Frequently Asked Questions


What is the Bakewell Show?
The Bakewell Show is Derbyshire’s largest agricultural show.  We have over 300 trade stands, competitive classes for horses, dogs, cattle, sheep, goats, pigeons, poultry, rabbits, horticulture, dairy & meat products, floral art, show jumping and vintage vehicles.  Together with great attractions and children’s entertainment, Bakewell Show is a great day out for the whole family.  For more information please browse the website.

When is the Bakewell Show?
The Bakewell Show is always on the first Wednesday and Thursday in August.  The 182nd show will therefore be on the 1st & 2nd August 2012.  We do now have some horse classes taking place on the Tuesday afternoon, for 2012 this will be Tuesday 31st July.

When does the show open and close?
The Bakewell Show opens about 8.30am and closes at about 7.00pm.

Will the show be cancelled?
NO! The Bakewell Show has not been cancelled since World War II, no matter what the weather – sun, rain, wind, or even snow - Bakewell Show will not be cancelled!

Where can I get tickets?
You can buy tickets through this website or tyg tickets , through the post or over the telephone to the show office.  You can come into the office before the show or visit one of our advanced ticket sellers in your area.  Alternatively you can buy tickets on the gate when you arrive.  (Tyg tickets are electronic tickets you print from your own printer!)

What will the weather be like?
As we are not meteorologists, we do not know what the weather will be doing.  We suggest you look at a weather forecast site such as BBC Weather, Metcheck.com, or yr.no.

What should I wear?
Obviously you should wear sensible clothing to an agricultural show.  We advise wearing flat, comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking if you wish to see the whole show and some areas are grass under foot.  

Are dogs allowed on the Showground?
Yes, dogs are allowed onto the Showground, but we ask they are kept on a short lead.  We also have a dog crèche located near the dog show, where your dog can take some time out.

Where is the Showground?
The showground is located just off of the A6 Haddon Road on the outskirts of Bakewell, no more than a 5 minute walk from the centre of the town. For directions to the showground see the map on the visit page.

What arrangements are there for coach parties?
Coach parties can drop off their passengers outside Bakewell Police Station and then park the coach at Lady Manners School.  There is a taxi service to bring the drivers back into town.  Drivers can receive free entrance tickets if requested in advance.

Where can I park?
There is a public car park adjacent to the Showground, but we recommend using the three Park and Ride areas to the north of Bakewell near Hassop Roundabout.  These will be well signposted to prevent traffic jams.  The buses for these then travel along the Monsal Trail and drop off just outside the Show.

Where is the disabled car park?
Our disabled car park is located on Smith’s Island.  This is accessible to Patrons and disabled parking permit holders only and will be filled on a first come first served basis.  Disabled parking is charged at £5.00 per day.

Can I hire a Mobility Scooter?
Chesterfield Shop Mobility have scooters available to hire throughout the show, these can be booked in advance by calling them on 01246 559 331.

Why do you charge for parking?
We do not own enough land to be able to provide free parking facilities. Therefore we have to lease our neighbours fields for the duration of the show, this is the charge that we pass on to our visitors who use the car parks.  We can safely say we do not make any profit on the car parking for the show. 

What about public transport?
Our nearest train stations are Buxton and Matlock, and we have good bus links to all the surrounding towns and cities.  For organised coach trips please see our list of advanced ticket sellers.

How about walking/cycling on the Monsal Trail?
Due to the Park and Ride system the Monsal Trail will be closed between Hassop Bookshop and Bakewell, for safety reasons. 


What is the difference between a Member and a Patron?
A Member receives two tickets for each day of the show, a Member’s and Member’s guest badge for entry into the Member’s enclosure, a parking permit for the two days in the Member’s car park, regular newsletters as to what is happening at the show and a copy of the yearly report.

Patrons receive two tickets for each day of the show, a Patron’s and Patron’s guest badge for entry into the Member’s and Patron’s enclosures, a parking permit for the two days in the Patron’s car park, regular newsletters as to what is happening at the show and a copy of the yearly report.   For full information see the membership benefits page.

Can I have a Trade Stand?
Maybe… We ask you to either send in a written enquiry to the show office or fill in the enquiry form on the trade stand page of this website.  Basic details we need to know are as follows: Who are you?  What would you be selling / promoting?  How large is your trade stand likely to be? And any other relevant information, pictures are always very helpful if you have them.

How can I help at / become involved with the show?
The show would not happen without the help and support of our many volunteer stewards and committee members.  If you are interested in becoming involved with the Bakewell Show, please contact the office.

What about sponsorship / advertising at / corporate hospitality / donations to the show?
To find out about any of these please either see our Sponsorship page or Corporate Hospitality or call Janet Bailey at the show office.

Are there any jobs available at the Show?
All jobs available at the Bakewell Show will be advertised through Chesterfield Job Centre.
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