The Lincolnshire Show (Lincolnshire Show)

Member Name: donkeykong

Product:	Lincolnshire Show
Date:	07/05/09 (65 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Very interesting

Disadvantages: June often brings rain

The Lincolnshire Show is the County Show for the magnificent and diverse county of Lincolnshire, as the name implies. Organised by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, it is predominantly an agricultural show, but like the county, it is somewhat diverse. The 125th Lincolnshire Show will be held on Wednesday 24th and Thursday 25th June this year (2009), and as it is celebrating a significant anniversary, this year should be more interesting than usual, with Princess Anne due to be in attendance.
The extent of the 'agricultural' interest regarding the event has decreased over recent years. Many tractor dealers and such like still come as exhibitors, but their main business has been transferred to other events dedicated to agriculture. You do not have to be a farmer to enjoy these Big Boys' Toys, and anyone can admire the huge machines of modern agriculture. Adjoining are numerous car dealers, from Ford to Bentley, and if you are looking for a new vehicle, a good discount can be achieved on the show days.
The livestock section is one of the key attractions at the event. Many magnificent animals are displayed, including the Lincolnshire Longwool breed of sheep. In addition, livestock owners, whether farmer or not, enter their beast to compete for best in class, with many classes from cattle to goats.
The Countryside Area has trade stands and displays. There is the opportunity to try out fly fishing in the pond, watch the impressive falcon displays, amusing pig racing, or sit and watch genius craftsmen create marvellous figures out of logs using chainsaws.
The Show is also popular for it equine events. Incredible working draught horses and childrens' ponies are among those to be shown in the Main Ring. There is often a member of the Royal Family present at the show, often taking part in show jumping.
The Main Ring is one of the central attractions of the Show. Performances throughout the two days draw crowds to admire such acts as the White Helmets Motorcycle Display Team, from the Army's Royal Signals. This is one of my personal favourite displays, performing stunts, formations and tricks on motorbikes and quads. Another popular display is the conveying of the Young Farmers' trailers. From Young Farmers Clubs accross the county, each club spends months building a trailer according to a theme, such as fairy tales. Each trailer has a hidden tank, containing vast amounts of water, which on the second day will be sent towards the other trailers and even spectators surrounding the Main Ring.
The Main Ring has seating around it, but are often occupied. It is also fronted by the brand new Epic Centre, an impressive building constructed in an eco-friendly manner, funded by various organisations and private donators. On the main floor are many exhibitors who offer eco-friendly products and services, such as wind turbines for your home, energy efficient boilers, and recycled goods. On the upper floor is the Members' area, offering the best view of the Main Ring, in addition to bar and restaurant facilities.
The Food Court offers culinary specialities from local produce or a bacon bun, and demonstrations from local celebrity chef Rachel Green.
Alternatively, there are numerous burger vans and ice cream vans around the site, and for a drink you might like to pop into the Tom Woods Beer Tent, one of the favorites for many, where you can sample the ales produced by the local brewer.
The Lincolnshire Show boasts more than 600 trade stands, made up of anything from independant specialists selling hand crafted furniture, to national clothes retailiers.
There is also an area dedicated to horticulture. Trade exhibitors sell garden tools and sheds, whilst there is an interesting Flower Show, displaying many plants and flowers.

This year, ticket prices will be as follows:
Adult £16.20
OAP £14.40
Child £4.50
Family £35.10 (2 adults and 3 children)

The showground is located at Grange-de-Lings, immediately off the A15 north of Lincoln.

The Lincolnshire Show is definately worth a visit, whether you are a local who wants to support your county, or you come from elsewhere and would like to see what we have to offer.

Summary: Worth a visit