Get Ready for the UK Game Fair 2024!
You will know by now that Hollands Country Clothing is passionate about all things countryside, and so we can't help but get excited when we see events like the Game Fair 2024 coming up on the calendar.
Hosted on the grounds of the incredible Blenheim Palace, the Game Fair is a celebration of everything we all love about rural life. As a shooter myself, it's great to see this particular beloved country sport being celebrated and honoured in such grandeur. It's a reminder that the traditions and joys of the British countryside are alive and well, and there's no better place to experience them than at this fantastic event.
So, in this guide, we're sharing all the key details and giving you the low-down on all the exciting things happening this year.
Key Details of the Event
Here are all the essential details you need to know:
- Date: Friday, July 26th - Sunday, July 28th, 2024
- Location: Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1PP
Opening Hours
- Gates open at 8:00 am
- Stands open daily from 9:00 am
- Closing times:
- Friday and Saturday: 6:00 pm
- Sunday: 5:00 pm
It's also worth noting that BASC members qualify for complimentary entry to The Game Fair 2024.
What to Expect at the Game Fair
Dubbed "Glastonbury for the green welly brigade" by The Telegraph, this is a 3-day event that country folk look forward to all year long. With non-stop excitement, celebrity sightings, and hands-on experiences, it's bound to be a weekend you won't soon forget.
Here's a sneak peek into what you can expect during your visit.
Exciting Activities and Attractions
From the thrill of casting a line in the fly fishing pond to the breathtaking displays of falconry, The Game Fair is a playground for countryside enthusiasts.
A few key highlights are:
- Suffolk Horse demonstration and fast-paced Shetland Grand National.
- Complete shooting exhibition - from shotguns to rifles, clay guns to airguns, and more.
- Be amazed by skilled gundogs showcasing their talents.
- Hold your breath during the thrilling Side Saddle Association Display Team performance.
- Join Shooting Times rabbiting expert Simon Whitehead for ferreting demonstrations.
- Explore fine art, furniture, contemporary works, decorative arts, jewellery, and antiquities at the Arts & Antiques Pavilion.
Family-Friendly Fun
There is so much on that the little ones can get involved in.
- Meet different hounds at the Horse and Hound Arena and spot various breeds, from labradors to spaniels. Keep an eye out for the uniquely named Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.
- Watch exciting demonstrations by the Pony Club and marvel at the skills of young riders and their trusty steeds.
- Let imaginations run wild with hands-on activities, such as archery and airgunning - all under expert supervision, of course!
- Take a spin on The Big Wheel for a bird's-eye view of all the action.
There's also plenty of space for them to run around and burn off some energy.
Educational Experiences
Head over to the Carter Jonas Game Fair Theatre for a dose of countryside wisdom and wit! Engage in lively discussions on everything from conservation to shooting ethics, and hear firsthand accounts from seasoned experts in the field.
You can also learn more about the highly skilled and traditional art of gunmaking from some of the best in the profession at the Gunmakers' Court, an area within Gunmakers’ Row.
Plus, the Game Fair is proud to support the Get Into Fishing (GIF) initiative alongside the Angling Trades Association (ATA). Learn all about fishing and improve your technique with hands-on experiences from the experts on hand.
Meet Celebrities and Experts
Get ready to rub shoulders with the stars and learn from the best at The Game Fair 2024 UK.
Here's who you can expect to meet:
-
James Martin:
- Celebrity chef James Martin returns to host the ever-popular VIP Enclosure.
- Enjoy an immersive experience and indulge in fine cuisine prepared by James himself.
- With a focus on sustainable food sources, many ingredients are sourced locally, ensuring a fresh and delicious dining experience.
-
Merlin Griffiths:
- TV’s best-known bartender, Merlin Griffiths, will be shaking things up at the bar in the VIP Enclosure.
- Sample his exclusive cocktails (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), including the Rose Garden Spritz and Devil-May-Care.
-
Dick and Angel Strawbridge:
- Renowned television personalities and stars of the beloved series “Escape to the Chateau,” Dick and Angel Strawbridge, will be bringing their charm and expertise.
- The dynamic duo will be hosting the VIP Enclosure alongside James Martin on the Sunday of the event.
Hands-On Activities
The Game Fair is the perfect opportunity to learn something new or hone your existing skills.
Here's what you can look forward to:
- Test your aim and precision with airgun shooting.
- Channel your inner Robin Hood and try your hand at archery.
- Cast a line and reel in the fun with experts from the Fishing Village.
- Bring your furry friend and compete in one of three fun have-a-go dog competitions.
- Meet highly trained polo ponies, pick-up some basic moves (like swinging a mallet), and learn the rules under the guidance of professionals from Oxford Polo.
- Visit the Clay Pigeon Shooting Association stand to learn about the sport, discuss hot topics like lead ammunition and firearms licensing, and experience the exhilaration of clay shooting.
VIP Enclosure
As we mentioned, plenty is happening in The VIP Enclosure, so it's worth considering picking up one of their packages to make the most of your time at the fair.
| Package | Welcome Drink | Breakfast | Lunch | Tea & Coffee | Forward Parking | All-Day Access to |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Platinum | ✓ | Cooked | Three-Course | ✓ | ✓ | The Enclosure & the Garden, The Enclosure Lounge, The Cash Bar, Shop & Drop, VIP Toilets |
| Gold | ✓ | Not Included | Three-Course | ✓ | ✓ | The Enclosure & the Garden, The Enclosure Lounge, The Cash Bar, Shop & Drop, VIP Toilets |
| Silver | ✓ | Cooked | Not Included | ✓ | ✓ | The Enclosure & the Garden, The Enclosure Lounge, The Cash Bar, Shop & Drop, VIP Toilets |
| Bronze | Not Included | Not Included | Not Included | Not Included | ✓ | The Enclosure & the Garden, The Enclosure Lounge, The Cash Bar, Shop & Drop, VIP Toilets |
Please note that the entry ticket is not included as part of the package, so you'll need to purchase that separately. But children under 7 are welcome into The Enclosure free of charge, making it a family-friendly space to enjoy the fair's festivities.
Camping & Glamping
Extend your Game Fair adventure with a fun camping or glamping experience!
Here's what you need to know about both options:
Camping
Camping at The Game Fair offers you the chance to enjoy the camaraderie of fellow outdoor enthusiasts while being right in the heart of the action.
- A dedicated shuttle bus service makes it easy to reach the main site from the campgrounds. It's also just a short 20-minute walk if you'd prefer.
- Bring your car and park it next to your tent.
- Choose between three or five-day camping packages, with powered or non-powered sites available.
- New for this year, the family zone provides a safe and fun environment for families to enjoy the event together.
- The campsite offers improved facilities, including toilets and showers, to ensure your comfort throughout your stay.
Glamping
- For those who prefer a touch of luxury, the glamping options provide all the comforts of home amidst the beauty of the outdoors.
- Stay in a bell tent complete with a proper bed, crisp linens, duvet, cushions, and throws.
- Glampers enjoy a personal parking space right next to their bell tent, making it easy to access their accommodation and belongings.
- Dedicated toilets and showers are available exclusively for glampers, ensuring privacy and convenience.
- Indulge in a pamper tent, equipped with salon-quality amenities such as hair dryers, straighteners, curling tongs, and mirrors.
- Choose from three or five-night stays, with or without power, to suit your preferences.
Getting There and Practical Information
Transportation Options
Getting to The Game Fair 2024 is easy and convenient, with various transportation options available:
-
Train:
- There are regular train services to nearby stations, including Oxford, Oxford Parkway, and Hanborough. Be sure to check train schedules as timetables may change.
- There are rail connections available from many other cities, by changing at Reading, Didcot Parkway or Birmingham New Street.
-
Bus:
- Bus routes connect nearby train stations to Blenheim Palace. Look out for Bus 7 from Oxford Parkway, Bus S3 from Oxford, and Bus S7 from Hanborough.
-
Car:
- Free parking is provided courtesy of Beretta. Blenheim Palace is accessible via major roads and highways, making it easy to reach by car. But please consider carpooling with friends or family to reduce traffic and parking congestion.
- Special parking arrangements are made for visitors with disabilities to ensure accessibility.
Remember to download the app before the event to access maps, schedules, and exhibitor information. The event has gone digital, so there aren't any paper show guides.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on a fixed, non-retractable lead.
Summary
As a country sports enthusiast, seeing events like The Game Fair thriving is always a joy. There is so much on all weekend, and we love that you can even make it a stay-cation by choosing to camp (or glamp!) overnight.
So, will you be heading there this year? We'd love to hear if you're planning to attend. Drop us a comment and let us know.
And remember, even if you can't make it this time, we've got plenty of country events and happenings to keep you in the loop. Check out our blog and email newsletter for all the latest updates.
Plus, if you're in need of some classic country attire, we've got you sorted with our fantastic collections. From shooting clothing to mens and womens country lifestyle, there's everything you need to look your best at The Game Fair and beyond!
About the Author
Matthew Holland brings a wealth of expertise and passion to the world of shooting. Residing and working in the beautiful Cheshire countryside, Matthew not only writes about shooting experiences but lives them firsthand. As a member of a regular shoot, he draws from his personal experiences to share insights and recommendations for this country sport. Combining his practical knowledge with a genuine love for country living, Matthew is your trusted guide to all things shooting and hunting.
