Competition entries to the Royal Bath & West Show have returned to bumper pre-Covid levels, with advance ticket sales also showing tremendous visitor interest.
Sheep entries have reached a record level – exceeding 1,500 head – and there are 75% more entrants to the shoeing and shoemaking competitions, compared to 2022. “We are up on 2022 entry numbers in 60% of our competitions, which is amazing,” says Head of Shows, Jess Chiplen.
The British Cider Championship boasts over 500 entries, promising some superb tasting opportunities for judges and visitors alike, and of course the regional food and drink marquee will be packed with fresh, local produce to accompany a few beverages. Visitors can also enjoy live music throughout the day and into the evening, for those who are camping overnight.
The Show provides a magnificent shop window for presenting agriculture to non-farming visitors, as well as a perfect occasion for farmers to meet up with their friends and peers, and undertake important business. “We have 40 agricultural trade stands this year- more than in 2022 – on top of the multiple rural-based businesses who exhibit every year,” says Ms Chiplen. “We have a new Agricultural Avenue, featuring everything from all terrain vehicles to farm machinery, and Tractor Ted to timber supplies.”
As ever, the Main Ring will feature highlights including elite level show jumping and mounted games, the hound parade, and the Grand Parade of championship-winning livestock. “The vintage tractor parade will take place on 1 June at 14:15, 2 June at 14:30, and 3 June at 16:55, which promises to be a tremendous sight, featuring a wealth of agricultural history.”
The Imps Motorcycle Display Team offer daredevil action in the Main Ring, while younger visitors will love the free engineering and technology activities in the Discover the Future exhibit. They can also meet farm animals and get hands-on at Lakeside Farm, with celebrity chefs completing the farm to fork journey in the Great British Kitchen demonstrations.
“The Royal Bath & West Show really is a Great British Day Out for all the family, showcasing the very best of farming, food and rural life,” says Ms Chiplen. “We look forward to welcoming all of our valued exhibitors and visitors here on 1-3 June.”
- The Royal Bath & West Show takes place on 1-3 June 2023 at The Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 6QN. Book show tickets here: https://www.bathandwest.com/tickets
Editors’ notes.
About the Royal Bath & West of England Society
The Society was founded in 1777 in Bath by a group of philanthropists led by Edmund Rack. We are a registered charity organisation (Registered Charity Number 1039397). The Society was formed with the aims of encouraging agriculture, arts, manufacture, and commerce.
Our charitable activities provide:
- Agriculture, veterinary, educational and art scholarships
- Technical events and seminars
- Practical farming advice and conferences
- Countryside education
- Diversification advice for farmers
- Education for children
- A marketplace for countryside products
The Society continues to deliver a wonderful mix of established traditional exhibits through to the latest energy technology and contemporary entertainment.
The entertainment and features around the 240-acre site ensure enjoyment for every member of the family and include attractions that are spectacular to watch, educational, inspirational, “hands on” or just plain fun.
