One of Devon’s biggest annual events is coming up fast and has a programme packed with family fun. Even better, book tickets for Devon County Show on Saturday 17 June and KIDS GO FREE.
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So what can you expect from this year’s show at Westpoint Showground in Exeter? Here’s our top picks for families, not to be missed:
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1. New family-fun zone
The organisers of this year’s show are pulling out all the stops to make it the most family-friendly yet, including creating a brand new kids-focussed zone.
What’s there?
- Devon Scouts’ 7m climbing wall
- Sporty shenanigans with Exeter City’s Community Football Club and Exeter Chiefs
- Circus skills with Elfic the Comedy Juggler
- Crafting with Pom Stitch Tassel
Plus, the chance to meet the Mayor of Cockington, Patrick the Shetland Pony. He’ll be making a celebrity appearance in the Family Fun Zone on Saturday.
Activities are low cost or free. No advance booking is required.
2. Follow the show trail
Do your kids love maps and treasure trails? Download the Devon County Show trail before you visit to keep your children engaged with fun facts and quizzes about each area.
3. Learn about farming
The interactive FarmWise section teaches young people where our food comes from in a fun and informative way. There will be apple pressing, tractors to ride and ‘cows’ to milk.
4. Support local talent
Another new feature for 2025 is a community stage, created in partnership with BBC Radio Devon to shine a spotlight on local talent.
The Engage Stage will feature a vibrant lineup, curated by BBC Devon including performances from Pelican Projects’ Jukebox Choir, The Deaf Academy Choir, DJ Jozzy, The Pinstripes from Exeter College, Ambitious Performers, Four of Swords, and emerging DJs, bands, and artists from The Cameron Mills Group.
5. Have tea with Alpacas
New for 2025 is Devon County’s Show’s first-ever alpaca café.
Twice a day, at 11am and 3pm, you can book this unique experience during which the alpaca ring will transform into a cafe complete with patio tables and chairs.
The stars of the show – Lakemoor Alpacas Ron, Hagrid, Sirius and Alby are friendly, inquisitive, and always ready for a snack. Guests will be invited to feed them nuts and carrots, while enjoying their company.
There is no charge for this experience but a collection is taking place for local charity Pete’s Dragons, with a suggested donation of £2 per adult. Pre-booking is essential.
6. Cuddle baby goats
It wouldn’t be a country show if there wasn’t a chance to meet baby animals. Head to the Dairy Goat marquee to find some of the event’s youngest participants.
There will also be more than 2,000 animals taking part in competitions to be crowned the best of breed. Don’t miss the super cute Kune Kune pigs including five month old Ginger Nut (pictured at the top of this guide).
7. Celebrate 200 years of railway
Devon County Show has teamed up with South Devon Railway to celebrate the 200th anniversary of modern railway travel.
Visitors can admire a resorted 1930s 6430 steam locomotive and an iconic Routemaster London bus from 1964 on South Devon Railway stand.
8. Be entertained at the arena
There are dozens of displays, from show jumping to demonstrations by Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue Service, during each day of the show.
Check out the arena programme on the website to make sure you arrive in time for a good view.
9. See vintage vehicles
More than 100 vintage steam engines and tractors will be on display at Devon County Show. Don’t miss them parade in the main arena on Saturday.
10. Snacks glore
If your family is anything like mine, you need to think about tummies during big days out. Luckily, there will be no shortage of delicious snacks and locally sourced dishes to try at the show as it boasts Devon’s largest food fair.
Visiting the show
The Devon County Show takes place from Thursday 15 to Saturday 17 May. Children aged under five do not require a ticket and are admitted to the show free of charge on all days.
All children aged over five-years-old need a ticket on Thursday and Friday of the show.
On Saturday two children aged five to 16 can visit for free with a paying adult. If an adult is accompanying three or more children then tickets are required for the third child onwards.
Use public transport if you can. The roads around Westpoint will be busy during the show.
Get tickets for Devon County Show on the official website.
Also take a look at my round up of what’s happening in Devon this weekend.
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