Discover the best of Hertfordshire's agricultural offerings at the upcoming event hosted by the Hertfordshire Agricultural Society. Everyone involved has been working hard to put on a show that will entertain and inform, celebrating all that our County is and stands for- with its rich history and a diverse landscape.
With easy access to London via motorways and railways, Hertfordshire serves as a gateway to the bustling metropolis while also providing a peaceful escape. From the banks of our chalk streams to the wonderful patchwork of hedgerow lined fields and woodlands, the county is a treasure trove of cottage industries, modern technologies and leading scientific institutions.
Join us at the event to experience the perfect blend of traditional and modern farming practices. Take a stroll through our cattle and sheep lines and marvel at the displays of both modern and classic machinery in the Food and Farming Area.
Don't forget to catch the National Qualifier Classes in showing, show jumping, and driving inn the Jubilee arena and Tarmac Showjumping ring – one of the best grass arenas in the country. For some added excitement, be sure to check out Ben Atkinson and his Roman Riding and Liberty horse display, as well as the Fantastic Foxtrotting Farmers Forklift display.
The event is not just about entertainment but also education. Get up close and personal with the animals and participate in demonstrations that showcase sustainable farming practices. Due to popular demand, we're bringing back the thrilling pig racing experience.
Sarah said: “The display of both modern and traditional agriculture will be a large part of the show and help to educate people about sustainable farming practices.
“There will also be an opportunity to make your own ‘Hertfordshire Lunch’, where visitors of all ages can learn about the importance of shopping local, whilst making your own meal with some of Hertfordshire’s best produce.
“You’ll begin by grinding your own flour, making your own flat bread before adding the toppings and throwing it in the oven, ready for you to eat and enjoy on the day.”
In addition to these activities, visitors can enjoy a range of entertainment options, including the Wye Valley Axe Men, showcasing carving, circus and bike skills, plus a creative workshop where you can make an animal out of recycled materials.
The village green will have music and dance, a bouncy castle for the younger children, locally produced cider, beer, and the Pimm's tea pot, vintage allsorts afternoon teas, and our renowned food hall.
The Made in Herts marquee will offer a period of retail therapy, with a chance to browse trade stands and indulge in refreshments from our County’s very own butchers, growers, and brewers.
For Hertfordshire Agricultural Society members, there are member-exclusive areas, free attendance and invitations to a variety of other events held by the society throughout the year.
One visitor said: “A great day out for all of the family. For the children once the entrance fee has been paid, there is no need to spend any more on them – they can even make and eat their own pizza.
“For others there is entertainment in every shape and form, be that spending a small fortune on fudge, learning about local honey helping hay fever or relaxing with a glass of prosecco listening to the music. Obviously, this is all on top of all the competing and attractions in the main show areas.”
For the business-minded, local entrepreneurs will take to the stage in the Lord-Lieutenant’s Entrepreneurs Challenge. Finalists have three minutes to describe their business and appeal to a panel of experienced business judges and the public.
Renowned BBC commentator Stuart Storey DL will conduct an entertaining yet thorough questioning session, reminiscent of Dragon’s Den. The winners will be awarded prestigious and valuable prizes generously gifted by our show’s sponsors.
The Hertfordshire Agricultural Society is grateful for the incredible yearly support of its sponsors, who help us as we continue to build collaborative relationships with the aim of welcoming more in the future.
Learn more about our sponsors in our sponsorship brochure.
Hertfordshire County Show is proud to have been allocated a selection of brand-new classes that qualify for the London International Horse Show at ExCel in December. The British Show Horse Rising Star classes are for amateur competitors, they are performance led with no ride judge with direct qualification for the first placed horse and rider and semi-final places for those in second and third place.
The British Show Pony Society classes are not restricted to amateurs but are performance classes that showcase the breed, allowing competitors to demonstrate the versatility of their ponies.
There is no requirement for a society membership to compete in these classes. However, those lucky enough to qualify for the finals will need to become members of the relevant society to take part in them.
Finally, visitors can browse and shop from 250 to 300 traders selling their products to 30,000 people across grass sites, the Made in Herts marquee, and the Food Hall. We have seen a large range of trades in our show over the last 60 years, allowing great versatility in the products on offer to the public.
Traders come from across the country, including local small businesses from Hertfordshire and neighbouring counties, selling everything from locally produced rum to hats made in Oxfordshire.
Don't miss out on what promises to be a great day out for all the family at the Hertfordshire County Show, May 27-28, 2023.
