Not only will The Game Fair have a huge positive effect on the economy of the area as 125,000 visitors passionate about the countryside flock to this corner of Oxfordshire, landowners, farmers and rural professionals will also be taking advantage of vital networking opportunities, with sustainability, food security and market innovations at the heart of their conversation.

Managing Director of The Game Fair, James Gower is keen to promote its value to the whole area and how it boosts the local economy, “The Game Fair is the largest festival of the countryside in the whole of Europe, where visitors can enjoy a host of food, drink and shopping options, as well as many country sports and outdoor activities. The purchases made at the show and following it are in the millions and so many areas of the rural and local economy benefit.”

The Game Fair features everything from fishing, fantastic food and family activities to shooting, shopping and super VIP glamping. There truly is no other place a countryside lover would want to be for the last weekend of July. “Being back at Blenheim Palace for 2024 feels even more special this year, The Game Fair is a great family and sporting event, it brings together people with a shared passion who are the heart and soul of the countryside, as well as it being one very big party!” adds James. 

The shopping experience at The Game Fair is spectacular - no high street can offer the variety you’ll see here. Performance clothing, traditional tweeds, fishing rods, dog beds, shotguns and rifles, optics, ammunition, homewares, designer wear, footwear, vintage, art and machinery are but a taste of what’s on offer.

Talking of taste there’s plenty for the foodies among us – the Totally Food area features the best of local artisan producers offering everything from pheasant goujons to beer from micro-breweries and much more. For culinary inspiration take in a demonstration at the BASC Wild Food Theatre or treat yourself to lunch cooked by superstar celebrity chef James Martin, a great supporter of The Game Fair over the years who will once again be hosting the VIP enclosure area.

Speaking of celebs, if you’re a fan of ‘Escape to the Chateau’ you won’t want to miss Dick and Angel Strawbridge. The dynamic duo will be hosting the VIP enclosure on the Sunday of the event, adding an extra layer of excitement, culinary expertise and crafting know-how to the three-day festival of the countryside. Dick will also showcase his culinary skills with a game cookery demonstration within the BASC Wild Food Theatre ‘First Date’ barman Merlin Griffith’s will be there, having designed two special cocktails for The Game Fair he will also be taking part in a debate about owning rural pubs in the Carter Jonas Game Fair Theatre. 

Country sport is everywhere at The Game Fair – from gundogs and fishing to shooting, pugs and drummers displays and archery. Competitions for gundogs and shooting make a great spectacle, but if you want to give something a go yourself, there’s opportunities to try clay shooting, fly fishing, coarse fishing, fly tying, ferreting and you can even bring your own dog to enter one of the have-a-go competitions.

The main arena will be alive with action from Hound Parades and Scurry Driving to Mounted Games, and Falconry plus Freddy Steele with his stunning horses in a Spectacle of Equitation not forgetting the Shetland Grand National which is thrilling and truly loved by all!

The Fishing Village offers a great insight into the sport and you can learn to fish, cast a fly and get advice on buying the right tackle. Visitors will be able to get up close to some of our native fish species in the Environment Agency fish tank, listen to talks in the Landing Stage theatre and watch angling demonstrations beside the river.

Shooting takes pride of place at The Game Fair with one of the longest shooting lines at any event, delivered by the experienced team from one of the world’s best-loved shooting grounds and sporting agencies, E. J. Churchill. Don’t miss Gunmakers Row, where you can check your gun fit and find knowledgeable advice from experts and a fascinating insight into the world of shooting. 

For all things canine visit The Sporting Dog Pavilion whether you simply want to discover more about the many and varied breeds that work in the field or you are looking for your next shooting companion, you’ll get a fantastic heads-up from the team of experts on hand.

The Carter Jonas Game Fair Theatre offers the chance to watch exciting debates and scintillating conversations live on stage, hosted by Charlie Jacoby from Fieldsports Channel. Take the opportunity to sit down and enjoy the lively mix of content that is both thought-provoking and enjoyable, covering a range of topics on the countryside.

There truly is something for every age group at The Game Fair. You and your family certainly won’t be bored! Head to the main arena for a mix of exciting competitions, educational demonstrations, thrills and perhaps even a few spills! 

You could make your visit to The Game Fair a very special occasion by upgrading to one of our VIP Enclosure packages. Whether you want the best of British hospitality, a space to escape the crowds, or a ringside seat for the best entertainment in the Main Arena – The Enclosure, sponsored by Investec is the perfect place to enjoy your Game Fair experience. 

Alternatively, make a weekend of it by glamping in a fully furnished and carpeted Bell Tent or bring your own tent or motorhome for a camping experience within walking distance of the action.

Visit the Box Office at www.thegamefair.org to book your tickets now!