ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF FARMING

The Kent County Show returns on 7, 8 and 9 July 2023 during what is the 100th anniversary of the Kent County Agricultural Society, the charity organisers behind the Show.

The Kent County Show, now in its 92nd year, will acknowledge this achievement through several special displays and exhibits. The One Hundred Years of Farming display will take visitors on a journey back through time, with live re-enactments telling the story of farming throughout history. There will also be a chance to learn more about the society’s past and its charitable work.

The Shetland Pony Grand National, a popular crowd pleaser, is this year’s main ring attraction. With jockeys aged between eight and 13 and ponies no bigger than around 40 inches tall, they may be small, but they sure are mighty, and exceptionally fast.

Not only do the races make for enthralling entertainment, but the participants are competing to qualify for the Shetland Pony Grand National finale at the Olympia Horse Show later in the year. Come and cheer on your favourite horse and jockey each day in the Astor Ring.

There will be action in the skies as well as on land, with an anniversary special aerobatic display from the Pitts Special. This world-class biplane, with smoke system and unmatched acoustics, will make for a breath-taking 15-minute display each day.

Back by popular demand, the UK’s only travelling pig stage show, the Hogg Show, will take place on all three days. Meet some of the rarest pigs from across the world with names such as Wool-i-Ham and Harry Trotter, and laugh as they show off their intelligence and amazing agility.

For the thrill seekers out there, the show jumping competitions in the Astor Ring make for exciting viewing. Once again, the show will be holding the exclusive International Trial, bringing top horses and riders from across the country to compete. Other entertainment includes the Lamb National, sheep dog and falconry displays, fairground rides and much more.

Livestock remains a core part of the show and a favourite amongst visitors. Hundreds of cows, sheep and goats of all sizes, shapes and colours converge on the showground with their handlers, competing to take home the prize for Best in Show. Get close to the animals in the livestock tents and watch exhibitors trim and preen in preparation for showing classes.

The Village Green provides the perfect sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the show, an opportunity to rest and enjoy a picnic or perhaps try something delicious from an array of cuisines on offer from independent catering units from Kent and beyond. Enjoy live music from great local acts at the bandstand with a glass of Pimms in hand, or head to the public bar and restaurant for refreshments and to try your hand at a round of mini golf.

The woodland area showcases the skills and crafts of the woodland and forestry industry and is the perfect place to discover more about the county’s woodlands and the work needed to maintain and conserve them. The country, game and canine area has trade stands, displays and interactive activities ideal for dog owners. Get involved with have-a-go dog agility and K9 Aqua Sports, which is returning with its popular dock diving activities.

For vehicle enthusiasts, the heritage section will boast displays of vintage vehicles and machinery. With classic cars, commercial vehicles, buses, motorcycles, tractors, steam and stationary engines, the heritage section shows the evolution of transport over time.

Book your tickets online to take advantage of the pre-show discount on general admission. Young people aged three to 15 pay just £1.