Southwell Ploughing Match 2026 – What a Show!

This year’s event was a brilliant celebration of farming, countryside, machinery, livestock, local businesses and the wider rural community, with an incredible turnout of exhibitors, competitors and visitors helping to make it a day to remember. From the moment the gates opened, there was plenty to see and do, with over 160 trade stands filling the showground. From agricultural machinery and farming services to local businesses, food, crafts and countryside organisations, there was something for everyone to discover.

A fantastic display of ploughing

At the heart of the event was, of course, the ploughing match, and this year certainly didn't disappoint. We welcomed more than 100 ploughing entries, including an impressive nine horse teams. It was fantastic to see competitors of all ages and experience levels taking to the field and demonstrating the skill, precision and tradition that makes ploughing such an important part of our agricultural heritage.

The horse teams were a particular highlight, providing a wonderful spectacle and a fascinating reminder of how farming looked before modern machinery transformed the industry.

Celebrating our local horticultural and homegrown produce

One of the real highlights of the show was the fantastic array of local produce on display. From impressive home-grown vegetables to beautifully presented produce, there was plenty to admire. The giant cauliflower was certainly hard to miss and proved just how impressive our local growers can be!

The show also provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the creativity and community spirit of local organisations, with an entertaining collection of promotional scarecrows bringing plenty of character to the event. From imaginative designs to clever takes on familiar businesses and organisations, they were a great example of the fun and creativity that goes into making the show such a colourful occasion.

Horses in the spotlight

The horse section was another fantastic feature of the day, with a wonderful selection of horse displays and entries providing plenty for equestrian enthusiasts to enjoy.

Alongside the impressive horse ploughing teams, visitors could enjoy seeing a variety of horses and displays showcasing the versatility, skill and tradition associated with working and ridden horses.

From the power and precision of the ploughing teams to the elegance of the display horses, the equine entries added a real sense of spectacle to the show.

Vintage machinery on display

For machinery enthusiasts, there was plenty to admire, with around 80 static vintage entries on display. From beautifully restored tractors and machinery to those still bearing the scars of years of hard work, the vintage section offered a fascinating glimpse into farming from years gone by. It was fantastic to see so many owners bringing their pride and joy along for visitors to enjoy.

Something for the four-legged visitors too!

The dog show proved hugely popular, with one class alone attracting more than 60 entries! It was brilliant to see so many dogs, and their owners, getting involved, adding plenty of fun and excitement to the day. With so many entries, there was certainly plenty of competition in the ring!

Livestock takes centre stage

The livestock section was another fantastic part of the show, with more than 100 livestock entries. The quality and variety of animals on display provided visitors with an opportunity to get up close to some of the region's finest livestock and learn more about the important role that livestock farming continues to play in our countryside.

A show for the whole family

What makes the Southwell Ploughing Match & Show so special is the sheer variety on offer. Whether your interest is farming, vintage machinery, horses, livestock, dogs, local produce, countryside crafts or simply enjoying a great day out with the family, there was something to capture everyone's attention. The scale of this year's event was a fantastic reflection of the support it receives from the rural community.

Thank you!

Events like this don't happen without an enormous amount of hard work from volunteers and comittee members behind the scenes.

A huge thank you goes to all of our competitors, exhibitors, trade stand holders, livestock exhibitors, horse teams, vintage enthusiasts, dog show entrants, volunteers, stewards, judges and supporters who helped make the day such a success.

And, of course, thank you to everyone who came along and supported the show. Your enthusiasm and support are what make the Southwell Ploughing Match & Show such a fantastic celebration of our agricultural and rural community.

From giant cauliflowers and impressive ploughing to magnificent horses, vintage machinery, livestock, dogs, creative scarecrows and an incredible range of local businesses and produce, this year's show really did have it all.

Thank you for making the Southwell Ploughing Match & Show one to remember. We can't wait to do it all again next year!

Save the date... Saturday 25th September 2027 at Blidworth Dale, Ravenshead