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Appleby Horse Fair is one of the oldest fairs in the UK. It dates back to the rein of James II who granted a Royal Charter permitting a horse fair in 1685. Since then it has been popular with Gypsies and Travellers who visit each year buying and selling horses. The event is also celebrated with music, history and folklore amongst Gypsy/ traveller community.
The fair is held from Thursday to Sunday just outside the town on
what is now known as "Fair Hill", previously called "Gallows Hill",
the location of where public hangings once took place. Here you
will see horses being driven down the flashing lane, fortune tellers
and plenty of horse related stalls.
Down in Appleby town itself, Gypsies & Travellers can be seen
washing their horses in the river Eden ready for prospective buyers.
All along the riverside beautiful coloured Horses can viewed for
sale.
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