Devon County Show 2025 hailed as “record-breaker”

The 2025 Devon County Show has been described as a potential “record breaker” after thousands of visitors flocked to the showground over its three-day run.

Blessed with clear skies and spring sunshine, organisers say this year’s show attracted strong crowds and record breaking advance ticket sales.

“The weather was truly on our side,” said Show Manager Lisa Moore. 

“Blue skies and warm spring sunshine created the perfect atmosphere, ensuring a seamless setup and boosting public confidence, leading to record breaking advance ticket sales.”

The show, known for its strong agricultural roots, hosted hundreds of livestock and equine competitions, including the introduction of a fancy dress cattle class held on Saturday.

Each day brought new highlights. 

On Thursday, actor Martin Clunes launched the Heavy Horse Festival and helped unveil new features including the first ever Alpaca Café, a Family Fun Zone, and the Engage Stage, a partnership with BBC Devon to showcase local performers.

Friday saw a visit from Show President, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, who toured the showground and met staff and volunteers. 

One of her own horses, a Suffolk Punch, took first place in its class.

Meanwhile, farming personality Kaleb Cooper hosted a lively Q&A with younger audiences in the Young Farmers’ Club area, followed by a book signing and a visit to the agricultural displays.

On Saturday, children entered for free as part of the event’s popular family day. 

Television presenter Kirstie Allsopp appeared at the Crafts and Flowers Pavilion for a well-attended Q&A session.

Transport and traffic were also praised, with thousands of attendees arriving via public transport, part of an ongoing effort to reduce congestion and support environmental goals.

Early figures suggest the 2025 show could surpass the 2023 attendance of 97,000 people.

“We are absolutely delighted with the outcome and, as always, extend our deepest gratitude to the incredible volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to making this show the remarkable event that it is,” Ms Moore said.

“We also want to thank each and every visitor who purchased a ticket. As a charity, all profits from the show go directly toward supporting the rural community.”