Appleby Horse Fair

Where: Fair Hill, Appleby and in the town
When: First Week in June (for a week but the main days are the Thursday, Friday and Saturday)
Time: All day

 

This is the best-known surviving fair for travellers and Gypsies to meet and trade in horses. There are still many traditional horse-drawn caravans which are driven through the lanes of the North of England in the preceeding days and week to congregate on Fair Hill,  just about a mile out of town. Horses are ridden down to the River Eden to be washed and you’ll see them being taken through their paces, sometimes with small carts in tow.  It’s well worth a visit as there is plenty to see and a friendly atmosphere. Books & photos are on sale at the Tourist Information centre in town.

Helpful Hints

Photography opportunities are great – we found everyone welcoming and very willing to show their horses and ponies to us. Can be muddy underfoot (and worse!) so wear appropriate footwear. Be wary of horses being driven and ridden at speed along the lanes near the fair. Plenty of food , drink and parking are available nearby and you might even get your fortune told!

In 2024 it should run from Thursday 6th to Sunday 9th June.

Click here for the event website : http://www.applebyfair.org/

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