The Fell breed is distinctive and consistent in appearance, breeding uniformly true to type. Fells are large ponies, standing 13-14 hands (52-56") at the withers although the average is 13.2 hands.

They are well muscled but not drafty, suitable for riding and driving.
An important conformation feature is well laid back and sloping shoulders to give the comfortable riding action. The shoulders should not be too fine at the withers.
The legs must be strong, with plenty of flat bone and the feet round with the characteristic blue horn, and there is feathering around the feet.

Most Fells are solid black, though browns, bays and grays are occasionally seen. A small white star and small amounts of white on the hind legs below the fetlock is permissible. Heads are small with a straight profile. Manes and tails are profuse.