The Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show is North Dorset’s two-day country show, held at Turnpike Showground in Motcombe, just outside Shaftesbury. The 2026 edition ran on Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 August, and the 2027 dates have not been announced yet. Tickets are valid for either day of the show, or you can buy a two-day ticket.
The organiser describes champion livestock classes and equine displays, a main ring programme, local food and drink, trade stands and children’s activities. The 2026 show introduced horseboarding to the main ring, and the programme also included Shetland pony racing, terrier and ferret racing and a family dog show.
Visitor information
Dates: The 2027 dates will be published on the organiser’s website.
Venue: Turnpike Showground, near Motcombe on the Gillingham to Shaftesbury road. Use the postcode SP7 9PL for sat nav.
Parking: Free on site. Shuttle buses run from Gillingham and Shaftesbury, and there is disabled parking for blue badge holders.
Tickets: Bought online through the show’s website, and valid for either day; a two-day ticket is also sold. Prices for 2027 have not been published.
Dogs: Allowed on a lead at all times. They are not permitted in the livestock areas or the Horticultural Marquee, and banned breeds are not allowed on the showground.
Family friendly: Yes, with children’s activities alongside the animals and ring displays.
Where to stay
Motcombe is a short drive from Shaftesbury, which has the closest choice of places to stay, and the Blackmore Vale villages are nearby. Read more about Motcombe or browse places to stay near Motcombe.
