David Tennant, head of show for RHASS, is responsible for delivering the Royal Highland Show. He shares his top ‘don’t miss’ tips
“We are always looking for ways to strengthen and evolve the Royal Highland Show experience, while staying true to the traditions that make it so well known and loved,” says David Tennant.
“Alongside showcasing the very best in farming from across Scotland and beyond, the event at Ingliston, to the west of Edinburgh, serves as a platform to celebrate the future of the industry through initiatives such as our Innovation Awards. Awards. It also shines a light on the next generation of farmers through our Young Handlers competitions and the provenance and excellence of Scottish food and drink in working with both evolved and emerging brands.
“Just as importantly, the show opens the doors of agriculture to non-farming communities and families, making it accessible for all and helping to spark curiosity amongst the next generation who may one day want to work in the rural sector.”
1. Taste your way through Scotland’s Larder
From artisan producers to award-winning ice cream, the food offering in Scotland’s Larder continues to expand, with more than 70 brands this year showcasing the very best of Scottish produce and emerging culinary trends.
2. Watch the main ring spectacles
The main ring remains the centrepiece of the show, featuring major livestock parades, equine displays, including side saddle and the heavy horse competitions and large-scale entertainment throughout the four-day show.
3. Experience Scotland’s countryside sports and forestry competitions
Returning crowd favourites include axe throwing, sheep dog trials and chainsaw demonstrations and pole climbing where you can see competitors race to the top of our 80ft poles in under 10 seconds, bringing traditional rural skills to life in ways you might have never seen before. The Scottish pole climbing
championships final takes place on Sunday at 3pm and is a must-see.
4. Get up-close to demonstrations
Explore demonstrations and hands-on activities across the showground including sheep shearing demonstrations and the story of wool and milking demonstrations during our dedicated family day on the Sunday of the show.
5. Take in panoramic views from the big wheel
One of the show’s best photo opportunities, the big wheel offers visitors a full aerial view of the show, the Edinburgh skyline and beyond (weather permitting).
6. See the next generation of farmers
Head to the livestock rings to watch the Young Handler competitions as young competitors present sheep, beef cattle, heavy horses and the overall Young Handler from 9am Sunday. It’s a brilliant way for families to see young people proudly showcasing their livestock.text
7. Explore the Food for Thought cookery theatre
Live chef demonstrations, tastings and producer showcases give visitors the chance to discover new recipes, Scottish ingredients and what’s new on Scotland’s exciting foodie scene.
8. Family entertainment throughout the show
Head to the countryside area for plenty of family-friendly fun, from circus skills and soft play to face painting and alpaca encounters. Kids can test their driving skills with mini rovers, meet everyone’s favourite green tractor at the Tractor Ted stand, or get hands-on with interactive activities designed to entertain, educate and spark imaginations throughout the day.
9. See prize-winning livestock in the Highland Hall
The iconic cattle hall in highland hall is where visitors can get close to some of the finest cattle from across the country.
10. Catch the grand parade and Sunday finale
The traditional grand parade brings together the show’s top prize-winning livestock and competitors in one of Scotland’s biggest celebrations of rural life, ending the event on a major high. Stay for the president’s salute and official closing ceremony, featuring the famous Lonach Highlanders at 3:30pm.
