Fell Pony

The Fell is a very versatile British native breed. It was originally from the moorlands of northwestern England, and is a wonderful riding pony. They are closely related to their geographic neighbor, the Dales Pony, but are generally lighter in build.

Breed Characteristics

The Fell has a free and easy stride, and is very sure-footed. They are known for their fast trot, which can be maintained over long distances. They have sturdy legs, well-muscled with good bone and silky feathering. The horn of their hoof is noted for its blue color, and is very tough. The ponies have a crested neck and a full mane, deep chest, and sloping shoulder. They ponies are generally gentle, tractable, lively and intelligent, with a friendly and honest nature.

The Fell Pony may be black, brown or gray, and typically stands 13.1 to 14 hh. They should have minimal white markings.

Breed History

The Fell owes much of its development to the Old Friesian, imported into Britain by the Romans in the 2nd century, as well as the now-extinct Galloway pony. These horses could haul heavy loads of stone to build roads and stonewalls, something the small native ponies could not do, and so were bred to the ponies to give them greater substance. Then the Clydesdale, Norfolk, and Yorkshire Roadster was introduced in the 18th century to improve the Fell’s trotting ability.

In 1912, the Fell Pony Society was formed. The breed’s numbers became very low in 1945, and a breeding program was started.

Today, the Fell is shown both in hand and under saddle in hunter and jumper classes. They also excel at driving.