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 exhibits, demonstrations and attractions are set to deliver a weekend jam-packed with fun for the whole family.

The trees begin to blossom, the days begin to draw out and the daffodils flower – celebrating the season that sees the countryside come to life in so many colours and shades while the farms and woodlands see the birth of new life – the Spring Countryside Show opens its gates on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd April 2024.

Book your Show Ticket soon!

What is happening at the Spring Countryside Show?

Taking place over two days, the Spring Countryside Show is the perfect way to spend a day with family and friends. With a wide range of activities and attractions on offer, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See heavy horse logging, terrier racing and gun dog demonstrations. 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. Plus, for those who love a bit of vintage, there’s farm machinery and steam engine demonstrations.

Visitors can sample the artisan food stalls, marvel at the skill of local craftspeople, and even take part in traditional country skills. 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.

And if that’s not enough to ‘bring on the spring’, there’s a fun fair with bouncy castles, and tractor and trailer rides.

So come along and join us for a day out in the beautiful Dorset countryside. With something for everyone, the Spring Countryside Show is an event not to be missed!

Have a look below at just some of what happened at 2022 Spring Countryside Show…

Tickets on sale from 1st December!

Children’s Group Scarecrow Competition

A chance for your school class, guides, brownies or scouts club to enter a competition to win a prize!

Details and entry form to come soon!

Trade at the Show!

Trade Stand & Sponsorship Opportunities are available! Whether you are a Craft Producer, Food Trader, Floral Nursery or clothing stand – we have the space and price to suit your requirements.

Interested in getting your brand noticed at the show?
We've got lots of packages available to fit all sorts of different opportunities. Please get in touch with us at office@gillinghamandshaftesburyshow.co.uk to discuss further!

What are the Show opening hours?

The Spring Countryside Show opens on both days at 09:30 and closes at 17:00.

The Music Area will remain open until later on the Saturday Evening.

A Schedule of events and times will be released nearer the Show.

Are Show Tickets Day Specific?

No, all days are valid for either day, but only one day of the Show.

A timetable of events taking place at the Show will be available in early April.

Can we bring a picnic?

You are welcome to bring a picnic to eat after browsing the Show. Turnpike Showground is large enough to find a spot away from the main Show area to enjoy your picnic. Please do take all rubbish home with you or use the onsite bins provided.

Are dogs allowed?

We ask if you bring a dog that they are kept on a short lead, and kept under control and away from all Food stands. They will also not be permitted inside some marquees such as Poultry and the Cookery Theatre nor in the FarmYard Area of the Show.

Are there any hot foods for immediate consumption?

There will be lots of hot food options to enjoy at the Show or alternatively to enjoy at home. We even have some music for you to enjoy while eating the delicious foods you find!

Can I ride a bike to the Show?

Yes, you can ride your bike to the Showground and lock it to fencing onsite. Just follow the signs for Car Parking.

Will Traders accept card? Is there a Cashpoint at the Show?

The majority of Traders will accept card. However, we advise you bring plenty of cash just in case.

Due to the Showground being a field we cannot always guarantee perfect mobile signals for the card machines to work.

There is a cash point located beside the Office. However, there is a charge.

Is the Show Inside or Outside?

The Spring Countryside Show takes place mostly outside with a number of internal marquees. The Demonstrations Marquee and Cookery Theatre is mostly viewing outside. We do have a number of covered picnic areas in case of wet weather.

Where is the Public Car Park

The Car Park entrance is located along the B3081.

Car Parking is free of charge with a Show Ticket.

Can I hire a Mobility Scooter?

You can hire a Mobility Scooter from Wheels For Freedom on 01202 670450.

We advise booking early to avoid disappointment.