Celebrating a Decade of Royal Recognition: The Royal Cheshire County Show 2026

In 2026, the Royal Cheshire County Show will celebrate a truly remarkable milestone — ten years since receiving our Royal title. It’s a moment of pride not just for the Show itself, but for the entire county of Cheshire and everyone who has ever stepped foot on the showground, showcased their animals, baked a winning pie, or simply come along to enjoy a day in the countryside.

Over nearly two centuries, the Show has grown from a traditional agricultural gathering into one of the North West’s most beloved summer events — a festival of farming, food, family, and fun that captures the very best of rural life. Our Royal title, granted in 2016, recognised that legacy of excellence and community spirit. Now, a decade later, we’re looking back with pride and forward with excitement.

The 2026 Royal Cheshire County Show will be held at our permanent showground in Tabley, near Knutsford, across two action‑packed days in June. It promises to be our biggest and most vibrant celebration yet — a fitting tribute to ten years of Royal recognition and almost two centuries of Cheshire’s countryside traditions.

A Legacy of Farming and Friendship

The roots of the Show stretch back to 1838, when the Cheshire Agricultural Society was founded to promote farming, innovation, and education in the countryside. At its heart, the Show has always been about bringing people together — farmers, producers, craftspeople, and the wider community — to celebrate the land that sustains us all.

In the early days, the Show travelled around the county, popping up in towns like Stockport, Northwich, and Chester. Eventually, it settled in its permanent home at Tabley, just outside Knutsford — a site that allows us to showcase every corner of Cheshire’s countryside in one magnificent space.

In 2016, a proud new chapter began when the Show was granted the right to use the title “Royal” by His Majesty King Charles III, then Prince of Wales, recognising the Show’s significance to British agriculture and rural life. That honour reflected generations of hard work, dedication, and passion from the Cheshire community — and 2026 marks ten years since that moment.

What Makes the Royal Cheshire County Show So Special?

The Royal Cheshire County Show is far more than a day out — it’s an experience that captures the heart and soul of rural England. It’s where farming heritage meets modern‑day celebration, and where people of all ages come together to enjoy everything that makes Cheshire such a special place.

Here’s what visitors can look forward to in 2026:

1. A Celebration of Agriculture and Livestock Excellence

At its heart, the Show remains one of the UK’s premier agricultural showcases. Farmers from across the region bring their finest animals to compete in categories for cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, and horses. The standard of competition is exceptional — the culmination of months, and often years, of dedication.

From the majestic Shire horses and sleek dairy cows to the charming rare breeds and champion sheep, these displays remind us of the incredible skill and care that go into British farming. Visitors can stroll through the livestock rings, meet the animals, and chat to the exhibitors who are passionate about what they do.

In 2026, as part of our Royal anniversary, expect expanded livestock classes, special heritage displays, and even more opportunities for visitors to learn about Cheshire’s proud agricultural story.

2. The Equestrian Spectacle

Horses have always been a highlight at the Show, and the 2026 event will be no exception. The equestrian rings will host everything from show jumping and dressage to working hunter and heavy horse displays, celebrating the strength, grace, and partnership between horse and rider.

One of the most anticipated moments is always the Grand Parade, where the finest animals and prize winners take a final lap in front of cheering crowds — a scene that perfectly captures the pride and pageantry of the Show.

3. The Taste of Cheshire – Food, Drink & Local Produce

If there’s one thing our visitors can’t resist, it’s the incredible Food Village. With stalls bursting with local produce, artisan delicacies, and culinary creativity, this part of the Show is a feast for all the senses.

Taste award‑winning cheeses (naturally, it’s Cheshire!), freshly baked bread, local honey, cured meats, craft gins, and luxury ice creams — all made with love by regional producers. Cookery demonstrations from leading local chefs will return in 2026, giving visitors the chance to pick up new ideas while enjoying live tastings and entertainment.

The anniversary year will also feature “Ten Years Royal” signature dishes, created especially for the celebration using the finest Cheshire ingredients. Food lovers won’t want to miss it.

4. Family Fun and Entertainment for All Ages

The Royal Cheshire County Show is designed with families in mind. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, you’ll find something new around every corner.

Children can enjoy hands‑on animal encounters, meet friendly farm animals, and learn where their food comes from in the educational zones. The traditional funfair offers rides and games that bring smiles to faces young and old, while craft tents and creative workshops keep little hands busy.

Meanwhile, the Main Arena offers thrilling displays throughout the day — from daring stunt riders and dog agility shows to falconry, music, and dance performances. There’s never a dull moment.

In 2026, expect some extra‑special anniversary entertainment, including headline acts, heritage parades, and a few surprise appearances to mark the Royal decade.

5. Rural Skills and Countryside Traditions

One of the Show’s great strengths is how it keeps rural skills alive and thriving. Each year, visitors can see demonstrations of sheep shearing, falconry, fly fishing, dry‑stone walling, and more — crafts that connect us to centuries of countryside life.

The Cheshire WI and rural craft marquees are always a favourite stop, showcasing everything from quilting and preserves to floral displays and home baking. It’s a reminder that the countryside’s creativity is every bit as vibrant as its farming tradition.

6. Music, Culture, and Community Spirit

The Royal Cheshire County Show is as much about people as it is about produce. Local choirs, brass bands, and dance groups perform throughout the showground, creating an atmosphere that feels like a true community celebration.

It’s also a time when towns and villages from across Cheshire come together — schools, clubs, and societies — all taking part in what has become a beloved annual tradition. Whether you’re from the heart of Chester or the rolling hills of Macclesfield, the Show is a chance to celebrate what makes Cheshire so special.

A Decade of Royal Status – What It Means

When the Show was granted its Royal title in 2016, it was more than a new name — it was an acknowledgment of the Show’s outstanding contribution to British rural life. The honour recognised the Show’s long‑standing commitment to agriculture, education, and community involvement.

For the organisers, volunteers, exhibitors, and supporters who make the event possible, the title represents pride and purpose. It reminds us that what happens in those two days each June carries forward generations of effort, excellence, and love for the land.

Ten years on, the Royal title still inspires everything we do — from maintaining the highest standards in our competitions, to welcoming new audiences and showcasing the best of Cheshire on a national stage.

Why Visit in 2026?

There’s always something magical about Show week, but the 2026 Royal Cheshire County Show will be a year like no other. Here’s why:

• Celebrate a Major Milestone – Join us in marking ten years since becoming the Royal Cheshire County Show. Expect special anniversary events, commemorative displays, and a few surprises throughout the showground.
• Experience the Best of Cheshire – From award‑winning produce to champion livestock, every aspect of the county’s rural life will be represented in full.
• Family Fun for Everyone – With entertainment for all ages, it’s the perfect summer day out for families, couples, and groups of friends.
• Support Local Communities – Every ticket helps fund the Cheshire Agricultural Society and its educational work in promoting sustainable farming and rural careers.
• Make Lasting Memories – Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, you’ll leave with memories that last a lifetime — the laughter of children, the roar of the Grand Parade crowd, the taste of local food, and the simple joy of a day in the countryside.

Planning Your Visit

Dates:
The Royal Cheshire County Show 2026 will take place across two days in mid‑June at our permanent showground in Tabley, near Knutsford.

Tickets:
Advance tickets will be available online at royalcheshireshow.org, with early bird discounts and family packages. Entry for under‑fives remains free.

Getting There:
The showground is conveniently located near major routes (M6, M56, and A556), with clear signage and dedicated parking areas. Shuttle services operate from Knutsford and nearby transport hubs.

Accessibility:
The event is fully accessible, with mobility parking, paved walkways, and assistance points throughout the site.

What to Bring:
Comfortable footwear, weather‑ready clothing, a hat and sunscreen (or a raincoat!), and plenty of enthusiasm.

Food & Facilities:
There are food courts, picnic areas, first aid points, and rest zones across the site — everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable day.

A Show for the Future

As we look to 2026 and beyond, the Royal Cheshire County Show remains committed to celebrating agriculture while embracing the future. Sustainability, education, and innovation are at the heart of our plans.

Expect to see new initiatives that highlight environmental farming practices, renewable energy, and young farmer development — all ensuring that the Show continues to inspire future generations.

The next decade promises even greater opportunities to celebrate Cheshire’s countryside while addressing the challenges and opportunities of modern farming. The Show will continue to evolve, but it will always stay true to its roots: a place where community, countryside, and celebration come together.

Join the Celebration

Whether you’ve been coming for years or are planning your very first visit, 2026 is the perfect year to experience the Royal Cheshire County Show.

Ten years of Royal status isn’t just an anniversary — it’s a celebration of all that makes the Show, and Cheshire itself, so special: our farmers, our food, our families, and our future.

So, mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to be part of something truly memorable. Join us at Tabley in June 2026 as we celebrate “Ten Years Royal” — a decade of distinction, dedication, and delight at the heart of the Cheshire countryside.

We can’t wait to welcome you!

For updates, tickets, and show announcements, visit: www.royalcheshireshow.org
Follow us on social media for behind‑the‑scenes stories, competition news, and a sneak peek at what’s in store for 2026.

Here’s to another decade of excellence — and to making 2026 the most unforgettable Royal Cheshire County Show yet.