Ben Atkinson’s Action Horses set to headline Devon County Show 2026

World-renowned horseman Ben Atkinson and his acclaimed Action Horses will headline the Main Arena at the Devon County Show 2026, organisers have announced.

The show, held at Westpoint Arena, will run from Thursday, May 21 to Saturday, May 23, bringing together agriculture, entertainment and countryside traditions for one of the South West’s largest annual events.

Ben Atkinson and his team have built an international reputation for their work in stunt riding, classical dressage and liberty horsemanship, with performances featured in film, television and major live productions. The Atkinson family has spent more than 30 years training horses and riders, earning recognition for combining technical precision with dramatic storytelling.

Audiences at this year’s show can expect a varied display, ranging from the quiet connection of liberty work to high-energy trick riding and traditional dressage.

Organisers say the performances are widely regarded as a “true celebration of the horse”, blending athleticism, artistry and narrative in a way that appeals to all ages.

The Action Horses will perform across all three days of the show in the Main Arena.

Also appearing on Saturday, the event’s popular family day, will be the Bolddog Lings, known for their high-adrenaline motocross displays featuring aerial stunts, backflips and precision riding.

The Main Arena programme will also include a packed schedule of traditional and modern attractions, including showing classes, showjumping, Young Farmers rugby, vintage tractor and steam parades, scurry driving and Pony Club games.

The Devon County Show, one of the region’s longest-running rural events, celebrates farming, food, heritage and community, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year.

Event details and tickets

Devon County Show 2026
Dates: Thursday 21, Friday 22 and Saturday 23 May
Location: Westpoint Arena, Exeter
Performance times: To be announced

Advance tickets are available via: www.devoncountyshow.co.uk

Organisers have confirmed that two under-16s can attend free with a paying adult on Saturday, making the final day a key attraction for families.