The Ultimate Guide to the Game Fair: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Matthew Holland
The Glastonbury of the green welly brigade, the Wimbledon of the wax jacket wearer, there's a point (if you're me, it's usually somewhere between the gun stand and the third hog roast van) where every country sports lover remembers why the Game Fair is worth the trip.
Now in its 68th year, it's the annual gathering for everyone who loves the British countryside, bringing three packed days of field sports, food, dogs, horses, fishing, falconry, and more kit than you can sensibly justify to the table.
This year the Game Fair returns to the magnificent Ragley Hall in Alcester, Warwickshire, from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 July 2026, with gates opening from 9am–6pm daily.
So, whether you're a regular, a first-timer, or someone who's finally crossing it off the tick list, this guide covers what to expect, what to wear, and the tips that actually make a difference this year at the Game Fair 2026.
The History and Heart of the UK Game Fair
The Game Fair certainly has its fair share of history. Starting in 1958, it was originally known as the CLA Game Fair for over fifty years, before it was saved from closure in 2015, and run independently ever since. In that time, it's been hosted at over 28 different country estates across Britain- which I think most of us can admit, is half of the appeal. A travelling show means a fresh, country backdrop every few years, and there's always something new to find even for those who, like me, have been going for decades. I’m not biased when I say this either, but this year's setting, Ragley Hall, is a particularly good one…
However, the event itself is only part of the story. What makes the Game Fair genuinely worth the trip is also the people it brings to it. Country sports enthusiasts, conservationists, gamekeepers, curious newcomers, all in the same place, all talking about the same things. If you’re passionate about country sports, or even just the countryside, the conversations that happen here are as valuable as anything on the programme.
For many in the country sports community, it's simply the social highlight of the year, and it's worth saying that this isn't a closed club either. First-timers and families are as welcome as seasoned Guns. So if you've ever wondered whether the Game Fair is for you, I can tell you that it almost certainly is.
What to Do at the Game Fair: A Taste of What Awaits
Here's the truth about the Game Fair: one day is never quite enough. The programme is vast, and the temptation to wander is very real, so my advice is: pick one or two fixed points and leave the rest open to where the tents take you. The best moments are usually the unplanned one, after all.
That said, here's a few places to start:
Carter Jonas Game Fair Theatre:
BASC Wild Food Kitchen Theatre:
The Landing Stage Fishing Theatre:
Gunmakers Row:
Guns, gunsmithing, and the craft of British firearms. If you know anything about shooting then you know Gunmakers' Row is a destination in itself.
Working Dog Ring:
If you’re more for canines than cartridges, the gundog demonstrations and scurries are a must, and great for all the family too.
Main Arena:
It wouldn’t be the Game Fair without the main arena. With live demonstrations throughout the whole day, it’s worth checking the timetable in advance and getting in there.
This year’s highlights:
Have a Go:
If you’ve ever wanted to ‘give it a try’ clay shooting, air rifles, archery, fishing, and the BASC Shootline, they’re all bookable, and they fill quickly. The Weber Grill Academy is worth a look too if you fancy something a little different- but make sure to book ahead.
Celebrity Guests in 2026:
Enjoy a slice of celebrity with Dick & Angel Strawbridge, Henry Cole, Marco Pierre White, and Merlin Griffiths all appearing this year. You can check the official programme at thegamefair.org for session times.
The Shopping Village:
Hundreds of exhibitors from country clothing, footwear and fieldsports kit to gunmakers, optics, knives, art, and even home interiors, it’s the kind of specialist browsing you simply can't replicate online. Worth a proper wander, and possibly a bigger boot of the car than you planned for….
Food & Drink:
Get the tastebuds tingling with game dishes, artisan wild food, and a solid field fare selection for every palate- you certainly won't go hungry here. And if you’re really splashing out, the VIP Enclosure, sponsored by JM Finn, is worth considering if you want to step it up a level.
Planning Your Visit: The Game Fair 2026 Tickets, Travel, and Visitor Information
Now for the slightly boring, but practical bit worth reading, because, I know I said see where the day takes you, but a little planning goes a long way at an event this size.
Tickets:
As always, book in advance for the best pricing. BASC members receive complimentary entry plus 20% off additional guest tickets, which is worth knowing if you're bringing someone along. You can book online at thegamefair.org.
Getting There:
Parking is free and on-site, which is always a nice touch. Ragley Hall, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5NJ is the one you need for the sat-nav. If you’re not driving, the nearest train station is Evesham, roughly seven miles away, with a shuttle service usually available as the event approaches. Check thegamefair.org/travel-information for the latest.
When to Go:
It’s always a busy affair, but Friday is usually the quietest day, and Saturday is the busiest. Arrive early, as the first hour is the best time to browse the trade stands before the arenas get going. If you can manage two days, definitely do it. One is never quite enough.. plus the tents don’t just stop at sellers…
Staying Over:
Camping and glamping are available on-site, but book early, as local accommodation fills quickly around Game Fair weekend. And rightly so, too, with the official hotel partner for 2026 Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa.
Dogs:
Of course, man’s best friend is always very welcome. Lead, collapsible water bowl, and paw wipes for the car home…plus a few treats that ‘fell in the bag’ along the way.
Accessibility:
Event Mobility scooter hire is available on-site. See thegamefair.org/accessibility for full details.
What to Wear: Looking the Part at the Game Fair
I've done the Game Fair in everything from full Harkila tweed to a Hoggs of Fife shirt and Chelsea boots, and I can tell you the golden rule: smart enough for the occasion, practical enough for six hours on your feet, and yes, tweed gets very hot even if it rains in July. But get that balance right and you won't regret a thing.
Footwear
The most important decision of the day- apart from what’s for lunch. If the forecast looks dry, the Blundstone Classic 585 Chelsea Boots are hard to beat. They’re comfortable all day, smart enough for the showground. And if the weather's less certain, your favourite field boots are always a sensible call. New boots on Game Fair day is an error you only make once.
Layers
July is glorious, until it isn't. A country shirt with a lightweight gilet over the top covers most eventualities. The Hoggs of Fife Lindores Quilted Gilet is a solid choice- windproof, shower-resistant, and smart enough to wear all day, rain or shine. Bring something packable for the afternoon too, just in case.
The rest of it
Moleskin or cord trousers, a good country shirt, a flat cap and you're good. Comfort is key, nobody's overdressed, nobody looks out of place- even if you want to go the whole hog in head to toe tweed. The Hoggs of Fife Herringbone Waterproof Tweed Flat Cap ticks both the style and practical boxes if the heavens do open.
Bags
As much as you say you won’t, you will buy things. A canvas game bag or compact rucksack is worth bringing along. The Jack Pyke Countryman Fleece Gilet pockets help too, but they'll only go so far.
Some Things Are Worth Making the Journey For
The Game Fair isn't just an event, but a reminder of why we do all of this. The people, the sport, the conversations, the kit you didn't know you needed until you saw it. I really do think there's a sense of community here that's hard to find anywhere else, and it's why, year after year, it keeps people going back.
If you've been meaning to go, this is the year to stop meaning to, and get to the Game Fair.
Book your tickets at thegamefair.org, and explore the full SCS range to arrive looking the part this year.
All images in this blog post are credited to the official Game Fair Instagram Page.
Author
Matthew Holland
Matt Holland is passionate about sharing tips on enjoying the British countryside. From field sports to woodland walks, Matt is a proud enthusiast of all country pursuits, with a keen interest in country sports and the heritage, traditions, and tales they offer. Living and working in the beautiful Cheshire countryside, Matt combines his love for rural life with practical advice, helping others make the most of the seasons while embracing the thrill of country sports and the beauty of country life.
