North Devon Show 2025 prays for another sunny spectacular

Tickets have now gone on sale for this year’s North Devon Show and organisers have asked the weather gods to smile again following such a successful event last year.

As ever, the region’s biggest one-day agricultural show with something for everyone will be held at its normal venue near Umberleigh and takes place on Wednesday, August 6.

Visitors will get the chance to meet hundreds of animals, with the livestock classes remaining at the heart of the show.

They can also enjoy displays of falconry and competition in the various show rings, plus a quad bike stunt show, country pursuits, crafts, the dog show, horticultural delights, food and drink and much more, showcasing the best of North Devon.

Above: Meeting the many different types of animals is always a big highlight of the North Devon Show. Credit: North Devon Show

The show committee is delighted so many supported last year’s event, on the back of the freak monsoon rains which caused such disruption in 2023 and caused a massive financial hit for organisers and exhibitors alike.

Show secretary Theresa Soanes said: “North Devon Show is such a highlight in the calendar for local people and continues to be very well supported by the public.

“It was wonderful to see so many return last year. This year we are offering increased discounts on early bird tickets, which are now available.”

The show will feature an extensive programme of livestock classes with many breeds of cattle and sheep represented plus a varied equine programme with horses of all types shown as well as competing at show jumping and carriage driving.

The main Savery Ring boasts a full day of attractions including carriage driving, local falconer Jonathan Marshall, quad bike stunt show, a tractor parade and the final Grand Parade of Livestock.

The John Ley Ring will be busy with a variety of activities including the donkey parade, terrier racing, vintage cars and bikes plus the Young Farmers Club games.

Above: The junior showing competitions are a popular aspect of the show as young handlers begin their showing career. Credit: North Devon Show  

Alongside a variety of trade stands, the craft marquee and food and drink hall always prove popular, showcasing the best local skills and produce, with some 20 food outlets and three food courts around the showground offering something for every taste.

Theresa added: “This year will see the return of popular showman Jonathan Marshall, plus some amazing quad bike stunts from ATV Events.

“The ever-popular giant tortoises will be there too, as well as the much-loved ‘meet and greet the animals.' The dog shows are always really well-attended and with fairground rides and a live music stage throughout the day, there is plenty to enjoy.

“There are far too many things going on to mention them all, but there really is something for everyone to enjoy on show day.”

Buses run to the showground from Barnstaple, Bideford, Great Torrington and South Molton at £1 each way for adults and 50p for children, subsidised by North Devon Council and Devon County Council, with the full timetable on the show website.

A bus will also run from Umberleigh Station to the showground, while for drivers the ground is a five mile drive from Barnstaple on the A377, with the car park entry well signposted and marshalled.

For tickets, more show information and bus timetables, please visit the North Devon Show website at https://northdevonshow.com