
There can be fewer locations better for a country show than Kilnsey in Wharfedale. The show spreads across the flat fields in the valley floor and has the dramatic face of Kilnsey Crag towering over it. Every year there’s a show here on the Tuesday after the second August Bank Holiday. The show draws contestants and visitors from the local dales, and from many miles away.
Yesterday the sun was out and the snowfield was busy. We wanted to check the sheep show first but didn’t make it straight there, distracted as we were by the carthorses, and by vintage tractors. In the central areas, sheep dog trials were taking place, with skilful whistling and voice commands orchestrating the rounding up of sheep. Horse riders were tackling the jump course; there were spaniels being guided to retrieve, as if on a shoot; there was showjumping; birds of prey being shown off … and in the large marquees, docile cows and bulls seemingly unperturbed by the stream of people walking past them, and occasionally stroking them. Along the river there was fly-fishing, and the fell race saw runners sprint up the steep rise to the top of the crag.
The best way, we think, to share what went on, is with a series of pictures … so here are a few.

‘If you can’t beat em, join em!’ As the vintage tractors fire up ready for their parade around the show ring, we stopped to talk to Mary, the only female driver of the group.

The Brass Band playing ‘Shepherd in the Hills’

Judges tap the mules as they choose which will make the shortlist for Champion


Looking down onto the show from the side of Kilnsey Crag

One of many bulls lying lazily in fresh straw, seemingly oblivious to the crowds around it.

One of the essentials on show day …