About the South Suffolk Show
Organised by the South Suffolk Agricultural Association, The South Suffolk Show is regarded by many as one of the leading one-day agricultural shows in the eastern region. Held annually on the 2nd Sunday in May, and now in its 135th year, the ‘South Suffolk’ offers a fun-filled day in the great outdoors for all the family.
Throughout the 95 acre showground, we strive to entertain all our visitors whether they be animal lovers or petrol heads, fans of craft or thrill seekers, shopaholics or foodies. Traditionally we have enjoyed crowds in the region of 10 – 12,000 (and their dogs*) flocking to see the show’s attractions including headline acts, rural displays, horse and livestock classes, farm machinery new and old, traditional fairground rides and a plethora of trade stands. A picnic area is provided for visitors bringing sustenance with them, or alternatively the show has a public bar serving local ales, and an appetising array of local catering units sited around the showground. Gates open at 8:30am, with the Countryside Ring and Grand Ring Programmes commencing at 9.30 am and 10.00am respectively.
*Well behaved dogs are welcome to accompany their owners to the show, but should be kept on a lead at all times and owners must clear up any mess after them, and please do not leave them in the car.
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Established 1888
1888 saw the first South Suffolk Show, although then known as ‘The Wickhambrook & District Filly and Colt Show’, which was formed by W. Cuthbert Quilter MP who would ride his stallion around his constituency serving the local mares. It was the offspring of the MP’s stallion which would then be judged at the show the following year. The show has run every year since its initial setup, with just a handful of exceptions, and over the years grew to incorporate all the other elements of an agricultural show, eventually changing its name to reflect its wider content. The location of the South Suffolk Show has also changed over the years, utilizing venues across Suffolk such as Melford Hall, Ickworth Park, Kentwell Hall, Hardwick Heath in Bury St Edmunds and Tut Hill in Fornham All Saints. In more recent years the location of the show has moved to its present more northerly venue towards the Suffolk Norfolk border, but the name has stuck!
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Attractions
In addition to the headline act there is always plenty to see and do throughout the show including wood carvers in action, farriers in the forge, birds of prey on the wing, gun dogs working, terriers racing and vintage tractors on show, not to mention the Ferretworld Roadshow who will be looking for volunteers young and old to race against their ferrets!
Horses
The show has a vast array of equine classes, ranging from showjumping, working hunters, side saddle and private driving, along with numerous in-hand and ridden showing classes for hunters, coloureds, hacks, cobs, riding horses, donkeys, and especially for the county’s favourite; the Suffolk Heavy Horses. Many of the classes are qualifiers for regional and national shows.
Livestock
The livestock section of the show has a great range of very well supported classes for cattle, sheep and pigs, with many of the show’s champions going on to be County and even National Champions. The show also features a display of poultry, presented by Colchester Poultry Club.
Trade Stands
Over 150 trade stands exhibit at the show, ranging from large and light agricultural stands, car dealerships, country clothing and accessories, schools, colleges, plants and garden furnishings, alongside an Art and Craft Tent and a Shopping Marquee both packed with unique creations, as well as a Food Hall full of tempting treats.
