Experience Dorset County Show at Dorchester Showground on the first weekend of September. One of the county's biggest annual events, the show celebrates Dorset's farming, food and countryside with livestock competitions, equestrian displays, local food and drink, family entertainment, shopping, rural demonstrations and over 450 trade stands. Find event dates, ticket information and everything you need to plan your visit to this much-loved Dorset tradition.
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Saturday 5th September 2026 - Sunday 6th September 2026
Dorset County Show 2027 | Dorset Events 2027 | Dorset Lifestyle
Dorset County Show 2027
About
Dorset County Show is Dorset's biggest celebration of agriculture, food and rural life. Held every September near Dorchester, this two-day event showcases the very best of the county, with livestock competitions, equestrian displays, local food producers, countryside demonstrations, family entertainment and hundreds of trade stands. Dating back more than 175 years, it remains one of Dorset's most popular annual events.
Whilst details for the 2027 event are yet to be released, here is the 2026 information for reference
Admission and Opening Times
Paid event - Advance adult, child and family tickets are available, with discounted early bird prices before the show. Camping tickets are also available. Children under 5 go free.
Gates open 8:30am - 6:00pm each day, with the Music Stage continuing until 11:00pm on Saturday.
Event Highlights
Although individual attractions and performers have not been confirmed for 2027, Dorset County Show traditionally includes:
Getting to Dorset County Show
Previous shows have taken place at Dorchester Showground, with road signs directing visitors towards the public parking areas.
The 2026 event offered free parking and shuttle buses from Dorchester, Poundbury and Dorchester South railway station. These arrangements have not yet been confirmed for 2027 and should be checked before travelling.
Accessibility, parking, public transport and shuttle-bus information will be added when the organiser publishes its 2027 visitor guidance.
Can Dogs Attend Dorset County Show?
Well-behaved dogs were permitted at the 2026 show when kept on non-extendable leads, although they were excluded from certain livestock and food areas. Visitors should wait for the official 2027 policy before planning to bring a dog.
When Will Dorset County Show 2027 Tickets Go on Sale?
A ticket-release date has not been announced.
Previous shows have offered discounted tickets at different stages, with prices increasing closer to the event. Camping and family options have also been available, but their return has not yet been confirmed.
We recommend checking the official Dorset County Show website for announcements.
Details:
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