Royal Isle Of Wight County Show Celebrates Landmark 125th Event

The Royal Isle of Wight County Show is celebrating a major milestone this weekend as it marks its 125th event.

Taking place on 11 and 12 July at the showground in Northwood, this year's show will celebrate more than 140 years of agricultural heritage, Royal connections and community spirit.

The show was founded in 1882 by the Royal Isle of Wight Agricultural Society under the patronage of Queen Victoria, who was a keen livestock keeper and regularly entered competitions herself.

The Royal connection continued over the years, with one show even being rescheduled in 1885 to avoid clashing with the wedding of Princess Beatrice.

Like many long-running events, the County Show has faced its share of challenges.

It was cancelled during both World Wars, disrupted by outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease and, more recently, paused during the Covid pandemic.

Despite those setbacks, the event has continued to grow.

After purchasing its own showground at Nine Acres in 1922, it moved to its current home in Northwood in 1967, with the site officially opened by Earl Mountbatten of Burma.

Recent years have seen attractions including the Household Cavalry, the Queen's Colour Squadron, Grand National legend Red Rum and the Red Devils parachute display team.

This year's event promises a mix of traditional favourites, livestock competitions and family entertainment, alongside a new attraction – camel racing.

As part of the 125th celebrations, organisers have also received funding from Creative Island's Past Futures – A People's History of the Isle of Wight project, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, to help preserve and share the show's rich history.

The Royal Isle of Wight County Show takes place on Friday and Saturday.

Advance adult tickets cost £12.50, while children under 16 can attend free with a paying adult.