Welcome to The Home of the World Champion Herdwick Sheep

Set in the heart of the Eskdale fells, the Eskdale Show is not only a celebration of tradition but also the proud home of the World Champion Herdwick sheep.

Patrick Fitzwilliam

Hall Dunnerdale Farm, Seathwaite, Cumbria

World Champion Herdwick Winner 2024

The Eskdale Show, a traditional agricultural event held in Eskdale, Cumbria, has been a cornerstone of the local community since it began in 1866. For over a century, the show has showcased livestock, produce, and crafts, while also offering various competitions and entertainment.

Complementing this is The May Tup Fair, a much older tradition dating back to the 1700s, focused on the buying and selling of tups (male sheep). Both events reflect the rich agricultural heritage of the region and play a significant role in its cultural calendar.

WHO WE ARE

A Traditional Lakeland Event

The Eskdale Show is a traditional Lakeland event, established in the 1800s. While a significant part of the show focuses on competitions for the best Herdwick sheep, athletic events, and produce, it is also a major social occasion and a highlight of life in the valley. 

We have classes for Herdwick sheep, foxhounds and terriers, poultry, vintage machinery and vehicles, handicrafts, and cookery. The show also features hound trails, children’s sports events, traditional wrestling and challenging fell races.

EVENTS HIGHLIGHTS

Key Attractions

World Champion Herdwick Sheep

Witness the finest Herdwick sheep compete for the prestigious World Champion title, a highlight of the show.

Classes & Entries

Participate in a variety of judged classes, from Herdwick sheep to vintage vehicles, highlighting traditional skills and excellence.

Trade Stands

Explore a vibrant marketplace filled with artisan foods, crafts, and agricultural products, showcasing the best of local talent.

World Champion Herdwick Sheep

Witness the finest Herdwick sheep compete for the prestigious World Champion title, a highlight of the show.

Classes & Entries

Participate in a variety of judged classes, from Herdwick sheep to vintage vehicles, highlighting traditional skills and excellence.

Trade Stands

Explore a vibrant marketplace filled with artisan foods, crafts, and agricultural products, showcasing the best of local talent.

World Champion Herdwick Sheep

Witness the finest Herdwick sheep compete for the prestigious World Champion title, a highlight of the show.

Classes & Entries

Participate in a variety of judged classes, from Herdwick sheep to vintage vehicles, highlighting traditional skills and excellence.

Trade Stands

Explore a vibrant marketplace filled with artisan foods, crafts, and agricultural products, showcasing the best of local talent.

World Champion Herdwick Sheep

Witness the finest Herdwick sheep compete for the prestigious World Champion title, a highlight of the show.

Classes & Entries

Participate in a variety of judged classes, from Herdwick sheep to vintage vehicles, highlighting traditional skills and excellence.

Trade Stands

Explore a vibrant marketplace filled with artisan foods, crafts, and agricultural products, showcasing the best of local talent.

Eskdale May Tup Fair

There are no entry forms for the Tup Fair—simply arrive with your sheep and join in the tradition. This open format encourages widespread participation and maintains the fair’s inclusive and community-focused spirit.

Join us at the Eskdale May Tup Fair to celebrate the heritage of Herdwick sheep, reconnect with friends, and experience a vital part of Eskdale’s cultural tradition. 

Andrew Harrison &

Kevin Hartley 

Eskdale May Tup Fair 2024 Champion & Reserve Champion

Celebrating 155 Years of Herdwick Heritage at Eskdale Show

A Showcase of Rich History

The Eskdale Show has a rich history of diverse classes, reflecting the agricultural and cultural heritage of the region.

01

Origins in Agriculture

02

Expansion of Livestock Classes

03

Incorporation of Cultural Competitions

04

Recognition of Traditional Skills

05

Ongoing Adaptation and Inclusion

The Eskdale Show was founded in 1865, deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of Cumbria. It began as a way for local farmers to showcase their prized livestock, particularly sheep, and agricultural skills, which remain central to the show.
Over time, the show expanded its livestock classes, including cattle, horses, and other farm animals. The Herdwick sheep, native to the region, became one of the show’s key highlights, reflecting the local farming heritage.
Beyond livestock, the Eskdale Show introduced competitions celebrating rural craftsmanship and traditional skills. Classes in handicrafts, baking, and horticulture were added, highlighting the cultural aspects of life in the region.
Classes such as sheepdog trials and vintage machinery exhibits were incorporated, paying homage to the traditional skills vital to farming and rural life. These competitions preserve and showcase the practical knowledge passed down through generations.
Today, the show continues to evolve, introducing modern categories while retaining its historical roots. New classes, such as photography and art, reflect contemporary interests, making the Eskdale Show a celebration of both past and present.

Explore our Classes & Entries

Explore the wide range of competitions that celebrate the heritage, skills, and creativity of our community.
Entry

Vintage Vehicles

Displaying classic tractors, cars, and other vintage machinery.
Class

Shepherds' Dogs

Demonstrating the skills of shepherds’ dogs in handling and obedience.
Class

Herdwick Sheep Judging

Showcasing the best Herdwick sheep, including the prestigious World Champion Herdwick title.
Entry

Vintage Vehicles

Displaying classic tractors, cars, and other vintage machinery.

World Champion Herdwick

The Eskdale Show, renowned as the premier event for Herdwick sheep, introduced the prestigious World Champion Herdwick award in 2016. Sponsored by The National Trust, this coveted trophy has become a symbol of excellence in Herdwick breeding and showing.

Tup Fair

Join us at the Tup Fair to celebrate the heritage of Herdwick sheep, reconnect with friends, and experience a vital part of Eskdale’s cultural tradition.

Programme Archive

Explore the Full Schedule of Events and Relive Past Highlights

2024 Programme

Eskdale Show

Saturday, 28th September

2023 Programme
Eskdale Show
Saturday, 30th September 2023

2022 Programme

Eskdale Show

Saturday, September 24th

2021 Programme

Eskdale Show

Saturday, September 25th

Experience the ultimate country show

Becoming a vendor at the Eskdale Show means joining a long-standing tradition of excellence and community spirit. We look forward to welcoming you to this year’s event and helping you connect with new customers and fellow traders.

Contact us

Please feel free to reach out by completing the contact form below. Your email will be directed to the most appropriate person to assist with your query.