Every year in the heart of Harrogate, a vibrant tapestry of rural British life unfolds at the Great Yorkshire Show.
This iconic event, which has been captivating visitors since 1838, is steeped in history and offers a delightful blend of agriculture, food, entertainment, and more, making it an unmissable experience for anyone with a love for the countryside.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Harrogate Showground, the Great Yorkshire Show is a dazzling showcase of farming prowess and rural traditions. It attracts over 140,000 visitors annually, eager to immerse themselves in agricultural life. The show is a testament to the enduring values and traditions of Yorkshire, whilst also embracing modern innovations in farming and agriculture.
The Yorkshire Agricultural Society, founded in 1837, became a driving force in British agricultural development and was the first of the societies of its kind to hold a show. A show that from 1843 became known as the Great Yorkshire Show. It was held at many different locations until it found its permanent home in Harrogate in 1951. Locations such as Bradford, Leeds, York and Halifax. The show always had an affinity with Harrogate, however, for instance, in 1873, during the ‘Golden Age’ of the Society when a record nearing 39,000 entered the gates. This led to a revenue of around £299,575 in today’s money. Then, again, in 1897, when show jumping took place for the first time, with the takings from the Grand Stand for a single day equalling the usual takings for all of the show days.
The idea for a permanent site for the show was introduced in 1948 by the new chairman of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, Mr F. M. Baldwin, who wrote a memorandum on the subject. A committee was established to study the idea of a permanent home and in 1949 the chairman of the committee, Lord Middleton, opened an Emergency Council to discuss it and in the next meeting there was a vote of eighty-one to three in favour of a permanent site. There was competition between Harrogate and York for the rights to the permanent site, however, on 21st June 1949, at the Extraordinary General Meeting of the Council the Honorary Show Director, Sir John Spencer announced that Harrogate would be the home of the Great Yorkshire Show.
In his words, “The Harrogate site is 1.3 miles from the station, is about 200 acres in one lot, is well wooded, has a South West aspect, has good road access, there is ample level land with room for expansion.”
And as they say, the rest is history…
In essence, the Great Yorkshire Show is a celebration of rural life and a true reflection of Yorkshire’s agricultural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer, a foodie, or simply seeking a day out in the countryside, the show promises an unforgettable experience filled with heritage, innovation, and of course, the warm Yorkshire hospitality.
