It could be up for debate as to whether or not those early pioneers of the Nidderdale Show, back in 1895, ever imagined that this agricultural show would go from strength to strength over the ensuing years to become one of the premier one day shows in the North of England.

There is, of course, an obvious connection between the show and tradition of the centuries old feast of the Nativity of Saint Mary. 

As the railway had arrived at Pateley Bridge some thirty years earlier, this, in turn, must also have contributed to the show’s success.

The concept to promote farming and food production has obviously worked, as today livestock exhibitors and judges come from all over the country, creating a need for both local and open classes in some sections.

As I and others have proven, if you can get into the tickets at Nidderdale Show you stand a pretty good chance at The Great Yorkshire Show of doing the same!

However it has not all been plain sailing, riding the storms of the peaks and troughs agriculture has been subjected over the years, including two world wars and food rationing books as examples.

Nidderdale Show has also not forgotten the importance of sharing this event with visitors, where the rural crafts and produce sections, including the educational aspects of the show, promote the social and rural way of life that still exists in Nidderdale and the surrounding region.

Coming back to the public in general, it is more important now than at any other time during the last 130 years to keep them on board, supporting our industry and “Buying British”. 

The Nidderdale Show show cases that we produce some of the finest food in the world, to the highest possible welfare standards, whilst being mindful of the environment, with the vast number of visitors to our region paying tribute to the latter.

Within all this, the show provides an all encompassing back drop, ensuring that visitors turn up in large numbers year after year.