It’s time to slather on the SPF30 (or shimmy into your wellies), grab some sunglasses (read: pack a mac) and harness the dogs/goats/children/significant other. Outdoor show season is here, and we’ll be out and about with goodie bags, prize giveaways and all the latest updates on our exciting new car releases. Just look out for a sunshine yellow Arnold Clark marquee and yellow t-shirts… because we’re determined to brighten up your day, whatever the weather.
Northumberland County Show, 25 May
As well as all creatures great and small, from alpacas to rabbits, there will also be wrestling, sheep shearing and a dog competition at Northumberland Show, the first of our outdoor events. Arnold Clark is one of the show’s sponsors this year, so be sure to seek out our stall on your way to sampling choice eats from the local food producers.
Staffordshire County Show, 27-28 May
Spanning two days at the end of May, find all the Staffordshire Country Showground’s action around its main hub, the Grand Ring. There will be motorcycle displays, vintage machinery and falconry, so don’t forget to bring our trusty point and click camera to capture a Kodak moment or two on the day.
The Cumberland Show, 6 June
Held at Carlisle Racecourse, Cumberland Show promises a celebration of the countryside with a modern twist. Expect cattle judging, a grand parade and terrier racing to add up to a fun day out for all the family.
Honley Show, 13 June
This year, Honley Show will host a crack motorcycle display team, as well as animal exhibitions, a stick-making competition and a craft exhibition tent where you can shop ‘til you drop on artisan trinkets.
Cheshire County Show, 23-24 June
Set in the gorgeous Cheshire countryside, the Cheshire County Show is host to a number of exceptional exhibitions. Check out the Sainsbury’s Agri Centre, where you can see live demonstrations (including ice-cream making!) or admire the canines strutting their stuff at its well-attended dog show.
Great Yorkshire Show, 14-16 July
Where else in the world can you watch the Shetland Pony Grand National, attend blacksmith lessons and learn about cheesemaking, all in one place? The Great Yorkshire Show promises to be epic, with around 130,000 attendees over three days.
Great Eccleston Show, 18 – 19 July
Hand-crafted exhibits, tempting Lancashire fare and a rugged tractor-pulling competition will give you a taste of something new if you drop in to the Great Eccleston Show this July. Turn up for the food, stay for the entertainment.
Bingley Show, 25 July
Pencil the last Saturday in July into your diary, because Bingley Show has already confirmed a barnstorming line-up for this year’s event. There will be a stunt riding display, falconry and a brass band to provide some musical accompaniment to proceedings.
Nantwich Show, 29 July
True foodies should follow their noses to Nantwich, where celebrity chef James Martin of Saturday Morning Kitchen fame will be skilfully turning out delicious treats to delight hungry bystanders.
Garstang Show, 1 August
Celebrating its 200-year anniversary in 2015, Garstang Show has some serious provenance. It’s not just about sheep and chickens, either. Whether you’re planning on bringing along your German Shepherd or a Pekingese, you can enter your dog into the companion dog show. It doesn’t even need to be a show pooch.
Lunesdale Show, 11 August
Good food, gorgeous livestock and quaint crafts promise to make Lunesdale Show a wonderful day out. There’s ice cream and Punch & Judy for the kids, too, so everyone can get involved.
Hawkshead Show, 18 August
Held at Hawkshead Hall farm, this show has a literary connection, given its situation in the Vale of Esthwaite, the famous home of writer Beatrix Potter. Learn about falconry, have a flutter on the hound trials, or check out the cute miniature horses.
Stoke City FC Motor Show, 5-6 September
You don’t have to be football-mad to enjoy the Big Motor Show, with more than 30 car-dealerships on hand and free entry, as well as parking for up to 1,000 cars on-site. Just bring along your love of cars and an appetite for the extensive food court for a fantastic day out.
Westmorland County Show, 10 September
Listed in the Tourism Event of the Year category in the 2015 Cumbria Tourism Awards, this event has proven itself in innovation and distinctiveness. With live music, local beer and a Young Shepherd of the Year Competition, this year looks set to be more exciting than ever.
Can’t wait ‘til show day? Search hundreds of new Arnold Clark cars here: