Fell Horses

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Hardworking individuals should be rewarded for being workaholics. One good reward could be a Fell Horse. Fell Horses are known to be hardworking horses and so they can truly symbolize one’s efforts and love for work. If you know someone who’s hardworking, reward give him/her with a Fell Horse. Somehow, it encourages them to take some time off from work, unwind and relieve stress.

It has been said that the Fell pony springs from different horses brought to Europe and are bred with ponies during the Roman times.

The first fell ponies were strong, sure-footed and docile. Their characteristics made people took advantage of what they can do. For example, the Vikings used for plowing and sledge pulling while the Normans used them for shepherding. During the 13th century’s brisk trade in Belgium, local ponies were utilized in the transportation of this merchandise. Even until today, they are still used as pack ways. At the advent of Industrial Revolution, canals, roadways and railways were introduced. Since then, ponies were not longer considered to be of much use.

In just a short time, many of them disappeared. Some were sold abroad and are slaughtered. However, they are still surviving in their Lakeland home since the true pony breeding stock on the Cumbrian hills was not affected at all. In 1916, the Fell Pony Society was established with very low numbers. Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth is the Patron of the Fell Pony Society and her husband, HRH Prince Philip. The Queen breed Fell ponies and even has a number broken to the carriage. Whereas, Prince Philip succeeded in various 4-in-hand competitions before he retired. Queen Elizabeth’s bred ponies are easily recognized because a prefix “Balmoral” is added to each of their names. But as pleasure riding came to surface in the 1950s, the number of registered ponies has increased ever since.

Fell ponies stand 13 to 14 hands high and usually come in black but bay, brown and grey colors. They have small heads with broad foreheads, slanting shoulders, powerfully-built bodies, strong back and hindquarters, full mane and tail. They are popular for their excellent stamina and vigorous movements. They are also energetic and hard working.

The Riding for the Disabled Association utilizes the Fell pony for both disabled children and adults. Generally, they are ideal for trekking, driving, and in various in-hand competitions.