Well, we finally saw a glimpse of sunshine last month, and with it came that familiar feeling that, much like the spring wildlife, the countryside calendar is starting to wake up again.
After a long winter, it’s about this time of year we all start looking ahead, pencilling in dates and giving ourselves something to look forward to as the warmer months roll in- because if there’s one thing that gets us through the tail end of winter and into spring, it’s knowing there’s a good few shows, fairs, and country days out on the horizon!
And 2026 certainly doesn’t disappoint. From long-standing country shows to country sports events and family-friendly weekends, Hollands are here with a jam-packed calendar of countryside events that you can enjoy right across the UK.
To kick off the spring season, we’ve pulled together a selection of our favourite country shows and fairs for the year ahead, so you can get them down in your diary.
So, grab your calendar, and let’s get planning.
Spring’s Opening Acts: Kicking Off the Show Season
While the show season has already quietly begun with country sports favourite- The Shooting Show, and a handful of early events through February and March, spring is when things properly get going. As the countryside shakes off its winter coat, the first of the big county shows start to bloom- and it’s often some of the best in the calendar.
May, in particular, is packed with long-standing favourites:
Devon County Show
When? 21st- 23rd May
Where? Westpoint Showground, EX5 1DJ
The Devon County Show (mid-May) is one of the largest agricultural shows in the South West, bringing together livestock, local food, crafts and countryside traditions on a proper scale.
Nottinghamshire County Show
When? 9th May
Where? Newark Show Ground, NG24 2NY
Shropshire County Show
When? 23rd May
Where? West Midlands Showground, SY1 2PF
You’ve also got classics like the Shropshire County Show, one of the oldest agricultural shows in the country, with deep roots in British farming and a real sense of a spring occasion.
These early-season shows tend to feel slightly less hectic than peak summer events, but no less enjoyable, and they’re ideal for making the most of the May Bank Holidays!
One thing to keep in mind: spring weather rarely makes up its mind (as we well know), so it’s always worth going prepared. A good waterproof jacket, a pair of reliable wellies, and a few easy layers will go a long way when you’re out on the showground all day.
Summer Showstoppers: The Peak of Country Fair Season
If spring sets the country show wheels in motion, then summer is when the countryside calendar hits full power. June and July are the true heart of show season, with some of the UK’s biggest and best-loved events drawing crowds from across the country.
June brings with it a strong start:
The Royal Cornwall Show
When? 4th June- 6th June
Where? Royal Cornwall Showground, PL27 7JE
The Royal Cornwall Show showcases the very best of the South West, from livestock and local produce to crafts and rural skills. And as one of the top agricultural shows in the country, it has the highest level of competition across our hundreds of classes, all competing for a coveted Royal Cornwall prize.
The Royal Highland Show
When? 18th -21st June
Where? Royal Highland Centre, EH28 8NB
For the same standout event, just in Scotland, The Royal Highland Show is one of Scotland’s iconic country events, known for its scale, quality livestock and proud celebration of Scottish farming and food.
And by July, the heavy-hitters arrive:
The Great Yorkshire Show
When? 14th - 17th July
Where? Great Yorkshire Showground, HG2, 8PW
The Great Yorkshire Show is widely regarded as England’s largest agricultural show (home to the country’s first purpose-built showground too), and is a firm favourite for families every year.
The Royal Welsh Show
When? 20th - 23rd July
Where? Royal Welsh Showground, LD2 3SY
Not long after, the Great Yorkshire Show, The Royal Welsh Show takes centre stage, renowned for its champion livestock, traditional displays and unmistakable Welsh character.
The Game Fair
When? 24th - 26th July
Where? Ragley Hall, B49 5NJ
And, of course, we couldn’t forget The Game Fair. A highlight in the country sports calendar, typically held in late July, The Game Fair brings everything together from shooting and fishing to gundogs, food and countryside brands. It’s a brilliant day out all round, whether you’re passionate about country sports or simply curious to see what it’s all about.
With many of these events spanning multiple days and attracting tens of thousands of visitors, it’s well worth planning ahead, booking tickets early and, if you’re travelling further afield, sorting accommodation in good time.
By this point in the year, there’s something happening almost every weekend. It’s show season in full swing, and without doubt the best time to get out, meet like-minded people, and soak up everything the British countryside has to offer.
Late Summer & Autumn: Farewell to the Fair Season
As the height of summer begins to ease, the show season doesn’t disappear; it just takes on a slightly different feel. Late August and September bring with them a final run of countryside events that blend end-of-summer celebrations with the first signs of autumn settling in.
Chatsworth Country Fair
When? 4th - 6th September
Where? Chatsworth House and Gardens, DE45 1PP
The Chatsworth Country Fair, usually held in late August or early September, is always a firm favourite, and one close to home for us here at Hollands. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Chatsworth Estate in the Peak District, it’s one of those shows people travel far and wide for. From country sports displays to food, shopping and family entertainment, it offers a bit of everything, all in a setting that’s hard to beat.
Westmorland County Show
When? September TBC
Where? Lane Farm, LA7 7NH
Into September, shows like the Westmorland County Show carry that same strong agricultural heritage on a slightly smaller scale, with a real focus on livestock, local produce and the farming community at its core.
Malvern Autumn Show
When? 25th - 27th September
Where? Three Counties Showground, WR13 6NW
The Malvern Autumn Show continues that seasonal shift, with a stronger nod towards harvest, gardens and countryside living. It’s a lovely way to round off the show calendar.
There’s also a noticeable shift in what you’ll want to wear. Early autumn shows can start crisp and damp underfoot, only to warm up by midday, so it’s worth going prepared. A good pair of sturdy boots, a wax jacket or a classic tweed gilet will see you comfortably through the day, whatever the weather decides to do!
It’s a quieter, more relaxed end to the season, but no less enjoyable for it.
Making the Most of the Show Season
With so much happening across the countryside calendar, 2026 is shaping up to be a year worth getting out and about for. From big-name shows to local favourites, these events are a chance to step into the heart of country life and enjoy the traditions that make it so special.
At Hollands, we’ve always seen ourselves as part of that community, not just a place to shop, but a small part of the wider countryside story.
So, if you’re planning your year, it’s worth bookmarking this guide so you’ve always got it to hand. And if you’ve got a favourite show you return to year after year, we’d love to hear about it!
See you this show season!
About the Author
Matthew Holland
Matt Holland is passionate about sharing tips on how to enjoy the British countryside, whether it’s through family-friendly activities or connecting with nature. Living and working in the beautiful Cheshire countryside, Matthew is a proud advocate for our British farmers and the importance of eating local, seasonal food. He combines his love for rural life with practical advice, helping others make the most of the seasons and embrace the beauty of country living.
