The rural day out is a celebration of community, countryside and tradition – and it’s a feast for the eyes, ears, and taste buds!
As the sun bids its long goodbye to the British summer (well, technically it was summer, yes?), families are looking for that final memorable excursion before the school year takes hold.
This year, the Dorset County Show has emerged as the end-of-summer event that promises not just a day but a whole weekend of fun for the young and the young-at-heart alike. And the best part? Children up to 16 go absolutely free!
Unleashing Monster-sized Fun
In a spectacle that will have your heart pounding and your children cheering, the world’s largest Monster Trucks—Big Pete and his audacious sidekick, The Grim Reaper—will roll into the showground in all their 7.5-tonne glory. It’s more than a performance; it’s an earthquake on wheels, complete with gravity-defying stunts and the crushing of cars just to remind you of their awe-inspiring power.
A Slice of Countryside Magic
But don’t think the Dorset County Show is all about loud engines and roaring crowds. There’s an entire ecosystem of rural life to explore. For instance, the Axemen Ring showcases foresters who are artists in their own right, wielding axes with surgical precision. Chainsaw craftsmen, too, will be on hand to demonstrate their intricate work, while falconers display the graceful prowess of birds of prey.
Animal Encounters
Perhaps one of the most fascinating attractions is your chance to encounter the wide array of animals at the show. From award-winning pigs and goats to captivating cattle and elegant horses, these creatures aren’t just for show and pets – they’re competing for the important (and valuable) title of Show Champion.
Pet the alpacas, and there are even sheep that can dance – look out for Nobby the Norfolk Horn and his talented friends in The Sheep Show. It’s nothing short of woolly wonderful!
And you can witness Dorset’s finest livestock parade in the heart of the County Show. The award winners will parade in the Main Ring on both days following the competitive classes and the Champions will be presented with their awards.
Equine Extravaganza
This year, prepare yourself for equestrian excitement with the Mounted Pony Club Games – a sort of high-octane sports day where fleet-footed nimble ponies are the stars. And if that wasn’t enough, Shetland Pony Racing also makes its thrilling debut as young jockeys showcase their fearless riding skills.
The showjumping is set to be a thrilling competition – don’t miss the Six Bar (sponsored by C G Fry & Son Ltd) on Saturday or the Accumulator (sponsored by Battens Charitable Trust) on the Sunday!
Rolling Down Memory Lane
The Vintage Tractor Parade is not just a procession; it’s a living timeline that trundles through agricultural history, while the nearby Steam Engine Section fills the air with a nostalgia that even the youngest generations will find intriguing.
Food, Craft, and More!
When tummies start to rumble, a stroll around the all-new Food & Drink Area will introduce you to Dorset’s culinary treasures. With a super-sized new Food Hall and more than 100 producers, there’s bound to be something that tempts you.
And for those inclined towards the creative, Crafter’s Avenue offers a glimpse into bygone skills that have shaped Dorset’s rural history
The Carnival Awaits
As if this wasn’t enough, the fairground beckons with its dizzying helter-skelters and pulse-quickening rides!
This year’s Dorset County Show isn’t just an event; it’s a mosaic of experiences that stretches over the whole weekend – September 2nd and 3rd. So why settle for a mundane end to the summer when a world of wonder awaits? It’s a summer send-off you won’t want to miss.
- Click HERE (or the image above) to see the Official Pre-show Magazine – find out more about what’s in store, discover some exclusive and behind-the-scenes interviews as well as all the info you need to plan your visit.
