So who is looking forward to get ready for Appleby horse fair in 2025? because me and my family are going to it like we did this year so why not make it yearly thing. You know it makes sense! You see how welcoming the GRT community can be so we look forward to seeing you in 2025 and if it’s anything like this year, it’s gonna be awesome.
Get ready for the Appleby Horse Fair 2025! You’ve been looking forward to this iconic annual event for months. Now it’s only a year away, and you need to start planning. This fair is like no other, bringing together Romani travelers and horse enthusiasts from across Europe. You’ll see beautiful Shires and Clydesdales all decked out, meet fascinating people from unique cultures, eat yummy fair food, and experience unforgettable entertainment. But to make the most of your visit, preparation is key. This guide will cover all the essential info you need to gear up for the fair, from where to stay and how to get around, to the best spots for people watching and must-see events. With these insider tips, you’ll be ready to fully immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind festival.
The Appleby Horse Fair 2025 is going to be epic – let’s get you ready to saddle up for the experience of a lifetime!
All About Appleby Horse Fair 2025
The History
The Appleby Horse Fair has been taking place annually for over 300 years. Dating back to 1685, it was originally established as a horse trading fair. While the horse trading element still exists today, the fair has transformed into a major cultural event celebrating Gypsy and Traveller heritage.
What to Expect
The fair usually spans four days over the first weekend of June. You can expect to see over 10,000 Gypsies and Travellers descend upon the small town of Appleby, showcasing and trading thousands of horses. But it’s more than just a horse fair – it’s a chance for people to reconnect, celebrate their culture, and pass on traditions to the next generation.
The Horses
The iconic Fell pony, Dales pony, and Gypsy Cob horses are the stars of the show. You’ll see the highest quality examples of these breeds paraded through the streets, dressed in colourful harnesses and feathers. Horses are washed and groomed for days in preparation to be shown and sold at the fair. For many breeders, selling a horse at Appleby Fair can be the highlight of the year.
The People
The fair attracts Gypsy and Traveller families from all over Britain. You’ll see people dressed in traditional clothes, bowler hats, waistcoats and long skirts. Many families have been attending for generations, using the fair as an opportunity to connect with loved ones and show younger members of the community the colourful culture they belong to.
Things to Do
Aside from admiring the horses and people, there are lots of activities at the fair. Enjoy live folk music, sample traditional food like hare stew or chitterlings, or shop for handmade crafts. You can also take a pony ride along the river, or watch demonstrations of harness making and blacksmithing. There really is something for everyone at this iconic cultural event.
When and Where Is Appleby Horse Fair?
TBA – The official date will be announced on here as soon as we get the news.
Appleby Horse Fair has been held annually for over 700 years in the small town of Appleby-in-Westmorland in Cumbria, England. The fair typically takes place over the first weekend of June, kicking off on the first Thursday and ending on the following Wednesday.
Traditionally, Romani and Irish Travellers ride or drive their horses across the Pennines to Appleby, some travelling over 60 miles! They set up camp in the fields surrounding the town up to a week before the fair officially begins.
The Main Event
The highlight of the fair is the horse trading that takes place along the banks of the River Eden. Horses are paraded and groomed before being ridden at high speed along the “Flashing Lane” to demonstrate their prowess. Buyers and sellers haggle over prices, with some horses fetching well over £10,000!
In the evenings, the festivities continue with traditional gypsy music, dancing and storytelling around campfires. On the final Wednesday, the travellers begin their journey home, marking the end of the fair until the following year.
A Cultural Tradition
Appleby Horse Fair provides a fascinating glimpse into Britain’s traveller culture. The fair celebrates the Romanichal and Irish Traveller way of life, keeping alive time-honored traditions. In recent years, the fair has also become popular with “gorjer” (non-Traveller) visitors attracted to its colorful spectacle.
While the horse trading remains at its heart, the fair now features antique fairs, live music, and a range of Traveller-made goods. But its essence remains unchanged – a celebration of freedom and the traveller community. If you’re looking for an unforgettable cultural experience, the Appleby Horse Fair should be at the top of your list.
What to See and Do at the Gypsy Horse Fair
Watch the Horse Trading
The main event at Appleby Fair is the horse trading. Head to the horse fair field, where Romany gypsies gather to buy, sell, and trade their prized horses. You’ll see gypsies inspecting horses’ teeth and hooves, testing their temperament, and negotiating the best deals. Watch in awe as fortunes change hands in a matter of minutes. The horse trading is a spectacle like no other.
Explore the Encampments
Over 1,000 gypsy caravans and wagons descend upon Appleby for the fair. Take some time to walk through the encampments, where you can get a glimpse into traditional gypsy life. Many gypsies live in their ornately decorated bow-top wagons, cooking over open fires and entertaining visitors. You may even get an invite to share a cup of tea! The encampments are a photographer’s dream, filled with color, culture, and characters.
Check Out the Evening Entertainment
When night falls over Appleby, the entertainment heats up. Head to the fairground to see gypsy bands, dancers, and other live acts. Or find a cozy pub in town for a pint and some impromptu jam sessions. The gypsies love to party, so you’re sure to stumble upon some revelry during your evening wanderings. If you’re lucky, you may get to see a traditional gypsy dance contest or bareknuckle boxing match. The fun goes well into the wee hours of the morning, so pace yourself!
Shop the Market Stalls
No trip to Appleby Fair is complete without perusing the many market stalls. You’ll find stalls selling everything from gypsy clothing and jewelry to handcrafted goods and antiques. Be on the lookout for a gypsy vardo (or wagon) offering delicious fare like roast meats, stuffed potatoes, and fried fish and chips. The market stalls are open from dawn till dusk, so you have plenty of time to shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs to remember your adventure.
Tips for Attending Appleby Horse Fair 2025
Book Accommodations Early
The fair attracts over 10,000 visitors each year, so lodging fills up fast. Book rooms, campsites or RV spots 6-12 months in advance. Options range from hotels, B&Bs and vacation rentals in nearby towns to campgrounds on the fairgrounds. Wherever you stay, be prepared for crowds and possible noise at all hours.
Dress for Any Weather
Appleby Fair is held the first week of June, but the weather in Northern England can be unpredictable that time of year. Pack for rain, sun and chilly nights. Wellies or waterproof boots, rain jackets, shorts, t-shirts and layers are must-haves. Don’t forget a hat, scarf and gloves.
Explore the Area
The fair officially opens on the first Wednesday in June, but many Romanichal (Romani) families arrive a week or two early to set up camp and trade horses. Walk around the campsites and stables to see gorgeous Gypsy Vanners, observe horse deals in action and get a glimpse into Romanichal life.
Watch the River Crossing
One of the highlights is the horse river crossing, where riders guide their horses across the River Eden. The main crossing is on the Thursday of fair week, but smaller crossings happen daily. Stake out a spot on the riverbanks with other spectators to watch skilled riders navigate the rocky riverbed.
Shop the Market stalls
Appleby Fair is also a place for commerce. You’ll find stalls selling everything from hearty British fare and sweets to handcrafted goods, trinkets, clothing, and more. Come prepared to barter for the best deals.
Respect the Romanichal Culture
Appleby Fair is an important cultural tradition for Romanichal Gypsies. Be courteous, ask permission before photographing people or horses, and follow the rules. Don’t feed or touch the horses without asking the owner. Appreciate that you are a guest at a private event. With an open and respectful attitude, you’ll gain insight into Romanichal heritage.
The ultimate tip: take your time soaking in all the sights and sounds of this legendary event. Appleby Fair is a vibrant festival like no other. Enjoy!
Appleby Horse Fair 2025 FAQ
When is the Appleby Horse Fair 2025?
TBA – TO BE ANNOUNCED CLOSER TO THE TIME
The fair officially starts on the first Wednesday of June, but many travellers arrive earlier in the week to get a good camping spot and soak in the atmosphere. The horse fair itself, with horse trading and competitions, runs from Thursday through Sunday.
Where exactly is the Appleby Horse Fair located?
The Appleby Horse Fair takes place on the banks of the River Eden in the small town of Appleby-in-Westmorland in Cumbria, North West England. The event sprawls across several fields on the outskirts of town, about a mile south of the town center.
How do I get to the Appleby Horse Fair?
The closest major city is Carlisle, about 30 minutes west of Appleby. From there, you can drive, take a bus, or hop on a shuttle service to the fairgrounds. Many fairgoers also arrive by camper van or live in horse-drawn wagons and carriages for the duration of the fair. Once in Appleby, the fair is within walking distance from downtown and most camping areas.
Where can I stay during the fair?
Most fairgoers camp onsite in tents, campers, or live in their horse-drawn wagons. There are also B&Bs, hotels, and rental cottages in Appleby and the surrounding villages. Everything books up quickly, so reserve your spot as early as possible. The fairgrounds open for camping the weekend before the official start of the fair.
What can I expect at the Appleby Horse Fair 2025?
The Appleby Horse Fair 2025 will feature all the sights and sounds you’d expect from a historic English horse fair: •Horse trading and selling, with beautiful Gypsy Vanners, Cobs, and Fell ponies on display. •Horse competitions and shows, like trotting races. •Colorful Gypsy wagons, carriages, and fairgoers in traditional dress. •Live folk music, dancing, and plenty of cider and ale. •Delicious food like hog roasts, stew, and fresh bread. •A festive and lively atmosphere throughout the fairgrounds.
The Appleby Horse Fair 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable event. Experience a iconic slice of English country life and culture at one of the biggest and best-known horse fairs. See you there!
Conclusion
So there you have it, a complete guide to experiencing Appleby Horse Fair in all its glory for 2025. From tips on the best places to stay, what to wear, and how to get there, to the history of the fair and what to expect when you arrive, you’re now fully prepared to dive into one of the biggest equestrian events in the world. With your newfound knowledge in hand, all that’s left to do is start finalizing your plans. This is sure to be a trip you’ll never forget, filled with amazing horses, vibrant culture, and a ton of fun. The countdown is on – see you at Appleby!
