Nearly 8,000 visitors flocked to the Lincolnshire Showground on Sunday, April 19, for a sun-soaked day of family entertainment, hands-on activities and countryside attractions, with organisers hailing it a record-breaking success.
Glorious spring sunshine and clear blue skies set the tone for the day, helping to create a lively atmosphere from the moment gates opened and families began exploring the site.
This year’s anniversary event introduced several new features, many of which quickly proved popular with visitors. A brand-new crazy golf course was a hit with families, while the Dart Polo Academy brought a fast-paced equestrian display to the rings for the first time.
Visitors also enjoyed a striking Shire Horse display, celebrating the traditional heritage of the breed, alongside a new one-day British Show Jumping event in the equine rings, which attracted strong interest from both competitors and spectators watching from the viewing areas along Bembridge Avenue.
These new additions sat alongside returning favourites including Hawkeye Falconry displays and Riding for the Disabled demonstrations, both of which drew large and enthusiastic crowds throughout the day.
Families also had the chance to meet a wide range of animals and creatures, from baby Highland cows at Rand Farm Park to exotic reptiles and insects in the EXO Centre with Matt’s Mini Beasts. Younger visitors enjoyed sensory and musical sessions from Caterpillar Music, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere.
Food and drink options proved just as popular, with visitors enjoying everything from coffee stops to street food favourites including Cheesy Pig and Fleurs Kitchen.
The record attendance reflects the continued growth and popularity of the event, which organisers say has become a key date in the county’s calendar for families wanting to experience rural life up close.
Rosie Crust, Head of Charity at the Lincolnshire Showground, said: “Celebrating our 10th year with such an incredible turnout has been truly heart-warming.
“Countryside Lincs is all about inspiring families to connect with rural life and seeing so many children laughing, learning and getting hands-on with the countryside reminds us exactly why this event matters.
“We’re so grateful to our exhibitors, volunteers and visitors for making this year our most memorable yet.”
The milestone celebration comes just weeks ahead of the Lincolnshire Show, which returns to the Showground on June 17–18.
For more information on the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society and events at the Lincolnshire Showground, visit www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk
5. Countryside Lincs at Lincolnshire Show Ground
The Trickstars performing in the Countryside Ring Photo: David Dawson
6. Countryside Lincs at Lincolnshire Show Ground
Alison Walling of Lincolnshire Willow, with Kai Osborne 2 Photo: David Dawson
7. Countryside Lincs at Lincolnshire Show Ground
Mary Davenport of Cote Hill Cheese, Market Rasen, with Iain Pringle and Etta Pringle 4 of Ingham, making cheese Photo: David Dawson
8. Countryside Lincs at Lincolnshire Show Ground
Paulline Johnson of Caister, spinning lincoln Long wool on the Lincoln Long Wools display, watched by Lulu the sheep Photo: David Dawson