Royal Bath and West Show 2026 set to take place in May

The Royal Bath & West Show will be held at The Showground in Shepton Mallet from May 28 to 30.

It promises three full days of competitions, displays, and experiences, bringing together farmers, competitors and visitors from across the country.

Entries are now open for many of the show’s competition categories, with full details and deadlines available at bathandwest.com/royal-bath-and-west-show/competitions.

Stock classes will feature cattle, sheep and pigs, with exhibitors showcasing top genetics.

Emily Timney, head of events, said: "Livestock has always been a cornerstone of the show.

"These competitions are a real celebration of the dedication and expertise within the industry, while also providing a wonderful shop window connecting farming and the general public."

Sheep shearing competitions will open in March.

Equine enthusiasts can look forward to pony club games, heavy horses, carriage driving and showing classes.

Show jumping entries open in mid-March, with £12,350 in prize money on offer.

There will be 32 horse of the year show qualifiers, including veteran horse, ridden coloured, show hunter pony, miniature horse, ridden hunter, mountain and moorland ridden and shire horse classes.

Visitors can enjoy the popular bees and honey show, which returns alongside competitive egg classes.

The farriery section highlights craftsmanship and precision through its shoeing classes.

The cider, perry and apple juice competition will once again see entries judged by a panel of expert judges and industry professionals.

Creative visitors are invited to enter the show’s art and floral art competitions.

Ms Timney said: "The arts and horticulture sections bring a completely different dimension to the show. It’s always inspiring to see the creativity and detail that goes into every entry."

Camping tickets are available for visitors who want to stay on-site and enjoy all that the event has to offer, including evening entertainment.

Discounted ticket rates are available until Wednesday, May 27, and can be purchased at bathandwest.com/royal-bath-and-west-show/visitors/tickets.

Art entries close on Thursday, April 23.

Beef cattle, pigs, and sheep entries close on Thursday, April 16, with dairy cattle closing on Thursday, May 7.

Entries for bees and honey close on Monday, May 4, eggs on Tuesday, May 12, and cider on Thursday, May 7.

Floral art entries close on Thursday, April 30.

Sheep shearing entries must be submitted by Thursday, May 14.

Entries for show jumping close on Thursday, May 14, with other horse classes closing by Tuesday, April 28.