Saturday will see the 127th Skelton Show take place offering A Spectacular Celebration of Rural Life and Entertainment
In anticipation of the highly anticipated Skelton Show, the organizing committee and dedicated team have been working tirelessly to ensure that this year's event surpasses all expectations. Set to open its gates in just 24 hours, the Skelton Show promises to deliver another memorable and entertaining experience for attendees of all ages.
Yesterday, Penrith Town had the privilege of getting an exclusive sneak peek of the showgrounds alongside Colin Atkinson, the chairman of Skelton Show, and the show director John Slee. The scene was one of pristine preparation, with rows of gleaming farm equipment standing ready to captivate the crowds. Marquees had been meticulously erected, and the grass was trimmed to perfection. As we strolled through the rows of pens, we caught a glimpse of the showground from a sheep's perspective, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the contenders for the sheep judging on Saturday.
Skelton Show this year has a favourable weather forecast and the ground is this year firm and mud-free.
With everything almost ready and in place, it's time to provide a glimpse of the main attractions that await visitors on show day, this Saturday.
The heart-pounding "On the Edge" Motorcycle Stunt Show will thrill spectators with its daring feats. The Ullswater Community College Wolves Cheerleaders are set to dazzle the audience with their energetic performances. For animal lovers, there will be an opportunity to meet and interact with adorable alpacas. The stunning Concourse d'Elegance will showcase the epitome of automotive elegance, while the Penrith Town Band will provide melodic accompaniment throughout the day. Additionally, various street performers will entertain visitors on the field. Vintage vehicle enthusiasts will have their fill, as over 120 classic automobiles will be on display. The two vast Craft & Gift Marquees will house sixty remarkable stands, offering an array of crafts and gifts. Food enthusiasts can indulge in the Taste Skeleton Food Festival, featuring live cookery demonstrations throughout the day. The Cumbria Fire Service Fire Engine will be present, providing an interactive experience for attendees. Furthermore, new for this year, the Food & Entertainment Village will provide live music into the evening, ensuring the festivities continue long after the sun sets.
As the day unfolds, the Skelton Show will offer a range of trade stands, cattle exhibits, and crafts, accompanied by a wide selection of delectable food and drink options, catering to everyone's tastes.
Ensuring that attendees stay informed about the results of events and judging, the renowned Mr. Adam Day will take up the microphone in the commentary box, providing his expertise and insight. Mr. Day is a Cumbrian agriculture ambassador, celebrated for his passion for farming and his familiar presence in the Cumbria countryside.
The action-packed Saturday timetable for Skelton Show is as follows (times are approximate):
- 8:30 am: Judging of Fells, Shetlands, and Pony Handy Hunters
- 8:30 am: Judging of Hunters and Coloured Horses and Ponies
- 9:00 am: Judging of Working Hunters (BSPS) and Mountain and Moorland Horses
- 9:30 am: Judging of Special Young Handlers Qualifier (Cattle and Sheep)
- 9:30 am: Judging of Sheep & Cattle in the Licensed Animal Area
- 9:45 am: Judging of Horticultural & Industrial Marquee
- 9:45 am: Entries for the Companion Dog Show taken at the dog show tent
- 10:00 am: Trade Stands, Food Hall, and Crafts Tent open
- 10:30 am: Judging of Vintage Vehicles
- 10:30 am: Judging of Heavy Horses in Main Ring
- 11:00 am: Kitchen Demonstrations start @TasteSkelton Food Hall
- 11:30 am: Concours D'Elegance in Main Ring
- 12:00 pm: Judging of Veteran Horses
- 12:00 pm: Skelton Companion Dog Show & Judging of Foxhounds & Terriers
- 12:30 pm: Judging of Cobs, Riding Horses, and Ex-Racehorses
- 12:30 pm: Scurry racing in Main Ring
- 12:45 pm: Marquee open to the public
- 1:30 pm: Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling commences Ave F
- 1:45 pm: Ullswater Community College Cheerleaders
- 2:00 pm: Judging of Champion of Champions Horse & Livestock (Main Ring)
- 2:00 pm: Child With Pet in Main Ring
- 2:00 pm: Judging of Equitation
- 2:15 pm: "On the Edge" Motorcycle Stunt Show
- 2:30 pm: Grand Parade assembles outside Main Ring
- 2:45 pm: Grand Parade, Trophy Presentations & Points Awards
- 3:15 pm: Parade of North Cumberland Foxhounds
- 3:15 pm: Live Music in the new Entertainment Village until 8 pm
- 3:30 pm: Parade of Vintage Vehicles & Championship
- 4:00 pm: "On the Edge" Motorcycle Stunt Show
- 4:30 pm: Terrier Racing
- 4:45 pm: Sports of Horseback
Show Director John Slee said “we have an action-packed day planned to provide great entertainment and enjoyment; in the main ring the entertainment will feature the fearless and amazing On the Edge motorcycle stunt team. As a complete contrast with a calmer and more elegant event will be the Concours d’Elegance equestrian display.” “To host such a major event, we rely upon an army of volunteers and I’d like to thank all those who have agreed to assist us this year, all of whom will help ensure we host a great show day.”
The traditional agricultural aspects are still very much at the heart of Skelton show as Chairman Colin Atkinson comments “in addition to the large selection of cattle, horses, dogs and sheep, there is a marquee full of classes for children, cooking, painting, floral arts, vegetables and walking sticks. The extensive @TasteSkelton Food and Gifts and Crafts tents provide a wide range of local produce to taste and purchase whilst other attractions include the Cumberland and Westmorland Wrestling competition, pony sports and numerous trade stands”.
The Skelton Show will take place at the Old Park, Hutton in the Forest, just outside Penrith. Visitors can easily locate the show grounds by following the signposts from Junction 41. Alternatively, those looking to avoid the hassle of driving can take advantage of the Fellrunner shuttle, running between Penrith and Skelton Show on Saturday.
The Fellrunner Bus will depart from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm, leaving Penrith Bus Station and making a pick-up stop by Esso Garage on Scotland Road. The bus will return every half hour, with the final bus departing from the Showfield at 5 pm. The Skelton Show committee expresses their gratitude to the Fellrunner for providing this complimentary service, and passengers are kindly requested to make a donation to help with fuel costs.
The showfield will be open from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm, offering limited Wi-Fi connectivity. It is advisable to bring cash for purchases, as card payments will only be accepted between 10:30 am and 3 pm at the pedestrian entrance from the North Car Park. All other gates, Sunday Funday, and the bar will accept cash only.
Entrance fees for Skelton Show 2023 are as follows:
- Adults: £15.00
- Concessions*: £10.00
- Children under 11: Free
- Family Ticket (2 Adults and up to 3 Children): £40.00
With such a diverse array of activities and entertainment, the Skelton Show promises to be a packed days experience for all who attend. Whether you're captivated by equestrian events, fascinated by vintage vehicles, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the show, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on this incredible celebration of local rural life and entertainment!
*Concessions: OAP (over 65's) and 11-17 year olds
Then select "Add to Home Screen"
