County show 2023 August 18 UK

(United Latest News)- A charming collection of UK country shows transports attendees to bygone eras, honoring rural customs with centuries-old roots. These festivals pay homage to agriculture, gastronomy, and landscapes.

Spectacular Setting in Somerset:

Immerse yourself in the 175th Dunster Show, a not-to-be-missed event on 18 August. This show offers an array of expected attractions – livestock, tractors, horses, and amicable contests – all against the magnificent backdrop of Dunster Castle and the stunning Exmoor scenery.

TTaylor, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Thrills and Family Fun in Hampshire:

Mark your calendar for the Wellington International Horse Trials and Country Fair (£20, 26-29 August) – an exhilarating family weekend awaits. While adults can indulge in quality bars and artisanal cuisine from various stalls, children can revel in a plethora of activities included with the ticket. From bouncy castles and tractor rides to circus acts, birds of prey, and face painting, the lively atmosphere ensures boredom is out of the question. Live music throughout the event further adds to the excitement.

Barry / Royal Cornwall Show 2004 / CC BY-SA 2.0

Peak District Pastry and More:

Nestled within Chatsworth House’s splendid parkland, the Chatsworth Country Fair (1-3 September) promises a delightful experience. Admission grants you a front-row seat to equestrian marvels, dressage displays, and charming British animal events like ferret racing and adorable bunny rabbit contests. A traditional funfair and cooking workshops led by celebrity chefs provide entertainment, while the picturesque Peak District panorama offers an enchanting distraction.

East Yorkshire’s Traditions and Delights:

Circle your calendar for the Driffield Show in East Yorkshire (date to be confirmed next July). Since its inception in 1854, this event has been the local farming community’s social highlight, featuring accolades for heavy horses, sheep, cattle, horses, and ponies. Educational opportunities abound for those unfamiliar with Charolais, dexter, and limousin cattle breeds, or Oxford down, Suffolk, and Hampshire sheep varieties. Witness the captivating “dancing diggers,” explore tempting local produce in the food theatre, and marvel at the horticultural marquee for gardening enthusiasts.

Cumbrian Action and Culinary Delights:

Hold tight until August 2024 for the next Cockermouth Show, offering a diverse array of livestock, machinery, and traditional Cumbrian wrestling. Gaze upon exquisite farm animals – sheep, goats, and cattle – and enjoy show jumping, sheepdog trials, cake competitions, and tractor displays. The highlight, however, remains the ruthless Cumbrian wrestling – an intense spectacle of strength.

Wings and Flavors near Inverness:

Early August brings the Moy Country Fair, a two-day celebration of rural life at Moy Estate near Inverness. Delight in gun dog and farrier demonstrations, pipe bands, falconry displays, mountain bike stunts, and more. Explore stalls showcasing Scottish delicacies and handcrafted treasures, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

A Blend of Tradition and Modernity:

The South of England show in Ardingly harmoniously blends local livestock, horses, crafts, and activities. Step into a bygone era with its wholesome agricultural showcases, while embracing contemporary elements like craft beers, delectable cuisine, and a diverse range of stalls. Although the summer show has passed, the autumn show and game fair on 23-24 September promise excitement, including international horse trials.

Heartwarming Fun near Glasgow:

For Elaine Alexander, the Cattle Show near Glasgow in Neilston was an annual treat, featuring baby shows, tug of war, cattle judging, dog shows, and delectable food tents. Rain or shine, this tradition brought joy to her family and still thrives today.

Cheese Delights in Dorset:

Indulge in the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival (£8, 9-10 September) – a family-oriented affair boasting cheeses, pickles, crackers, wines, and even chocolates. Live music, craft stalls, cooking demos, beer/cider tents, and a tantalizing hog roast await. While dog-friendly, remember that food tents are a no-go for our four-legged friends.

Top Tip: Lancashire’s Village Extravaganza:

The Hodder Valley Show, originating in 1864, shifts its venue annually between Dunsop Bridge, Newton-in-Bowland, and Slaidburn (this year on 9 September). Amid the breathtaking Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this magical event offers a glimpse into times gone by. Traditional attractions include heavy horses, vintage tractors, fell races, sheep shearing, and sheepdog trials. Don’t miss the Slaidburn Silver Band, serenading country show-goers for over a century.