The weekend event is taking place at Turnpike Showground between Gillingham and Shaftesbury on the 22nd and 23rd April
The Spring Countryside Show is BACK!
Get ready for an exciting and unforgettable experience – the first show of the year in Dorset’s rural events calendar is just around the corner! A line up of over 50 exhibits, demonstrations and attractions are set to deliver a weekend jam-packed with fun for the whole family. Taking place over two days, the Spring Countryside Show is the perfect way to spend a day with family and friends.
Nick Hill, show secretary, says: ‘With just over two weeks to go until the Spring Countryside Show we are ready to welcome everyone, and what a treat is in store! We are very excited to start off the 2023 show season with an amazing weekend of entertainment for all.’
Rural Living
Countryside pursuits and rural activities will of course be on display, including a dedicated ‘Rural’ ring sponsored by Gritchie Brewing Co. See heavy horse logging, terrier racing, gun dog demonstrations and the spectacular horseback falconry display by Jonathan Marshall. The famous Dorset Axemen will be battling it out against the clock, and back by popular demand is the hilarious ‘Sheep Show’ – yes, sheep really do love to dance.
The rural skills of farrier, wood carving, blacksmith, stickmaker and coppicer will also be on show, and for those who love a bit of vintage there’s vehicles, farm machinery and steam engine demonstrations.
In other news …
Food lovers can indulge their passion in a dedicated cookery area. The best local produce is on offer, as well as new recipe ideas in the Cookery Theatre.
Green-fingered visitors will enjoy the stunning show gardens and floral displays. Perhaps try your hand at willow weaving, in one of the various have-a-go activities that are scheduled.
For those who love animals, there will be a variety to meet and greet – whether you’re a fan of horses, sheep, goats or pigs, you’re sure to be happy.
There will also be a range of talks and demonstrations throughout the event, providing an insight into the workings of the countryside and the people who make it so special.
Entertainment
To increase the celebratory atmosphere there’s a festival area with live music, food and – of course – a bar with local ales, gin and cider. This will all be open until 10pm on the Saturday evening, so visitors can dance beneath the stars and enjoy a true festival vibe.
You can join in
If all that’s not enough to ‘bring in the spring’, there’s a fun fair with bouncy castles, and tractor and trailer rides.
Tickets are currently £14 for adults (gate price will be £16) – children go FREE! . And if you have a country craft or skill you can demonstrate, or want to try your luck at a Show Garden or floral display – there’s still time to get involved.
For tickets and more information, visit springcountrysideshow or call 01747 823955
