By IW Observer.co.uk
How about a fab weekend of animals, activities and entertainment? The Royal Isle of Wight County Show is back next weekend (June 25 and 26). And it’s free for under-16s who come along with a paying adult.
Did you go to the show in 2019? You might remember the Household Cavalry performance, when the horses and their riders staged the most magical show. This year, it’s the turn of the Queen’s Colour Squadron. Hot from playing their part at the Jubilee, the Royal Air Force’s ceremonial unit will be continuing the celebrations by performing their world-famous drill display in the show’s Main Ring.
Have you ever been to a farm? If not, this is a chance to get up close to lots of animals at the show farm. You can see a Guernsey cow being milked, have a go at herding a pig and meet an alpaca. And there are falconry displays where you can watch the birds of prey fly above your head.
The show ground, in Northwood, has a seven-acre woodland that will be home to some traditional craft-making activities. There’s the chance to try spoon-whittling, charcoal-making and hurdle-making. Parents can cool off at the woodland bar with some traditional craft beers.
Bring your pooch and take part in the dog show on Sunday (£2 to enter). Categories include ‘dog most like its owner’ and ‘the waggiest tail’. All dogs are welcome, along with their well-behaved owners! And kids can do the Sheepdog Trail to find Wool-i-am and his flock of sheep hiding around the show ground, the chance to win family tickets to Monkey Haven.
Another part of the show ground to explore is the activists area. Here you’ll find trail bike jumping displays and the Isle of Wight Young Farmers hosting a wellie-wanging competition. There’s a radio controlled car course to go on and some vintage fairground rides and stalls.
An adult day ticket is £10.50 online (£12.50 on the gate) or an adult weekend ticket is £15 online (£20 on the gate). Under-16s are free with a paying adult.
For tickets and more information visit iwcountyshow.co.uk.
Isle of Wight Observer