Horse Breeds: Fell Pony

The Fell Pony has it origins in ancient times. Its ancestors arrives in what is now Great Britain back during the ice age, crossing from the mainland by means of an ancient land bridge. Those ancient ponies moved around the Great Britain, eventually settling in the hills surrounding what would eventually become the beautiful Lake District in Cumbria, located in northwestern England. This environment helped shape those ancient ponies into the modern Fell Pony.

The name Fell comes from the Middle English term for hill, which was, not surprisingly, fell. So these ponies are named for the hills upon which they make their home. Today, there are approximately fifteen herds of Fell Ponies running wild in England, and these are far from the only Fell Ponies in existence. Children and even small adults can ride these ponies, but they really excel in combined driving. Their small stature makes them quick and nimble, two qualities that help them pull ahead in the cross-country phase of combined driving.

Standing only 12.2 to 14 hands high, this pony is small but powerful. Most Fell Ponies are black, but bay, brown, and even light grey are acceptable colors. White markings are acceptable, but these are usually confined to socks or a white star on the forehead. Because this pony has existed mostly free of human intervention, it tends to retain its more prehistoric characteristics. This includes a thick mane and tail, feathers on the legs, and a thick undercoat, all designed to help keep water away from the sensitive skin.

Moving with an easy gait, the Fell Pony is a beauty to watch. A concentrated effort is being made to ensure this doesn't change. Though many societies have risen up to protect and preserve this breed, The Fell Pony Society does more than most. It also handles the registration and export of ponies from the United Kingdom.