Last weekend (6-8 June 2025), the South of England Agricultural Society hosted the 57th annual South of England Show at the South of England Showground in Ardingly, West Sussex.
The Society’s three-day flagship event offered something for everyone, from seasoned agricultural professionals to first-time showgoers discovering rural life. More than 200 attractions were on offer, including a packed schedule of livestock and equestrian competitions, countryside demonstrations, and interactive exhibits.
Livestock remained at the heart of the event, with over 900 entries across beef, dairy, sheep, pig, and goat classes. Alongside the judging, spectators learned about breed characteristics, farm practices, cuts of beef and mock auctions from industry professionals.
The Savills South of England Farming Technical Forum returned with a strong turnout, both in person and live streamed online. Centred on the theme “Harvesting Opportunity: The Modern Farming Mindset”, the discussion brought together a panel of farmers who explored how UK farmers are tackling challenges head-on to build productive, sustainable and profitable businesses.
The new Wildlife & Food Production area was designed for farmers, landowners and those within the agricultural community to speak to peers and experts about how they manage their land and to share best practice in supporting the environment and local landscapes. It was also an opportunity to inform the public on the work local farmers and organisations are doing to protect the land while producing high quality food. Organisations present included Ashdown Forest, The Woodland Trust, Innovation for Agriculture, CLM, Pasture for Life, Longbridge Regenerative and the Royal Agricultural Society for England who also hosted a drinks reception. Talks included ‘Unlocking the Value of Nature: Why Natural Capital Matter, ‘Soils’ and ‘South East Based Farming’.
Meanwhile, the Long Man Brewery Farmers’ Marquee served as a meeting point for industry professionals, with farmers, MP’s, representatives from the NFU, Defra, agricultural services, and rural businesses in attendance. NFU representatives Caroline Harriott (West Sussex Council Representative), Zoe Leach (Regional Director for the East of England), Nellie Budd (Redhill Branch Chair) and Andrew Strong (West Sussex Chair) met with local MP Mims Davies, local farmers and Shadow Defra Minister Dr Neil Hudson to discuss the key challenges facing farmers and growers. NFU Surrey Council Representative, member of the NFU’s national and regional crops boards, and President of Surrey Young Farmers Peter Knight was also presented with the Society’s Award of Honour by their 2025 President Sara Stonor in recognition of his work to support farming. Around 300 Young Farmers’ Club members from across the South East attended to compete and promote their organisation and its aims. And over 300 members of the farming community gathered on Saturday evening for the ever-popular Stockman’s Dinner.
For many, the Livestock Parade remains the pinnacle of the show. This year’s top honours included:
Livestock Championship Results – 2025:
- Supreme Sheep Champion – Beltex – Harriet Jackson
- Supreme Pig Champion – Welsh – Offham Teresa 42nd – Messrs Sargent, Wakeham-Dawson & Harmer
- Dairy Goat Champion – Nick Parr
- Supreme Dairy Champion – Ayrshire – Wigboro Wick Hawaiian Helena 2nd – John Smith
- Supreme Beef Champion – Simmental – Fircovert Peacock – Paul Gunther
- Super Cow – Ayrshire – Wigboro Wick Hawaiian Helena 2nd – John Smith
- Beef Male Champion – Simmental – Fircovert Peacock – Paul Gunther
- Beef Female Champion – Charolais – Drumshane Urbangirl – Darren Knox
Beyond the competition, the Discover the Countryside area invited children and adults alike to learn about the milking process and then make their own smoothie with locally produced milk donated by the Cool Cow Co. The “Story of Wool” explained the journey of wool from shearing to traditional spinning and weaving.
Food and drink were another major draw, with a bustling Food Hall, the Grape & Grain Walk offering regional wines and beers, and Gin Alley showcasing local distilleries. The Made in Sussex area allowed visitors to browse artisan crafts, food, drink, and countryside-inspired gifts from across the county.
Equestrian highlights included showjumping, Scurry Driving, the ever-popular Shetland Pony Grand National, and heavy horse displays. ‘Beyond the Stable Door’ also gave visitors a behind-the-scenes look at all things equestrian, with farriers and professionals hosting live talks and demonstrations.
Elsewhere, the Vintage Agricultural Machinery Ring, traditional woodland crafts, falconry, axemen, and search and rescue dog displays brought the countryside to life. A medieval re-enactment zone offered a look at rural life through the ages, while the British Army village provided hands-on, educational experiences.
Children were entertained by the Sheep Show, mini steam train rides, cookery workshops, and the funfair, while the much-loved children’s character Bluey made special appearances on the Saturday.
Gardening enthusiasts found plenty to enjoy too, with standout garden design competition entries, floral displays, and the ever-popular Bees & Honey Marquee, where live bee demonstrations accompanied tastings of local honey.
This year’s show also welcomed Little Gate Supported Employment as the Society’s 2025 Charity of the Year. Based in Sussex, Little Gate helps people with learning disabilities and autism find paid employment through training in catering, horticulture, land management and woodland skills on its 46-acre site.
Corrie Ince, Show Director for the South of England Agricultural Society, said:
“The South of England Show is where agriculture and country life meets the wider public. Whether you’re a livestock breeder, a land-based college student, or a family taking part in one of the many interactive experiences, this event brings people closer to farming in a meaningful way. We’re incredibly proud to provide a space that celebrates rural excellence and helps build understanding and trust between the farming sector and the public.”
The Society is now turning its attention to its next show – the Autumn Show & Horse Trials on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th September 2025. Visitors can watch riders compete in the showjumping, dressage, and cross-country phases, and discover a plethora of countryside sports, displays, and ‘have-a-go’ activities, all designed to celebrate the joys of the countryside, as well as canine and equestrian pursuits. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.seas.org.uk.
