Stanhope Show | Weardale's Premier Show

Stanhope Show is Weardale's premier agricultural show, organised by the Stanhope Agricultural Society, which was formed in 1834; a show has been held every year since, apart from the war years, the Foot & Mouth outbreak and the Covid pandemic.

The show is always held on the second weekend in September at Unthank Park, Stanhope, County Durham (DL13 2PQ), on the banks of the River Wear beside the B6278. The 2026 edition runs on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026. The showground opens to exhibitors at 8.00am and to the public at 9.00am on both days; the last main arena attraction ends at approximately 6.30pm on Saturday and 4pm on Sunday, with trade stands closing at around 5pm and live bands in the members' marquee from 4pm on Sunday.

The show's primary focus is the exhibition of local cattle and sheep, show jumping, horse and pony classes, and industrial produce. Show sections cover agriculture (cattle and sheep), horses (including Dales Ponies, Clydesdales and heavy horse turnouts), British Showjumping, harness and open sulky racing, fur and feather, horticulture, produce and craft, photography, dressed walking sticks, dog shows, and a terrier and lurcher show. Main arena attractions for 2026 include the Knights of Nottingham jousting, the Paul Swift team of stunt drivers, Falconry Days flying displays, the World Championship Cumberland Wrestling, Newton Aycliffe Pipe Band, Stanhope Silver Band, vintage vehicles and tractors, and a gymkhana. Visitors can also enjoy the Taste of the Dales pavilion, a shopping marquee with handmade and crafts stalls, and a wide range of trade stands.