Suffolk Show…ready, set, go!

This May half-term, get ready to enjoy an action-packed family day out at our county’s biggest two-day event – the Suffolk Show!

On Wednesday 31 May and Thursday 1 June, gates will open at Trinity Park in Ipswich for thousands of visitors to celebrate the best of Suffolk. From funfair to flowers to farming, there is something for all ages to see and do, and it remains great value for money with free parking and under 15s going free.

John Taylor, Honorary Director at this year’s Suffolk Show, said: “We are proud to put on such an action-packed day out that offers real value for families. Once you’re through the gates, visitors don’t need to spend a penny more with hundreds of attractions, displays and have-a-go activities that will keep the whole family entertained.

“The countdown is on and we’re all busy behind the scenes making sure this Show is one to remember. We can’t wait to welcome visitors back to Trinity Park this May half-term.”

Here’s our family guide on making the most of your day around the Showground. Get ready, set, go to the Suffolk Show!…

Furry farmyard friends

It wouldn’t be the Suffolk Show without our favourite farmyard animals! Kids will love the Farm Discovery Zone where you can meet a goat, feed a lamb, brush a donkey or see a piglet. Visitors can also see the majestic, rare breed Suffolk Punch horse and local Red Poll cattle around the Showground.

Nature explorers

For your little outdoor explorers, head to the Wildlife Zone and have a go at pond dipping, bug hunting or butterfly catching in the meadow. The Suffolk Wildlife Trust will be offering loads of free activities and crafts to encourage us all to connect with nature.

Emergency services zones

Meet our county’s real-life superheroes who are out saving lives every day. Representatives from police, fire service, ambulance and coastguard will be at the Show with their blue-light vehicles. Don’t miss the popular police dog demonstration in the President’s Ring!

Little luxuries

The Suffolk Show offers plenty of opportunity to discover local artisan makers, bakers and creators. Stop by the Adnams Food and Drink Experience and enjoy sampling food and drink from 80 local producers. On Fifth Avenue, shop for luxury country fashion and jewellery, or browse the inspiring homeware in the Lifestyle Pavilion.

Bursting with energy

If your kids are raring to go with energy to burn, take them to the Sports Zone where they can try their hand at tonnes of different sports and games…all for free! Have a go at off-road cycling, archery, climbing wall, trampolining or cricket. You can also try your luck scoring a goal against ITFC, or take the leap of faith off the giant AirDrop.

 

Fantastic florals

The Glasswells Flower and Garden Show is a must-see at the Suffolk Show. It compares to a mini-RHS Chelsea, filled with fancy floral arrangements, garden designs and plants for sale from the region’s best local nurseries. It’s also a lovely spot to enjoy a cup of tea and cake!

Learn and discover

The Suffolk Show offers a unique chance to learn something new. Experience VR in the BT Innovation tent, discover how to extract the DNA of a strawberry in the Farm Discovery Zone, or have a go at bricklaying or woodwork in the Suffolk Skills Zone.

Non-stop entertainment

When you’re ready to sit down and take in the sights, perch yourself beside one of the Show’s 12 display rings and enjoy a packed schedule of entertainment from the grandstand. Highlights include the comical Mascot Derby and Shetland Pony Grand National in the President’s Ring, while equine-lovers will enjoy the amazing showjumping in the Trinity Ring. Don’t miss the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team and the Red Devils Army Parachute Display Team who expect to be dropping into the Collins Grand Ring on Wednesday and Thursday respectively.

 

 

The Suffolk Show is organised by the Suffolk Agricultural Association, a registered charity, whose proceeds go towards an educational programme for local children, including the School Farm and Country Fair held annually in April.

 

Tickets are on sale now and they are always cheapest online. Under 15s go free once again and there is free parking this year too. Gates open at 7am, why not arrive early to make the most of your day!

 

Discounted tickets are available online at www.suffolkshow.co.uk/buytickets.

All images credited to Andy Abbott/Copyright SAA