Fell Pony: Size, Temperament and Care

Who a Fell Suits

Fells suit adults and families who want a strong, sensible pony for hacking, trekking and driving, and riders who like a pony with character. They are popular driving ponies.

They are strong and clever, so consistent handling matters, and a young Fell is better for an experienced owner.

Pack Ponies of the North

Fell ponies come from the uplands of Cumbria and the north of England, where they worked as pack ponies, carrying loads such as lead and wool, and on hill farms. Herds still run on the fells.

The Fell Pony Society keeps the stud book. Queen Elizabeth II bred Fell ponies and was the society's patron, which brought the breed many admirers.

Feeding and Grazing

Like most native ponies, Fells evolved on poor, rough grazing and are very good at turning a little food into a lot of pony. On rich lowland grass that talent becomes a problem: they put on weight fast, and extra weight raises the risk of laminitis. Ask your vet whether your pony's grazing should be limited, especially in spring and early summer.

Base the diet on forage: grass in moderation and weighed hay, often in a small-hole haynet. Most need little or no bucket feed, just a ration balancer or mineral lick for vitamins and minerals, plus salt and fresh water. Read feeding horses forage first and body condition scoring.

Hooves, Teeth, Coat and Weather

Fells have hard, blue horn hooves. Pick them out daily and book the farrier every few weeks. Keep the feather clean and dry and check the skin underneath when grooming. Book a dental check at least once a year.

Their thick winter coat and long mane and tail handle hill weather well, so most healthy Fells with shelter don't need a blanket (rug) unless clipped.

Company, Space and Handling

Fells need equine company and daily turnout, ideally on rough grazing or a track system rather than lush pasture. See grazing and pasture management.

Health: Preventive Care

Book a check-up soon after your pony arrives, and ask your vet about vaccinations and a worming plan guided by fecal egg counts. Plan for the farrier every few weeks and a dental check at least once a year. Score body condition every few weeks, by hand: weight creeps on quietly, especially on spring grass.

Worming, vaccinations and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your pony and where you live.

Buying, Loaning or Rescuing

The Fell Pony Society, breeders and rehoming charities can help you find a pony. Have a vet do a pre-purchase examination, check the passport, and ask about traffic, driving experience and the farrier. See buying a horse.