Steeped in tradition, yet packed with something for everyone, few experiences come close to the UK’s lineup of country shows.
From the rolling hills of Yorkshire to the glens of Scotland, expect livestock, crafts, country sports, food, and plenty of fresh air – as well as endless stands to shop ‘til you drop. These 11 events capture the true spirit of the great British countryside.
11 Must-Visit Country Shows
1. The Great Yorkshire Show – A Must-See Agricultural Event in North Yorkshire
One of the biggest agricultural shows in the country, the Great Yorkshire Show brings together top-class livestock, fun rural crafts, and chic countryside fashion. It’s a full-on celebration of farming and country life where visitors will find a mix of serious competition and light-hearted entertainment, set in a stunning rural showground just outside Harrogate.
Need to know:
- Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire
- Date: Mid-July 2025 (four days)
- Highlights: Livestock competitions, equestrian events, cookery theatre, countryside shopping
2. The Royal Highland Show – Scotland’s Premier Agricultural Showcase
Dating back to 1822, this long-standing favourite champions Scotland’s agricultural strength and rural skills. Expect impressive cattle, competitive shearing, and plenty of regional produce to sample. The site is always buzzing with activity, and there’s a real sense of pride in local farming.
Need to know:
- Location: Ingliston, near Edinburgh, Scotland
- Date: Late June 2025 (four days)
- Highlights: Highland cattle, shearing competitions, Scottish food and drink, family areas
3. The Suffolk Show – Family-Friendly Agriculture in East Anglia
Suffolk Show delivers a great mix of traditional farming and hands-on experiences. There’s a strong community feel and lots of things to keep everyone entertained – especially the little ones. Horses, food stalls, and plenty of countryside shopping make it a good all-round day out.
Need to know:
- Location: Trinity Park, Ipswich, Suffolk
- Date: Late May 2025 (two days)
- Highlights: Showing Scene turnout, grand ring displays, countryside fashion
4. The Royal Welsh Show – A Celebration of Welsh Farming
This is the flagship farming event in Wales and it truly shows, but it’s also one of the largest country shows in the UK. It’s packed with livestock classes, horse events, and expert demonstrations of proper rural skills. Expect food, music, and a friendly crowd for the full countryside experience from start to finish.
Need to know:
- Location: Llanelwedd, Builth Wells, Powys
- Date: Mid–Late July 2025
- Highlights: Sheepdog trials, Welsh produce, horse events
5. The Balmoral Show – Northern Ireland’s Rural Highlight
A lively four-day event just outside Belfast, Balmoral blends farming, sport, and family fun. It’s a showcase of Northern Ireland’s rural roots, with a brilliant mix of animals, entertainment, and local food to be enjoyed. Consider it a firm favourite in the Northern calendar – and a good excuse for a weekend overseas!
Need to know:
- Location: Balmoral Park, Lisburn, near Belfast
- Date: Mid-May 2025 (four days)
- Highlights: Showjumping, artisan food, livestock parades, rural crafts
6. The Royal Cornwall Show – Cornwall’s Rural Heartbeat
This show is a proper celebration of Cornish life and a key date in the West Country. From cattle rings to cookery demos, it’s both traditional and welcoming – attracting over 120,000 visitors across the three days. Add in local produce, dog displays, and craft tents, and it’s an event for all ages.
Need to know:
- Location: Wadebridge, Cornwall
- Date: Early June 2025 (three days)
- Highlights: Cattle and sheep classes, Cornish produce, dog shows
7. Ryedale Show – A Traditional North Yorkshire One-Day Event
This one-day show focuses on livestock, horses, and rural craftsmanship, with a strong local following from across North Yorkshire. You’ll find everything from jam competitions to working farm machinery nestled just below the heather-clad hills of the North York Moors.
Need to know:
- Location: Welburn Park, near Kirkbymoorside, North Yorkshire
- Date: Late July 2025
- Highlights: Local food stalls, heavy horses, traditional crafts, relaxed family atmosphere
8. Kilnsey Show – Authentic Yorkshire Dales Tradition
Set in the heart of the Dales, with steep fells and working farms all around, Kilnsey show marks the end of summer, falling on the Tuesday following the August Bank Holiday. The show features fell racing, dry stone walling, and traditional sheep classes. It’s gritty, genuine, and a true display of Yorkshire’s agricultural scene.
Need to know:
- Location: Kilnsey, Wharfedale, North Yorkshire
- Date: August Bank Holiday Tuesday 2025
- Highlights: Kilnsey Crag Fell Race, speed shearing, Dales crafts, livestock showing
9. Chatsworth Country Fair – An Elegant Take on Country Living
Chatsworth is all about pageantry and presentation. The fair features falconry, military bands, vintage cars, and cookery theatres – all set against a stately home backdrop. It’s country life with polish and spectacle.
Need to know:
- Location: Chatsworth Estate, Derbyshire
- Date: Early September 2025 (three days)
- Highlights: Scurry driving, falconry, cookery demos, fine food village
10. Frampton Country Fair – A Cotswolds Country Pursuits Favourite
Set on a traditional estate, Frampton focuses on field sports and rural skills. Visitors can try their hand at fly casting or enjoy watching working dog displays and clay shooting. The setting is idyllic and the pace is relaxed.
Need to know:
- Location: Frampton Court Estate, Gloucestershire
- Date: Mid-September 2025 (Sunday only)
- Highlights: Clay shooting, working dogs, game demos, fly fishing
11. The Scottish Game Fair – Field Sports and Countryside Culture
This event brings together gamekeeping, conservation, and country pursuits in one of Scotland’s most iconic locations. You’ll find expert demonstrations, lively debates, and a marketplace packed with outdoor gear. It’s both social and educational, with a loyal following.
Need to know:
- Location: Scone Palace, Perth, Scotland
- Date: Early July 2025 (three days)
- Highlights: Clay shooting, falconry, conservation talks, gundog demos
Top Tips for Visiting Country Shows Across the UK
These events offer a true taste of the countryside — from farmyards to food stalls and cattle rings to craft tents. Whether you're a regular or it's your first time, there's plenty to see, do, and explore, but there are a few things you should know:
- Wear comfortable boots or wellies – and don’t forget your pedometer!
- Always bring cash – some stalls may not take cards
- Watch the weather – pack foldaway waterproofs just in case
- Arrive early to bag the best parking spot and browse when it’s quiet
FAQs About Country Shows in the UK
What is the biggest country show in the UK?
The Great Yorkshire Show is widely regarded as the largest, drawing over 100,000 visitors each year.
When is the best time to visit a UK agricultural show?
Most shows run between May and September, although exact dates can change from year to year. Check local listings and arrive early for the full experience.
What should I wear to a country show?
Go for comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing – with the unpredictability of the great British weather, this may mean picking your outfit on the day.
Ready to plan your rural adventures for 2025? Get the gear, mark the dates, and we’ll see you there!