Agricultural Shows in Scotland
Scotland’s agricultural shows are major annual events celebrating farming heritage, livestock, food, and rural life. Below is an overview of key agricultural shows taking place in 2025, with their locations, dates, what to expect, and notable highlights from past editions.
Royal Highland Show (Edinburgh) – June 19–22, 2025
Description: The Royal Highland Show is Scotland’s premier agricultural showcase, held at the Royal Highland Centre near Edinburgh. This four-day event is the largest of its kind in Scotland, attracting around 190,000–220,000 visitors in recent years (InvestFife) and (FarmersGuide). First held in 1822, it has grown into one of Europe’s largest agribusiness shows and a key date for farmers, food producers, and the public alike (InvestFife).
Key Activities & Attractions: Visitors can explore over 1,000 trade exhibitors and see around 6,500 farm animals competing in 2,200+ livestock classes, from prize cattle and sheep to horses and goats (InvestFife). There are championship livestock parades, elite equestrian competitions, sheep shearing finals, and agricultural machinery displays. Extensive food and drink halls showcase Scottish produce, alongside craft stalls and rural industry exhibits. The show also features family entertainment – for example, a Forestry Arena with live lumberjack sports (pole climbing, axe throwing, chainsaw carving) (Scottish Woodlands) – highlighting traditional skills.
Highlights: The 2024 Royal Highland Show broke attendance records with over 220,000 people attending over four days (FarmersGuide). Last year’s show (2024) also garnered 200,000 livestream views and online viewers from 82 countries, reflecting its global reach (InvestFife). Around 40,000 children attended for free, and media coverage was extensive (InvestFife). Such record crowds made the showground temporarily the sixth-largest “population” center in Scotland during the event (FarmersGuide). The Royal Highland Show continues to be “the best display of farming, food and rural life that Scotland has to offer” (FarmersGuide) each summer.
Border Union Show (Kelso) – July 25–26, 2025
Description: The Border Union Show is a traditional farming show held on the last Friday and Saturday of July at Springwood Park, Kelso. It is the highlight of the agricultural calendar for the Scottish Borders (and neighboring Northumberland) (Border Union). The Border Union Agricultural Society, founded in 1813, has hosted this show for over two centuries (Showing Scene), making it one of Scotland’s oldest societies running an annual show.
Key Activities & Attractions: The show features over 500 open competitions covering pedigree horses, cattle, sheep, and industrial arts (e.g., produce, baking, crafts) (Border Union). Livestock judging and equestrian events take place in the main rings, culminating in champion parades. There are around 200 trade stands offering everything from tractors and farm machinery to country clothing and local food. A Food Fair marquee showcases Scottish and Border region producers, while a Craft & Gift Marquee offers handmade goods and artisan crafts. For families, the show provides children’s entertainment such as a funfair, kids’ activity areas, and various displays. Traditional rural pastimes (sheepdog demonstrations, pet shows) and food outlets (from fresh crepes to the ever-popular fish & chips) add to the festive atmosphere. Of course, hospitality tents and refreshment bars are on site – no agricultural show would be complete without a social pint among farming friends (Border Union).
Highlights: The Border Union Show is known for its friendly atmosphere and long history. As “the highlight of the event and agricultural calendar for the Scottish Borders” (Border Union), it routinely draws farming families and town visitors alike. In recent years, it has expanded its attractions (including dog shows and educational exhibits) to engage the wider community. While specific attendance figures vary with weather, the show’s enduring legacy since 1813 speaks to its importance (Showing Scene). It celebrated its bicentenary in 2013 and continues to thrive, blending agricultural competition with rural entertainment.
Perth Show (Perth) – August 1–2, 2025
Description: The Perth Show is a two-day agricultural show in Perth, held on Perth’s South Inch park. It typically takes place the first Friday and Saturday of August. This show has run for well over a century and is a major event in the Tayside/Perthshire farming calendar, offering both agricultural competitions and family entertainment.
Key Activities & Attractions: A centerpiece of the Perth Show is the Grand Parade of Livestock, where champion cattle, sheep, and horses from the various classes are presented – a spectacle that celebrates Perthshire’s quality farm animals (Scotland’s Best Ban). The show also features showjumping and equestrian events, sheepdog trials, and rare breed exhibits. An artisan crafts tent and food festival called “Perthshire on a Plate” bring a foodie flair – visitors can watch celebrity and local chefs give cooking demonstrations using local produce. There are many trade stands and machinery displays for farming enthusiasts, as well as rural skills demonstrations (for example, stick making or beekeeping). Live music, pipe bands, and children’s activities add to the fun. Perth Show prides itself on being “a great day out for all the family,” with something to interest both farming insiders and the general public.
Highlights: In previous years, Perth Show has welcomed around 15,000–20,000 visitors over two days (weather dependent). It is known for its hospitality and the high standard of its livestock entries. Recent shows have expanded food and drink offerings – the Perthshire on a Plate food festival has become a major attraction, featuring top chefs and showcasing local delicacies. The show also often coincides with other Perth summer events, contributing to a festival atmosphere in the city. As an example of its prestige, the Perth Show regularly hosts national livestock qualifiers and has been recognized for its prize-winning Aberdeen Angus cattle and Scottish sheep breeds.
Nairn Show (Nairn) – July 26, 2025
Description: The Nairn Show is the annual agricultural show of the Nairnshire Farming Society, held on the fourth Saturday of July at Davidson Park near Nairn. It is a traditional one-day country show that serves the farming community of Nairnshire and invites the public for a fun day out.
Key Activities & Attractions: The show features livestock judging for cattle and sheep, horse classes, and a Grand Parade of prize animals in the main ring. A special highlight unique to Nairn is the appearance of the world-famous Galcantray Clydesdales – a team of magnificent Clydesdale horses that perform in the main ring, showcasing Scotland’s heavy horse heritage (Gaskhouse). Alongside the animal competitions, visitors can enjoy a craft fair and local food stalls, a farmers’ market offering regional produce, and various trade stands. Main ring entertainment often includes pony club displays, dog agility demonstrations, and vintage tractor shows, ensuring something for all ages. Children’s amusements and family activities are provided, making it a great day out for families in the region.
Highlights: Nairn Show is cherished for its community spirit and unique traditions. The Galcantray Clydesdales display is a perennial favorite, drawing crowds to see the gentle giants perform. In recent years, the show has seen growing attendance from both farming folk and tourists, who come to experience a classic Highland agricultural show in a seaside town setting. The 2024 Nairn Show was well-attended and featured fine summer weather, which helped the livestock shine in competition. As the Nairnshire Farming Society marks over 225 years of history, its annual show remains a cornerstone summer event in the area, blending serious agricultural competition with lighthearted entertainment (Gaskhouse).
Turriff Show (Aberdeenshire) – August 3–4, 2025
Description: Turriff Show is Scotland’s largest two-day agricultural show, held annually at The Haughs, Turriff in Aberdeenshire (Visit Scotland). In 2025 it falls on Sunday–Monday, August 3–4. This show has a long history (dating back to 1864) and has grown into a major event for the North East’s farming community and the public, attracting around 24,000 visitors over two days (Visit Scotland).
Key Activities & Attractions: The show features extensive livestock competitions with 1,500+ classes for cattle, sheep, horses, poultry, rabbits, and even working dogs (Visit Scotland). Prize money is significant (over £85,000 awarded) and the prestige is high for winners, given Turriff’s reputation (Visit Scotland). In the main ring, crowds can enjoy spectacles like the harness racing (trotting) competitions – a traditional highlight in Turriff (Geograph). There are also heavy horse turnouts, showjumping, and a grand parade of champions. Off to the side, one of the largest vintage and classic vehicle displays in Scotland takes place, showcasing antique tractors, steam engines, and classic cars (Scotland’s Best Ban). Over 300 trade stands line the showground, offering farm equipment, outdoor gear, and local products (Visit Scotland). There is an indoor shopping and craft marquee, food courts featuring the finest of Aberdeenshire produce, and a lively fun fair for children (Visit Scotland). Ringside entertainment varies each year and can include dog agility shows, pipe bands, Highland dancing, and a costumed pageant reflecting rural history (Scotland’s Best Ban). In short, Turriff Show offers a huge array of attractions in one event.
Highlights: Turriff Show is often referred to as “the best of the north-east on display.” In 2024, it marked its 160th year and celebrated a successful return to full scale after pandemic disruptions, with thousands attending and competitive entries up across most categories. Highlights from recent years include the introduction of new classes (such as alpaca and goat sections) and special exhibits for agri-innovation alongside the traditional fare. The show’s longevity was honored by a visit from Queen Elizabeth II for its 150th anniversary in 2014, underlining Turriff’s standing in Scotland’s agricultural scene. Year after year, visitors praise the friendly atmosphere and the impressive range – from prize bulls to home-baked cakes – that Turriff Show brings together in a true family festival of farming.
Wigtown Show (Dumfries & Galloway) – August 6, 2025
Description: Wigtown Show is held on the first Wednesday of August at Bladnoch Park, near Wigtown in the southwest of Scotland. It is the oldest agricultural show in South West Scotland, with origins dating back to the early 19th century (Farming UK). As a one-day event, Wigtown Show is a major gathering for farmers in Dumfries and Galloway and a popular summer outing for locals and visitors.
Key Activities & Attractions: The show offers a full range of livestock classes, including dairy and beef cattle, sheep, pigs, and heavy horses. Local breeds (such as Galloway cattle and Blackface sheep) are well represented, and competitions are keenly contested. There are also poultry and rabbit shows and an industrial section for home crafts, baking, produce, and floral displays – showcasing the skills of the local community. Attendees can browse an array of trade, food, and craft stands around the field (Wigtown Show). Wigtown Show typically features main ring entertainment such as stunt displays or sheepdog demonstrations, and often an appearance by a guest performer or display team (for example, motorcycle stunt riders or falconry shows in past years). A children’s pet show, young farmers’ games, and tractor rides keep families entertained. The Food & Drink marquee highlights delicious regional products, from artisanal cheese to ice cream, giving a taste of Galloway’s larder.
Highlights: As “South West Scotland’s oldest agricultural show” (Farming UK), Wigtown Show carries a proud tradition. It regularly welcomes around 150+ exhibitors and hundreds of competitors, with attendance often in the several thousands (weather permitting). In recent years, it has innovated by adding attractions like local gin tastings and educational agricultural exhibits to broaden its appeal. However, its core appeal remains the same: a friendly country show where town meets country. The 2024 show enjoyed sunshine and strong turnout, and 2025 is expected to continue building on that success as a high point of the rural calendar in Galloway.
Black Isle Show (Muir of Ord) – August 7, 2025
Description: The Black Isle Show is the largest agricultural show in the North of Scotland, held at the Mannsfield Showground in Muir of Ord (just north of Inverness) (Gaskhouse). It is a one-day show (with an eve-of-show preview night) traditionally taking place on the first Thursday of August. Organized by the Black Isle Farmers’ Society, this show draws farming competitors and spectators from all over the Highlands.
Key Activities & Attractions: Black Isle Show is known for its impressive scale for a one-day event. It attracts over 2,000 entries of cattle, horses, sheep, and other livestock, ensuring top-quality animal displays (Scotland’s Best Ban). There are more than 300 trade stands and exhibitions, from major agricultural machinery dealers to local crafts and services (Scotland’s Best Ban). Heavy horse turnouts, cattle and sheep championships, and sheepdog trials are among the competitive highlights. A large food and craft fair offers everything from homemade baking to local whiskies. For families, there is an “On the Farm” exhibition aimed at kids – an interactive area where children can learn about farming by petting animals, milking model cows, and watching demonstrations (Scotland’s Best Ban). The show typically includes attractions like a vintage machinery rally, sheep shearing contests, and sometimes novelty acts (e.g., tug-of-war competitions or acrobatics). The evening before the main show day, a preview event features live music, a rodeo or stunt show, and social gatherings, building excitement. Uniquely, the Black Isle Show was the first agricultural show in Scotland to launch its own mobile app for visitors – providing maps, schedules, and real-time results (Black Isle Show).
Highlights: The Black Isle Show regularly sees over 25,000 visitors in a single day (Scotland’s Best Ban), a testament to its popularity. It is famed for its lively atmosphere – by late afternoon of show day, the beer tent and entertainment areas are bustling with celebration of the day’s winners. In 2024, the show marked its 185th year (it began in 1836) and was a sell-out success with full livestock lines and record trade stand participation. Highlights from past years include royal visits (HRH Princess Anne has attended) and the introduction of new features like cookery demonstrations and live music stages to enhance the visitor experience. The Black Isle Show’s enduring slogan is “All the fun of the farm” (Black Isle Show) – and it lives up to that by providing an educational, fun-filled day that celebrates Highland agriculture.
Orkney County Show (Kirkwall, Orkney) – August 9, 2025
Description: The Orkney County Show, held in Kirkwall’s Bignold Park on the second Saturday of August, is the grand finale of Orkney’s agricultural show circuit (Orkney). Orkney has several parish shows in the days leading up to it (such as the East Mainland, West Mainland (Dounby), and South Ronaldsay shows), and the County Show brings together the best of the islands’ livestock and produce. It is often described as “the most important date in the Orkney calendar” (Orkney County Show) for the farming community.
Key Activities & Attractions: At Orkney County Show, visitors can see the finest livestock from across the Orkney islands – pedigree cattle, sheep, goats, horses – with the champions of the local shows competing for county titles (Orkney). The show ring features top-class cattle and sheep judging, and spectators can witness Orkney’s reputation for quality beef and dairy stock on display (Orkney). There are also classes for poultry, waterfowl, dogs, and pets, ensuring all facets of island farm life are represented (Orkney). Beyond animals, the showground is a hive of activity: a large machinery display showcases modern farming equipment (and often vintage tractors too) (Orkney). Dozens of trade stands and charity stalls line the field, many run by local businesses and organizations, creating a marketplace buzz (Orkney). A funfair with rides and games, plenty of food vans offering local burgers, seafood, and home bakes, and musical entertainment contribute to a carnival atmosphere (Orkney). Orkney’s rich rural heritage is celebrated through demonstrations of crafts like sheep shearing, spinning, or even fiddle music and folk dancing on the sidelines.
Highlights: The Orkney County Show is truly “an agricultural show at its very best” (Orkney County Show). It consistently impresses visitors with the quality of Orkney’s livestock, which is often noted as among the best in Scotland. A unique aspect is that winners from all the smaller island shows converge here – so the competition in each class is effectively a “champion of champions” among the islands (Orkney). This raises the stakes and the excitement. In recent years, the show has seen around 5,000–6,000 attendees, which is significant given Orkney’s population, and reflects how the whole community turns out. The show’s 2019 edition (the last before a pandemic pause) was notably successful, with over 90 trade stands and a packed entertainment program (Orkney County Show). The 2022 and 2023 shows returned strong, reaffirming that Orkney’s agricultural spirit is alive and well. Whether you’re an Orcadian or a visitor, the County Show offers “a chance to celebrate Orkney’s rich agricultural heritage” in a fun, family-friendly way (Orkney) – a perfect culmination of the summer show season in the islands.
Comprehensive List of Shows in 2025
| Show Name | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Beith Agricultural Show | Event Passed | Beith, North Ayrshire |
| Neilston Agricultural Show | Event Passed | Neilston, East Renfrewshire |
| Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow Agricultural Show | Event Passed | Knapps Loch, Kilmacolm, Inverclyde |
| Fife Show | Event Passed | Kinloss House Estate, Kinross, Fife |
| Stewarton & Dunlop Agricultural Show | Event Passed | Stewarton, East Ayrshire |
| Drymen Show | Event Passed | The Showfield, Drymen, Loch Lomond |
| West Fife Agricultural Show | Event Passed | Easter Bucklyvie Farm, Crossgates, Fife |
| Angus Show | Event Passed | Brechin, Angus |
| Gargunnock Show | Event Passed | The Showfield, Gargunnock |
| Campsie Show | Event Passed | Milton of Campsie, East Dunbartonshire |
| Newmilns Agricultural Show | Event Passed | Newmilns, East Ayrshire |
| Stirling Agricultural Show | Event Passed | Gogar Mains Farm, Blairlogie, Stirling |
| Alyth Agricultural Show | Event Passed | Alyth, Perth and Kinross |
| Royal Highland Show | Event Passed | Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh |
| Kilbarchan Show | Event Passed | Monklands Farm, Kilbarchan, Renfrewshire |
| Doune & Dunblane Show | July 5, 2025 | Keir Mains, Dunblane, Perthshire |
| Echt Show | July 12, 2025 | Echt, Aberdeenshire |
| Kirriemuir Agricultural Show | July 19, 2025 | Kirriemuir, Angus |
| Fenwick Agricultural Show | July 19, 2025 | Fenwick, East Ayrshire |
| Sutherland Show | July 19, 2025 | Dornoch, Sutherland |
| New Deer Show | July 19–20, 2025 | New Deer, Aberdeenshire |
| Caithness Show | July 18–19, 2025 | Caithness, Highland |
| Border Union Show | July 25–26, 2025 | Springwood Park, Kelso, Scottish Borders |
| Nairn Show | July 26, 2025 | Davidson Park, Nairn, Highlands |
| Antrim Show | July 26, 2025 | Antrim, Northern Ireland |
| Perth Show | August 1–2, 2025 | South Inch, Perth |
| Turriff Show | August 3–4, 2025 | The Haughs, Turriff, Aberdeenshire |
| Wigtown Show | August 6, 2025 | Bladnoch Park, Wigtown, Dumfries & Galloway |
| Black Isle Show | August 7, 2025 | Mannsfield Showground, Muir of Ord, Highlands |
| Orkney County Show | August 9, 2025 | Bignold Park, Kirkwall, Orkney |
| August 16, 2025 | Breadalbane Park, Killin, Stirling |