Every September, the fields at Lane Farm in Crooklands come alive with tractors, tweed and thousands of visitors, and 2026 is no exception. The Westmorland County Show returns on Wednesday 9 and Thursday 10 September, marking the Westmorland County Agricultural Society’s 227th year of celebrating farming, food and rural life on the edge of the Lake District, just a short drive from Kendal.
If you’ve never been, or you’re a regular looking for what’s new this year, here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the Westmorland County Show?
Founded in 1799, the Westmorland County Agricultural Society has been putting on this show for well over two centuries, and it’s grown into one of the UK’s best-loved agricultural events. Over 30,000 visitors pass through the gates each year for a packed programme of livestock classes, entertainment and local produce — all set against a backdrop of fells and farmland.
At its heart, this is a show about the land: cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, alpacas, and heavy and light horses all take to the rings for competitive judging, alongside dog shows, forestry displays and traditional Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling.
Getting There
- Where: Westmorland County Showground, Lane Farm, Crooklands, LA7 7NH
- When: Wednesday 9 – Thursday 10 September 2026
- Gates: 8am–6pm both days
- Parking: Free onsite parking
- Tickets: Under 5s go free, with carer tickets available on request
The showground sits just off the A65 near Kendal, making it an easy trip whether you’re staying in town or exploring further afield in the Lakes.
New for 2026: The Westmorland Hub
This year sees the launch of the Westmorland Hub, a new space for guest speakers and open discussions running throughout both show days. Expect contributions from names like Herdy UK, the NFU and RABI, covering everything from farming life to the future of the countryside, a chance to hear directly from the people shaping rural Cumbria.
Rugby, Ribbons and Rosettes
Wednesday afternoon brings the return of the Rugby 7s competition in the main ring, following its popular debut last year — expect fast-paced, friendly local rivalry and a great atmosphere for spectators. Throughout both days, the show ring plays host to the serious business of livestock judging, where farmers from across Cumbria and beyond compete for top honours in cattle, sheep and equine classes.
A Food Hall Worth the Trip Alone
For anyone who loves good food, the Food Hall is a highlight in its own right. It’s one of the largest locally sourced food halls in the North West, with stalls selling bread, jam, chutney, cakes, gin, meat, fish and plenty more to take home or tuck into on the day.
Beyond the food hall, browse the Women’s Institute Marquee, watch rural craft demonstrations, and explore over 400 trade stands covering everything from country clothing to farm machinery.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
Whether you’re a lifelong farming family or a first-time visitor curious about where your food comes from, the Westmorland County Show offers a genuine, unpolished slice of Cumbrian rural life, the kind of day out that’s as much about community as it is about competition. Bring wellies, bring an appetite, and bring a bit of time, because there’s a lot of ground to cover.
Plan your visit: Tickets and full details are available at westmorlandshow.co.uk.
