Agricultural Shows

Be one with the animals in South Oxfordshire

South Oxfordshire's agricultural shows allow you to absorb the countryside atmosphere and learn all about promoting and improving agriculture, horticulture and breeding and rearing livestock.

It is not often that we get the chance to catch a 'behind the scenes' glimpse of the working countryside - such as animal shearing and the use of heavy horses, so a visit to these shows is an opportunity not to be missed.

It was in 1888 that the first official 'Thame Show' took place, with its origins dating back even further to a ploughing match in 1855. Now it attracts over 20,000 people each year, is particularly popular with families and has recently been granted 'county' status.

This 118-year-old show takes place at the town's showground and events include working and domestic animal competitions, a show jumping grand prix, a sheep dog display involving ducks and a chicken, classic cars and terrier racing.

The Henley Show has been taking place for the past eight years. Shows and competitions will also take place in the shows five 'rings' to keep everyone entertained. Heavy and miniature horse shows, cattle lines, pygmy goats, poultry, cage birds, a gun dog scurry, a Llama display and a companion dog show are just a handful of examples.

Aside from the animals and the music, visitors can also indulge themselves in a produce tent, a varied craft marquee and a food and wine tent not to mention the shopping arcade and over a 100 outdoor trade stands.