Exford Show

Exford Show is an annual agricultural event established in 1889, held on the second Wednesday in August just outside the village of Exford on Exmoor. It showcases local horses, Exmoor Ponies, and sheep alongside crafts, trade stands, and local food and drink, including a notable local ice-cream. The show takes place in a field shared with the ancient burial mound known as Herne's Barrow.

The event is open to everyone, even those who do not share a specific love for horses or livestock. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking setting looking north over the Exe Valley toward Dunkery and south to Molland Common via Withypool Hill. Competitions for livestock and other categories are a key part of the event.

Membership subscriptions are £15 per individual or £20 per family, and must be paid by 1st July each year. Fully paid up Members receive a car pass, Members badges, and use of light refreshment facilities in the Members Enclosure. For those requiring reserved disabled parking in the Members Enclosure by the main ring, an early arrival is recommended as spaces are very limited.

Tickets for 2026 are cash only and can be purchased on the day at the entrance to the Showground. A single occupancy car or pedestrian ticket costs £15 including a programme, while a car ticket costs £20 including a programme. Gates open at 8am on Wednesday 12th August 2026.

The showground is located between Exford and Winsford Hill on the B3223 and is best reached by car. There is plenty of parking available on site, with special areas set aside for those with accessibility requirements. Visitors needing the disabled parking area must show their blue badge when entering the gate.

The show is held on land provided by the Branton, Jowell & Edwards families, who allow its use year after year without any payment whatsoever. This generosity is described as extremely generous by the organizers. The event celebrates local Exmoor heritage by showcasing local animals and crafts.

Some reviewers praise the breathtaking setting and the unique combination of agricultural competitions with local crafts and trade stands. The presence of the ancient burial mound, Herne's Barrow, adds a historical element to the experience. Visitors can purchase local food and drink on site, including a notable local ice-cream.

The show has been going for over a century and a quarter, having been established in 1889. It is always held on the second Wednesday in August, making it a long-standing tradition in the area. The event continues to celebrate local Exmoor heritage through its various activities.

The show shares the field with an ancient burial mound known as Herne's Barrow. According to ancient myth, Herne the Hunter was a ghostly apparition who appeared sporting a set of stag's horns growing from his head and rattling chains. The organizers note they are not sure whether this barrow belongs to the same Herne.

The show is designed to celebrate Exmoor and its people, with a focus on local heritage. It features the finest of local horses, Exmoor Ponies, and sheep on show. The event also includes superb crafts and trade stands for visitors to explore.

The show is held on the second Wednesday in August, which is a fixed date relative to the calendar. This timing ensures the event occurs consistently each year. The showground is situated high above the village of Exford on Exmoor.

The show has a Trustburn rating of 4 out of 5 from 5 reviews. This rating reflects the positive experiences of visitors who have attended the event. The show continues to attract interest from those who love Exmoor and its people.

The show is organized by a team that includes a Show Secretary for membership enquiries and applications. Members can support the show by paying a subscription fee. The event is managed with a focus on celebrating local heritage and providing a unique experience for visitors.

The show includes a countdown timer on its website leading up to the event day. It also provides information on how to find the showground and what to expect. The event is a significant part of the local community and heritage.

You can reach Exford Show by phone at 01598 710384.