Our guide to the Kent County Show 2025 at the Kent Showground in Detling, near Maidstone
Immerse yourself in country living with a weekend of farmers, farriers and food at one of Kent’s biggest summer events.
The Kent County Show is an annual three-day celebration of agriculture and it’s back at the Kent Showground, near Detling, this year for even more amazing animals and family activities.
The packed programme includes everything from local food producers and beautiful flower displays to canine agility courses and sheep shearing demonstrations.
While the animals are still the star attraction, with everything from livestock to camel shows, there’s also a whole host of things to see and do, including funfair rides, live music, food stalls, workshops, outdoor activities and vintage vehicles.
This summer, the show is even getting the royal seal of approval with a visit from the Duchess of Edinburgh on opening day.
It’s the first time that Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, who grew up in Brenchley, near Tunbridge Wells, and is a patron of the Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations (ASAO), has been to the event in 16 years.
Nikki Dorkings, general manager of the Kent County Agricultural Society, said: “It is an honour for us to welcome HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh back to the Kent County Show to see the incredible hard work, passion and dedication to country life that will be on display.”
There are countless things to enjoy at the show but, if you want to know where to start, here’s five things you won’t want to miss at this year’s Kent County Show…
LIVESTOCK: It’s a core part of the show, and a favourite amongst visitors. Hundreds of cows, sheep and goats of all sizes, shapes, and colours converge from across the South East and beyond with their handlers, competing to take home the prize for Best in Show.
FESTIVAL OF FOOD: New for 2025, be sure to take a stroll around the Festival of Food. A feast for all the senses, the mouth-watering festival is the place to be to discover delicious food and drink from artisan producers from across Kent and the surrounding areas.
EQUINE VILLAGE: The Equine Village is a stunning display of horses and riders competing in classes ranging from showjumping to in-hand showing, and not forgetting the incredible carriage driving in the Double Harness Scurry! No trip to the Equine Village is complete without stopping by to greet the gentle giants in our Heavy Horse Village.
WOODLAND AREA: When you’re looking for a moment away from the hustle and bustle, head for the shade and tranquillity of the woodland. This area showcases the skills and crafts of the forestry industry and is the perfect place to discover more of the county’s woodlands and the work needed to maintain and conserve them.
LIVING LAND VILLAGE: Visit the Living Land Village to learn more about food, farming and the environment through free interactive activities and workshops. Discover how food is produced in the Garden of England and catch the famous dancing sheep in the Sheep Show, returning in 2025 by popular demand.
The Kent County Show takes place from Friday, July 4 to Sunday, July 6 at the Kent Showground in Detling, near Maidstone. You can book tickets here.
Adult tickets cost £22 and child tickets cost £3 when booked in advance. You can also pay at the gate. Under 5s go free.
