Crowds flock to Lustleigh for a scorching Bank Holiday Show

The village of Lustleigh basked in glorious sunshine on Bank Holiday Monday, August 25th, as crowds turned out in force for the annual Lustleigh Summer Show - a tradition that has been bringing the community together since 1887.

This year’s event offered something for everyone, blending modern entertainment with time-honoured favourites. Spectators were wowed by an action-packed parkour vs. pedal power display, while traditional activities like sideshows and the famous greasy pole challenge drew their usual enthusiastic participants.

Show Chairman Andrew Thompson said: "It's a privilege to have a show that keeps delighting people every year with our mix of traditional and modern. We love sharing our beautiful Dartmoor village with crowds from across the county and across the country every year."

One of the day’s highlights was the popular Lustleigh 10k, which saw Sam Husband of Greenbow Running Club take first place with a time of 39:23. The fastest female runner was Alice Warwick-James of Holbeton Harriers, finishing in 45:16.

Classic car enthusiasts were treated to an impressive display of more than 60 vintage cars and tractors, while the fiercely contested tug-of-war was won by the team from the Wreyland area of the village.

The Lustleigh Garden Society once again hosted its much-loved horticultural show, a cornerstone of the event, showcasing local gardening talent. Families also enjoyed activities ranging from a climbing wall to circus skills workshops, ensuring there was something for every age group.

Social media lit up after the event, with attendees praising the atmosphere, organisation, and the perfect summer weather. One visitor summed it up on Facebook: “A perfect day out - great fun for all the family and such a wonderful village feel.”

The Lustleigh Summer Show has been a mainstay of the Dartmoor social calendar for more than 135 years, originally starting as a village fête and growing into one of the region’s most anticipated summer events.

Organisers have already confirmed that next year’s show will return on Bank Holiday Monday, August 31, 2026, promising another unforgettable celebration of community spirit and summer fun.