Simon Lockyer
01 February 2020
The New Forest Show is one of the best agricultural events to take place in the UK, with three days of fun and entertainment for the whole family.
The annual event takes place every summer in Hampshire and is nearly 100 years old, with the first show having taken place in 1921. It attracts more than 100,000 people to its showground every year, making it one of the biggest events in the country.
Here, we’ll bring you all the latest news, updating the feed with the latest New Forest Show news as and when more information is released.
When is it?
The New Forest show takes place on the last weekend of July each year.
What are the New Forest Show opening times?
The showground will be open from 8am to 6.30pm on all three days.
Where does it take place?
The show takes place at The Showground, which is found at New Park, Brockenhurst, Hampshire. In case you need it, the New Forest Show postcode is SO42 7QH.
How much are tickets?
Tickets are available on the gate at £22 (adult) and £21 (senior citizen). Children aged 5 - 15 years old will be admitted for £1 when accompanied by a paying adult. Children under 5 go free! There is also a 15% discount when you buy tickets online before the 21st July and 5% w before 28th July. Buy tickets here >>
Where can I stay?
Not from the New Forest but want to make the most of your time at the show? Don’t worry; there’s plenty of accommodation on offer in the area. Whether you’re looking for a cottage with waterside views, somewhere within walking distance of a pub or something a little quirkier, there’s plenty of choice among our collection of cottages in the New Forest.
Here are some suggestions, just a couple of miles from the showground:
Are dogs allowed at the show?
Yes – but they’re to be kept on a lead at all times. Some tents, particularly those which house livestock, will not allow dogs – look out for the signs.
What are the top attractions?
Main attractions include international show jumping, a heavy horse musical drive, the Grand Parade, tractor tug o’war and more. you'll also find a traditional baking show, a sports zone and an improved countryside area. Don't miss the Atkinson Stunt Display where horses and riders will put on a show each day.
Artists, blacksmiths, flower arrangers, the WI and bakers are able to take part in contests, and other competition categories included equine, honey and bees, livestock, poultry and vegetables.
What can I eat and drink?
The delightful Garden Tearoom offers a relaxing place to stop while enjoying the lovely flower displays in the Flower and Gardening Show. There's also plenty of catering vans serving up noodles, burgers and more.
There’s a wonderful local produce market offering a huge range of fantastic eats, a picnic area, should you wish to bring your own packed lunch, and a range of beer tents run by Ringwood Brewery, ensuring your whistle is well and truly whet.
What else is there?
The New Forest and Hampshire Show sees more than 600 trade stands take their wares and fares to Brockenhurst each year, selling a wide variety of different products and services. There are also usually workshops, cattle milking demos and animals, including rabbits, birds, poultry, and cattle.
How do I get there?
Should you get the train to Brockenhurst, there’s a free shuttle bus from the Station to the heart of the Show, running from 7.30am to 7pm for advanced ticket holders. By bus, The Showground is served by the Bluestar 6 / Forest Bus, hourly, from Southampton City Centre via Millbrook, Redbridge, and Totton.
There’s a car park by the Showground, which is free of charge. The roads will be busy, though, so plan ahead and make sure you know the best route to travel on. There is also safe cycle parking, while it’s a 30-minute walk from Brockenhurst village centre.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.