Fell Ponies vary a good deal in weight and size, so that ponies may be found to carry almost any rider. The average height of the breed is 13.2 hands (54 inches, 137 cm), and the upper height limit for the breed is 14 hands (56 inches, 142 cm). The breed was bred for the harsh environment of Northern England, so they are adaptable to almost any climate.
The colours accepted in the breed are black, brown, bay and grey. Chestnuts, piebalds and skewbalds are not allowed. A star on the head and/or a white on or below the hind fetlock is acceptable. However, excess white markings are discouraged.
The Fell Pony should be constitutionally hardy and show good pony characteristics, including the traits of the mountain and moorland pony breeds, and at the same time, have a lively and alert attitude and good bone structure. The breed generally has a steady temperament.
The Fell pony has free-flowing gaits, and is generally sure-footed even in rough terrain.
Fell ponies are reliable jumpers and agile, which makes them useful for cross country riding or hunting. Most animals of the breed lack the scope to make top class jumping ponies, but Fell ponies generally are well up to local show or Pony Club event standard.