The Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show returns to Motcombe on 19th and 20th August, bringing together more than 160 years of agricultural heritage with two days of livestock competitions, countryside activities and family entertainment.
From butter making to terrier racing, vintage tractors and hands-on countryside experiences, this year’s G&S Show is putting families firmly at the heart of the action with lots of free activities included in the ticket price. Visitors can expect prize livestock, polo demonstrations, local food and drink, rural crafts, vintage machinery, music and children’s activities – all included in a single day out designed to appeal across generations.
There’ll also be heavy horses, horticulture and handicrafts alongside popular attractions including terrier and ferret racing, gun dog displays and the family dog show.
New for 2026 is horseboarding, a fast-growing equestrian sport that combines horsemanship and mountainboarding. Teams of horse, rider and boarder race around an obstacle course in a display of speed and coordination.
More than 350 trade stands are expected, together with live music, food and drink and a range of hands-on countryside activities designed to help visitors learn more about farming and rural life.
Show organiser Cat Harris said the event continues to celebrate the best of Dorset’s farming community while providing a day out for all ages.
The Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show takes place at Turnpike Showground, Motcombe, on Wednesday 19th and Thursday 20th August.
gillinghamandshaftesburyshow.co.uk
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