Over the course of the week-long event, Appleby and surrounding areas saw an influx of horse traders, families and spectators, with the River Eden at the centre of activity.
As in previous years, scenes of horses being washed and paraded through the town attracted crowds and photographers alike.
The Appleby Horse Fair Multi-Agency Strategic Co-ordinating Group said preparations had focused on public safety, animal welfare and minimising disruption to residents.
Temporary road closures, traffic management measures and additional policing were in place throughout the fair.
The fair, which dates back more than 300 years, remains a significant cultural event, continuing to balance tradition with modern regulation.
Here are 15 amazing pictures from the event over the years.
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Travellers arrive in Appleby, Cumbria, ahead of the Appleby Horse Fair, the annual gathering of gypsies and travellers, which begins on Thursday. Picture date: Wednesday June 3, 2026. (Image: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
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Visitors at Appleby Horse Fair 2025. (Image: Newsquest)
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Billy Welch during the Appleby Horse Fair, the annual gathering of the travelling community in Appleby, Cumbria. Picture date: Friday June 5, 2026. (Image: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
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People attending the Appleby Horse Fair, the annual gathering of the travelling community in Appleby, Cumbria. Picture date: Friday June 5, 2026. (Image: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
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People at the campsite during the Appleby Horse Fair, the annual gathering of the travelling community in Appleby, Cumbria. Picture date: Friday June 5, 2026. (Image: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
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People in horse drawn carriages during the Appleby Horse Fair. (Image: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
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Appleby Horse Fair (Image: MASCG for Appleby Horse Fair)
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Appleby Horse Fair 2025 (Image: NQ Staff)
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Horse drawn carriages parked up during the Appleby Horse Fair. (Image: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
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Appleby Horse Fair in 2025. (Image: NQ)
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Appleby Horse Fair in 2025. (Image: NQ Staff)
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People during the Appleby Horse Fair. (Image: PA/Owen Humphreys)
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Riding through the streets during Appleby Horse Fair. (Image: Jonathan Becker)
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Washing the horses in the River Eden at Appleby Horse Fair. (Image: Stuart Walker)
