Hundreds flock to Highclere Castle – setting of Downton Abbey – for the return of the annual Highclere Show
Hundreds of visitors were treated to music, food, animals, games and even Knights of Middle England as the Highclere Show returned at the weekend.
Taking place in the picturesque grounds of Highclere Castle – now well-known as Downton Abbey – it proved the perfect start to the half-term for many families who flocked to the North Hampshire village for the annual show.
Taking place throughout Saturday and Sunday, the main arena included displays from the Knights of Middle England, Paws for Thought Dog Display Team, Simulated Coursing and The Horndean Band.
Organiser of the Highclere Show, Jerome Roberts, said he was "overjoyed by the weekend’s turnout". He added: “What a great weekend it’s been at Highclere! We’re thrilled so many of you celebrated with us and got involved in the amazing features and performances.
"It’s been fantastic to see so many of you getting involved and enjoying the celebratory atmosphere. From the incredible Main Arena performances to the more hands on activities over at the Kids Zone and the British Falconry & Raptor Fair, hundreds of you got involved, joined in the fun and took away some fantastic memories.
"We thank each and every one of you who came and celebrated with us at the weekend and we can’t wait to be bring the event back to Highclere again next year!”
There was also a first appearance at the show for the British Falconry and Raptor Fair, which ensured a weekend full of displays from some of the country’s leading falconers, as well as a variety of exhibitions.
The Folk Roots Festival included sets from some of the country’s well-known folk, jazz and blues musicians and gave a musical interlude to the weekend’s festivities.
And to make sure everyone remained well fed and watered throughout the weekend, there was the Food Festival and chefs demonstration area.
To keep the little ones occupied there was also a dedicated kids zone, with balloon modelling, face painting, gold-panning and a Punch and Judy show.
There were also trampolines, bouncy castles, crossbows and catapults for anyone who needed to burn off any excess energy.
Have-a-go events and a clay shooting challenge also gave those with a competitive streak a little friendly competition, while the rural craft area offered demonstrations in stick-making and willow-weaving.
And there was the Newbury Weekly News Craft Marquee Tent, which showcased a range of beautiful homewares, unusual and handmade items, that proved very popular as gifts not found on the high street.
