Whittington Craft & Country Fair — Saturday 5th September 2026

Twenty-two years ago, the Parish Council launched the Whittington Craft & Country Fair to show off the village as a vibrant community. This year's fair looks back to those days, celebrating the crafts of the country, the life and the animals that make our village and landscape what they are.

The theme for 2026 is putting craft and country back into the Fair. The full line-up is set out in What to Expect below, but the arena is where the heart of it lies: heavy horses, sheep dog trials, falconry, and The Lamb National sheep racing, with Rock Choir returning to perform.

The committee has worked hard to offer a new approach this year and to show that we listen to feedback. Despite rising costs, we are delighted to have reduced the price of entry: adults £8, over-60s £5, and children just £1.

The Fair could not happen without an army of volunteers. There are numerous roles available, from manning the entrances and site preparation to marquee erecting, traffic control and people management on the day. If you can offer your assistance for the whole day or just a couple of hours, please contact us at wccf2026@gmail.com or on 07818 045596.

All profits from the day go towards the Village Fair Fund, from which grants are available to village groups and organisations to enhance our many village amenities.

We look forward to seeing you there and we hope the weather is kind to us all.

What to Expect

  • In the arena
    Heavy horses from Waldburgh Shires, whose team draw the Lord Mayor of London's gold state coach each November. Sheep Dog Trials. Falconry displays from Toras Falconry, with owls, hawks and falcons. The Lamb National — Herdwick sheep racing, as featured on BBC Countryfile. And Rock Choir, returning after their performances in previous years.

    Animals and countryside
    Alpacas and rare-breed sheep in the live animal area, dog training events, and the Play Days Dog Show with eight categories to enter on the day.

    Heritage and machinery
    Classic vehicles, vintage tractors and farming machinery, and steam engines on display. Tractor rides throughout the day, plus farm tours running at 11.30am, 1.15pm and 2.15pm.

    Crafts and stalls
    Craft stalls throughout the craft and central areas, with local makers, artisan producers and community groups. The Wintertons Fine Antiques marquee, with TV personality Richard Winterton.

    Competitions
    The Whittington Allotment Produce Competition, with 17 fruit and vegetable categories. Whittington WI's Ginger Cake competition for adults and Gingerbread Men competition for children.

    Food and drink
    Street Food Alley, with cuisine from around the world — Italian, Indian, Greek, burgers, ice cream, crepes and more. The Pavilion café serving teas, coffee and cakes. A licensed bar in the food area.

    Music
    Rock Choir in the main arena. Live music in the Pavilion throughout the day, including Chris Newcombe and the Evie Ranford Duo.

    For children
    Sporting activities including archery, football and triathlon. Punch and Judy. A wooden play area. And wandering entertainers throughout the day — keep an eye out for minions and Rapunzel.

    Practical information
    Gates open 10am, Fair closes 4pm. Bit End Field, Whittington, WS14 9LQ. Visitor and disabled parking on site. Admission: adults £8, over-60s £5, children £1. Tickets on the gate.