanting pony phaeton formerly owned by the late French notable Philip Grümer, which had remained untouched in a Parisian cellar throughout the war. Another highlight is a 1900s Thomas Tilling Hooded Phaeton, acquired from the British Science Museum Depository in original, “oily rag” condition.
In 2025, Russell came full circle, successfully competing in several Attelage events with the Thomas Tilling Phaeton—showcasing a truly authentic, untouched vehicle just as it was over a century ago.
As many participants in the AIAT world quickly discover, the Hand Collection proves one thing: when it comes to preserving history, one carriage is never enough.
