The rural landscape of the Lake District makes agriculture an integral part of the Cumbrian economy. As a result, the region is full of country fairs and agricultural shows throughout the summer months. Such is the rich rural history of the area, its even thought that the first ever agricultural show took place in nearby Lancashire in 1768. The many long-standing agricultural shows in the Lake District have since developed to offer much more than just a livestock trade event for farmers, and now offer a wider range of entertainment and things to see and do. Whether you are looking to treat yourself to a purchase from one the stalls, enjoy the entertainment or sample a selection of delicious foods, there is something to keep the whole family entertained!
Here’s our guide to agricultural shows in the Lake District in June and July, all make for a great day out from nearby Hawthorn’s Park.
Cumberland County Show
East Park, Brisco, Carlisle
Saturday 15th June, 8am – 6pm
£14 for adults, children up to 16 years go free (when accompanied by an adult).
One of the longest running shows of its kind, the Cumberland County Show packs in animal displays, craft stalls, classic car displays and wrestling to a fun-filled day of entertainment.
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Skelton Show
Old Park, Hutton-in-the-Forest, Nr Skelton
Saturday 6th July, 8am – 6pm
£12.50 for adults, £7.50 for concessions (OAP’s & children aged 11-18) under 11’s go free.
The Skelton Show has grown over the years from a small village show to an event that now attracts 10,000 visitors a year. With plenty of entertainment for all the family to enjoy, including live music, this show is not to be missed.
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Penrith Agricultural Show
Brougham Hall Farm, Penrith
Saturday 20th July, 8am – 6pm
£12 for adults, £8 for concessions, £4 for children aged 5-16, under 5’s go free.
The Penrith Agricultural Show is another event steeped in history, first run by The Penrith Agricultural Society in 1834. The event now attracts large crowds who enjoy the wide variety of livestock competition classes, show jumping as well as local trade stands, food hall and rural craft tent.
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Coniston Country Fair
Coniston Hall, Haws Bank, Coniston
Sunday July 21st (TBC), 11:30am
£6 for adults, £3 for children.
Set on the shores of Coniston Water, The Coniston Country Fair takes place on a stunning location with the all essentials you’d expect from an agricultural show. Traditional Cumbrian sports are celebrated at the event including the show’s well-known Fell Race.
Cockermouth Show
The Fitz, Low Road, Cockermouth
Saturday 3rd August, 9am – 6pm
£8 for adults, £5 for concessions & children aged 5-16; Free entry for children under 5, £20 for a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children).
The long running Cockermouth & District Agricultural Show has brought crowds of people to the market town since its first event in 1849. Visitors to the event can enjoy show jumping, Cumberland wrestling, a rodeo bull and much more.
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Ulverston and North Lonsdale Agricultural Show
Longrigg Farm, Urswick, Ulverston
Wednesday 24th July (TBC), 9am – 6pm
£8 for adults, £5 for concessions & children aged 5-16; Free entry for children under 5, £20 for a family ticket.
The Ulverston and North Lonsdale Agricultural Show often takes place in the first week of the school summer holidays, making this a perfect event for all the family to attend. You can find all the typical attractions of a country fair at the event, as well as cookery demonstrations, a children’s entertainment zone, live music and comedy.
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Ambleside Sports
Rydal Park, Ambleside
Thursday 25th July (TBC), 10am – 6pm
£6 for adults, Free entry for children.
With the emphasis on traditional sporting competitions, Ambleside Sports is an agricultural show with a difference. If you’re feeling active, the event offers multiple disciplines to enter and different categories for all ages to take part. In between events, visitors can enjoy trade stalls and fairground rides and most importantly, the well-stocked bar!
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If you feel like making the most of your day out take a look at our guide for things to do in the Lake District.
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