Cotswolds

The Cotswold Show & Food Festival 2026: A Perfect Summer Day Out in the Heart of the Cotswolds

The Cotswold Show & Food Festival 2026: A Perfect Summer Day Out in the Heart of the Cotswolds

Mark your calendars for 4th & 5th July 2026 as the renowned Cotswold Show & Food Festival returns to the beautiful grounds of Cirencester Park. Celebrating the very best of countryside life, food, farming, family entertainment, and rural traditions, this much-loved event continues to attract visitors from across the UK.

Held under the theme "Where Town Meets Country," the festival offers an unforgettable weekend packed with spectacular arena displays, artisan food and drink, shopping, animal attractions, countryside activities, and entertainment for all ages. Whether you're a food enthusiast, dog lover, countryside supporter, or simply looking for a fantastic family day out, the Cotswold Show & Food Festival promises something for everyone.

What Makes the Cotswold Show Special?

Held over two days in early July, the show combines traditional country pursuits with modern family entertainment. Visitors can enjoy:

  • Thrilling arena displays
  • Animal demonstrations
  • A dedicated World of Dogs area
  • Food halls and artisan producers
  • Rural crafts and countryside skills
  • Shopping from hundreds of exhibitors
  • Children's activities and fairground attractions

With hundreds of attractions spread across the showground, there is genuinely something for every age group.

Exciting Arena Attractions

One of the biggest draws of the show is its action-packed arena programme. Recent attractions have included:

  • Monster truck displays
  • Racing camels
  • Pony scurry competitions
  • Dog and sheep demonstrations
  • Farm machinery showcases
  • Gundog displays
  • Dog agility competitions

These events provide a mix of excitement, education, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the day.

A Food Festival Worth Visiting

Food lovers are well catered for at the event's popular food festival. Visitors can browse a wide range of local and regional produce, sample artisan products, and enjoy freshly prepared food from numerous vendors. The food hall has become one of the show's most popular attractions, showcasing the best of countryside cuisine and local craftsmanship.

A Paradise for Dog Lovers

The World of Dogs area is a favourite among visitors and their four-legged companions. Activities often include:

  • Dog agility demonstrations
  • Terrier and lurcher events
  • Family dog shows
  • Gundog activities
  • Breed showcases

Dogs are welcome at the event, provided they remain on fixed leads, making the show a genuinely pet-friendly day out.

Shopping and Local Businesses

The show features hundreds of trade stands offering everything from handcrafted gifts and homewares to countryside equipment, clothing, food products, and artwork. For businesses, the event provides access to thousands of engaged visitors each year, making it one of the region's premier exhibition opportunities.

Family-Friendly Entertainment

Families can enjoy a wide variety of attractions designed specifically for children, including fairground rides, educational countryside experiences, interactive displays, and animal encounters. The event's welcoming atmosphere makes it ideal for multi-generational visits, with activities suitable for grandparents, parents, and children alike.

Planning Your Visit

The Cotswold Show takes place in the beautiful surroundings of Cirencester Park near Cirencester. Visitors benefit from extensive parking facilities, accessibility support, dog-friendly policies, and easy access from the town centre. The event also offers disabled parking and mobility assistance services to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.

Why You Should Attend

The Cotswold Show & Food Festival is much more than a traditional country fair. It is a celebration of rural life, local food, family entertainment, and community spirit. Whether you're passionate about farming, interested in countryside traditions, searching for a memorable family day out, or simply looking to experience the charm of the Cotswolds, this event offers an unforgettable experience.

For more information, tickets, and event updates, visit Cotswold Show & Food Festival.

For all the latest on what’s happening in the Cotswolds, check out What’sOn?XL in CotswoldXL Magazine. 

See Related Articles & Features

issue 28

See Our Latest Issue of the Magazine.

See great content for this months digital magazine.

read now
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.