The Fell Pony - During Roman times, Friesland horses were imported into the north of England. The Friesian horses were large and were noted for their strength, long stide, docility and ability to live on poor pastures. By inter-breeding with the local native ponies a new stamp of animal was produced inheriting the Friesian's dark colour, hardiness, bone and temperament resulting in the Fell Pony. Merchants used Fell ponies to transport their goods from place to place and then in the Industrial Revolution were in great demand as pack ponies carrying large weights up to 240 miles a day unshod.

Despite the Fell Pony's active role in the past, the continuance of the Fell as one of Britain's nine native breeds was severely under threat in the post-war years of the twentieth century. This was due to the reduction of horse power in villages, towns and farms where formerly they had been employed but were being replaced by machinery.

Fortunately, the widespread increase of interest in pleasure riding and driving has very much reversed the demise of the Fell Pony - which has undoubtedly attracted renewed interest because of the breed's qualities of versatility and tractability.

Despite the Fell Pony's active role in the past, the continuance of the Fell as one of Britain's nine native breeds was severely under threat in the post-war years of the twentieth century. This was due to the reduction of horse power in villages, towns and farms where formerly they had been employed but were being replaced by machinery. Fortunately, the widespread increase of interest in pleasure riding and driving has very much reversed the demise of the Fell Pony - which has undoubtedly attracted renewed interest because of the breed's qualities of versatility and tractability.

For more information on this breed visit :

The Fell Pony Society Website

Contact:
Caroline Singer (Secretary)
The Fell Pony Society
Federation House
Gilwilly Industrial Estate
PENRITH
Cumbria CA11 9BL
Telephone / Fax: 01768 891001
e-mail: fpsoc@bhs-inter.net