Pictures: Bumper crowds celebrate sunshine at this year’s Devon County Show
Clear blue skies and high foot traffic marked a busy weekend for the Devon County Show at the Westpoint showground; as trade avenues packed out and family entertainment took over the arena
Large crowds filled the Westpoint Showground over the weekend (May 21-23) for the annual three-day Devon showpiece, the Devon County Show.
The agricultural event, organized by the Devon County Agricultural Association (DCAA), has been running since 1872 to support the local farming economy and the countryside.
Attendees experienced clear blue skies and warm sunshine on Friday, with one visitor noting that it was "a lovely traditional agricultural show" and adding that they "can’t wait for next year!"
Foot traffic remained high across the 150-acre site as visitors packed the trade avenues.
Stalls along the main walkways, including clothing retailers like the Silverzone Collection, received steady interest from the public.
Food and drink vendors saw consistent lines throughout the day, with large queues forming at the central fish and chips outlets.
Outdoor living displays, featuring modern quad bikes and summer lifestyle equipment, also drew high numbers of onlookers.
The livestock pavilions remained the focal point for agricultural competitors on Friday afternoon.
Handlers in traditional white coats paraded beef cattle in front of the Cornish Mutual pavilion, where judges evaluated entries based on strict breed standards.
In the sheep sections, breeders presented a wide variety of entries.
Notable livestock on display included the wool-heavy Valais Blacknose sheep from the Brendon Hill flock, alongside curly-coated grey and black-faced breeds.
In the main arena, the turf was cleared for the afternoon's competitive showjumping events, drawing crowds to the ringside barriers to watch riders tackle the green and white course.
Management of the livestock areas and general showground stewarding was assisted throughout the day by students from Bicton College.
Scheduled features for the 2026 event included an appearance by television presenter Martin Clunes to open the Heavy Horse Festival, a guest appearance by television personality Farmer Will Young on Saturday, and the introduction of a new Community Growing Hub led by horticulturist Kenny Raybould.
The three-day event also received a royal visit on its opening day, Thursday, May 21st.
Her Royal Highness Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, toured the Clyst St Mary showground to meet with local exhibitors, volunteers, and members of the Young Farmers' Club.