The Teesdale area is home to some of the finest country shows in the North of England. These traditional agricultural shows celebrate rural life, showcase local produce, livestock, crafts, and bring communities together for a day of entertainment and competition.
From prize-winning vegetables to show-jumping, sheepdog trials to vintage tractors, there's something for everyone at these beloved annual events.
2026 Show Calendar
Mark your calendars for these traditional country shows
Eggleston Show
Date: Wednesday 26th August 2026
Location: Eggleston Village, Teesdale
One of the oldest and most traditional agricultural shows in the region, Eggleston Show has been running for over 150 years. Set in the picturesque village of Eggleston, this show is a true celebration of rural Teesdale.
What to expect:
- Livestock classes including cattle, sheep, and poultry
- Horticultural exhibits - vegetables, flowers, and produce
- Sheepdog trials
- Show jumping and equestrian events
- Vintage tractor display
- Craft and trade stands
- Children's sports and activities
- Refreshments and local food stalls
Entry: Adults £8, Children (5-16) £3, Under 5s free, Family ticket £20
Middleton-in-Teesdale Show
Date: Saturday 30th May 2026 (Spring Bank Holiday Weekend)
Location: Middleton-in-Teesdale Show Field
The Middleton Show is a highlight of the Teesdale calendar, attracting visitors from across the North of England. This vibrant show combines traditional agricultural competitions with modern entertainment.
What to expect:
- Extensive livestock classes - cattle, sheep, goats, and rare breeds
- Horticultural marquee with competitive classes
- Dog show and sheepdog demonstrations
- Show jumping arena
- Vintage machinery and classic cars
- Craft marquee and artisan stalls
- Fell race
- Children's entertainment and fairground rides
- Food court with local produce
Entry: Adults £10, Children (5-15) £4, Under 5s free, Family ticket £25
Romaldkirk Show
Date: Saturday 5th September 2026
Location: Romaldkirk Village Green
A charming village show with a friendly, community atmosphere. Romaldkirk Show maintains the traditional spirit of agricultural shows while welcoming families for a fun day out.
What to expect:
- Sheep and cattle classes
- Horticultural exhibits
- Handicrafts and home baking competitions
- Terrier racing
- Children's fancy dress
- Local craft stalls
- Refreshment tent
- Raffle and tombola
Entry: Adults £5, Children free
Barnard Castle Meet
Date: Easter Monday, 21st April 2026
Location: Barnard Castle Market Place
A traditional Easter Monday gathering featuring the Zetland Hunt and a parade of horses through the historic market town.
What to expect:
- Hunt parade through town
- Terrier show
- Hound parade
- Market stalls
- Street entertainment
Entry: Free event
Startforth Agricultural Show
Date: Saturday 11th July 2026
Location: Startforth, near Barnard Castle
A well-established show featuring strong agricultural classes and family entertainment.
What to expect:
- Cattle and sheep classes
- Show jumping
- Vintage tractors and machinery
- Horticultural tent
- Trade stands
- Children's activities
- Food and refreshments
Entry: Adults £7, Children £2, Under 5s free
Cotherstone Show
Date: Saturday 22nd August 2026
Location: Cotherstone Village
A friendly village show with a strong emphasis on local produce and community participation.
What to expect:
- Sheep classes
- Horticultural exhibits
- Home baking and preserves
- Photography competition
- Children's classes
- Craft stalls
- Refreshments featuring local Cotherstone cheese
Entry: Adults £4, Children free
Lunedale Show
Date: Saturday 29th August 2026
Location: Grassholme, Upper Teesdale
A traditional hill farming show in the beautiful upper dale setting.
What to expect:
- Hill sheep classes
- Cattle judging
- Sheepdog trials
- Fell race
- Horticultural tent
- Local crafts
- Refreshments
Entry: Adults £6, Children £2
Nearby Major Shows
Worth the journey
Westmorland County Show
Date: Thursday 10th September 2026
Location: Crooklands, near Kendal
One of the largest agricultural shows in the North of England, featuring over 300 trade stands, livestock competitions, and spectacular main ring entertainment.
Northumberland County Show
Date: Monday 25th May 2026 (Spring Bank Holiday)
Location: Bywell, Northumberland
A premier agricultural event showcasing the best of Northumberland farming, with extensive livestock classes, equestrian events, and rural crafts.
Great Yorkshire Show
Date: Tuesday 14th - Thursday 16th July 2026
Location: Harrogate Showground
England's premier agricultural show, attracting over 130,000 visitors. Three days of livestock, equestrian events, food halls, and countryside entertainment.
Bellingham Show
Date: Saturday 29th August 2026
Location: Bellingham, Northumberland
A traditional Border show with strong sheep classes, sheepdog trials, and a wonderful community atmosphere.
Want to Exhibit?
Most shows welcome entries from both experienced exhibitors and first-timers. Whether you've grown prize vegetables, baked the perfect cake, or want to show your livestock, there's a class for you.
How to enter:
- Download the show schedule from the relevant website (usually available from May onwards)
- Choose your classes and complete the entry form
- Submit entries by the closing date (typically 2-3 weeks before the show)
- Bring your exhibits on show day morning
- Judging usually takes place before the show opens to the public
Popular classes for beginners:
- Vegetables - longest runner bean, heaviest marrow, collection of vegetables
- Flowers - vase of garden flowers, single bloom classes
- Baking - Victoria sponge, fruit cake, scones
- Preserves - jam, chutney, marmalade
- Photography - landscape, wildlife, village life
- Handicrafts - knitting, sewing, woodwork
Visitor Tips
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes (fields can be muddy)
- Waterproof jacket (weather can change quickly)
- Sun cream and hat (for sunny days)
- Cash (some stalls may not accept cards)
- Reusable bag for purchases
- Camera for memories
Getting There
- Most shows have dedicated parking (usually £3-£5)
- Arrive early to avoid queues
- Follow show signage from main roads
- Some shows offer park and ride services
- Check show websites for detailed directions
- Consider carpooling with friends
Show Day Etiquette
- Keep dogs on leads at all times
- Don't touch livestock without permission
- Stay behind barriers during competitions
- Dispose of litter responsibly
- Be patient in busy areas
- Support local exhibitors and traders
- Respect the countryside code
Supporting Our Local Shows
Country shows are run by volunteers and rely on community support to continue. Here's how you can help:
- Attend: Your entry fee helps cover costs and shows your support
- Exhibit: Enter classes to keep competitions vibrant
- Volunteer: Shows always need helpers on the day
- Sponsor: Businesses can sponsor classes or rosettes
- Spread the word: Tell friends and family about upcoming shows
- Buy local: Support the craft and food stalls
These shows are an important part of our rural heritage and community life. Let's keep them thriving for future generations!