The Durham County Show returns this weekend, July 4-5, at Thornley Hall Farm in Durham, featuring a packed programme of attractions including Shetland pony races, TV star dogs, and the Red Dragon monster truck.
Shetland Nationals and Animal Attractions
Shetland ponies and their young jockeys will compete in four races daily as part of the Shetland Nationals. The show also welcomes Lucy Heath and the Trickstars, familiar from Britain's Got Talent and Crufts, whose performances invite audience participation. On Sunday, dog shows Strutt Ya Mutt and Mutt's Got Talent will take place, with entries still open online. Dog obstacle courses, horse shows, showjumping, donkey visits, and alpaca walks are also available.
Monster Trucks and Vehicle Shows
The Red Dragon Monster Truck, billed as the only race-spec monster truck in Europe, will perform throughout the weekend, rolling over and smashing cars. Rides and driving opportunities are offered on Mini Movie Trucks. A car show on Saturday features vintage bikes and American imports, followed by a tractor show on Sunday.
Additional Entertainment and Practical Information
The showground, open from 9am to 5pm daily, includes trade stands, live music, archery, a Carnival Village with a fair, and a re-enactment village with Iceborn Vikings. Tickets are cheaper online: £10 for adults, £5 for children aged 5-15, £8 for those 65+, free for under-5s, and a family pass (2 adults + 2 under-16s) for £25. Tickets are also available at the gate. The full programme and timings are online but subject to change.
