BY ALLISON LEE
The Ryedale Show is held annually on the last Tuesday in July; this year, it fell on the 28th. Established in 1855, it is a traditional agricultural show run for the farming and local communities, and it truly has something to offer everyone.
Though much smaller than the Great Yorkshire Show in Harrogate, Ryedale remains highly popular. Set against the picturesque Duncombe Park estate in Helmsley, the show can accommodate thousands of visitors. In 2025, the Ryedale Show returned to Helmsley after a 60-year absence, having previously been held at Welburn Park near Kirbymoorside. The relocation was necessary to address growing safety concerns and secure the show’s future. Since its founding in 1855, the show has rotated among sites in Pickering, Kirbymoorside and Helmsley.
As the show continues to grow in popularity year on year, the trustees are committed to securing a safe venue for the long term. Duncombe Park offers parking close to the show field and level access, making it easier for those with mobility issues and young children to enjoy the day.
This was my first visit to the Ryedale Show, so I cannot compare it to past venues. However, I can say that Duncombe Park provides a beautiful setting, with the stunning historic house as a backdrop and magnificent views stretching across the valley towards the moors.
Livestock lies at the heart of the Ryedale Show, with a full programme of competitive classes covering cattle, sheep, pigs and goats. From pedigree breeding stock to young-handler classes, the show celebrates the skill, dedication and tradition of British farming, offering something of interest to exhibitors and visitors alike.
The Produce and Crafts Section is one of the show’s most popular and diverse areas, celebrating traditional countryside skills such as dry-stone walling, homegrown produce, baking, crafts, art and photography. Whether you’re a keen gardener, baker, photographer, artist or craft enthusiast, this section offers a chance to showcase your talents and compete for a range of trophies and prizes.
The Horse and Pony Section is a major feature of the show, with a full day of competition and displays across multiple rings. It includes a wide range of classes, from in-hand and ridden to working hunter and driving, and attracts competitors from across the region and beyond. With eight rings operating throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a continuous programme of equestrian activity, showcasing quality horses and ponies, skilled horsemanship and traditional showing classes.
The Fun Dog Show is a friendly, light-hearted part of the event, giving dogs of all shapes, sizes and personalities the chance to take part. Held in the Dog Ring, it is designed to be open and enjoyable for everyone, ensuring all dogs have the opportunity to compete. Whether your dog is beautifully behaved, full of character, wonderfully scruffy, or simply loves being the centre of attention, there are plenty of chances to join in. The event was organised by Pickering Pet Shop and sponsored by Ryedale Vets. Classes included Most Handsome Boy, Prettiest Girl, Dog Most Like Their Owner, and Best Sausage Catcher, to name a few. I did wonder whether my four hounds might have won a few prizes had I brought them along.
The Vintage Machinery Section is another popular attraction and one my husband particularly enjoyed. It celebrates the tractors, implements and engines that have played such an important role in farming history. Visitors can see a fascinating display of agricultural machinery spanning different eras, from beautifully restored tractors to working stationary engines and traditional implements.
This year’s weather was perfect for the show, with a mix of cloud, sun and breeze helping to keep both animals and visitors cool, and making the walk around the grounds more bearable at the height of summer.
The Ryedale Show was a hit with my husband and me, and we will certainly be visiting again next year!
Allison Lee is a smallholder from North Yorkshire who has written for the Yorkshire Times and other publications. Her website can be accessed here.