Fell Pony Society
and Conservancy of the Americas

Q What makes a Fell unique?

A British native pony is bred to think for himself, take charge of himself, and survive. Fells are survivors par excellence; constitutionally tough, but sweet natured and willing to work with you. Trust, plus soundness and intelligence, are the Fell's biggest assets.

The Fell is a large pony averaging 13-2, with the upper height limit at 14 hands. Like several other British breeds, manes and tails are left to grow long, and the feather on the lower legs should be straight and silky. Hooves are hard, "blue" (dark grey) in colour, well formed, round, and open. Fells usually have 8.5 inches of bone and often more, but flat bone is preferred to round. Colours are black, brown, bay and grey. White markings are small and limited to a small star on the head or a little white on the hind feet below the fetlocks. Fell action is from the shoulder, only moderately high and rounded, not snapping the knee like a Hackney or extending the toes like an Arab. Movement is usually very correct. Fells are built right, to do a good day's work.

A Fell, no matter how sweet natured, is NOT a pushover by any means. A Fell is smarter than the average horse and has the attitude to match. You cannot gain his respect and trust simply by sending him to a trainer; on his return he will quickly size up your capabilities and behave accordingly. A Fell requires that you be a good, firm yet kindly horseman and also have a sense of humour!

Fell Pony Society and Conservancy of the Americas

Fell Pony Society
and Conservancy of the Americas