Poultry Make Triumphant Return to Royal Cornwall Show
Birds Back on Display After Five-Year Absence
The Royal Cornwall Showground near Wadebridge is buzzing with anticipation this week as poultry exhibitors return to one of Cornwall’s most anticipated agricultural events. For the first time since 2019, visitors will witness the full spectacle of competitive bird displays—a cornerstone of the show that nearly disappeared during the pandemic and subsequent bird flu outbreaks.
Exhibitor Andrew Marment, who’s been showing birds for decades, describes the past five years as genuinely tough. Between Covid lockdowns shutting down gatherings and repeated avian flu restrictions preventing poultry competitions, many dedicated breeders lost momentum. Marment notes a concerning trend: some enthusiasts simply moved on to other pursuits like fishing rather than waiting for restrictions to lift.
For those planning a visit this week, it’s worth making the trip to see these magnificent birds. Whether you’re combining it with a visit to nearby attractions like Fistral Beach or planning a broader Newquay weekend getaway, the show offers something for all ages. Young families often enjoy the poultry classes alongside the broader show attractions, making it an excellent reason to go to Newquay or explore the wider North Cornwall region.
What Makes This Show Special to Our Community
The Royal Cornwall Show isn’t just about poultry—it’s about preserving agricultural tradition and bringing rural communities together. Running Thursday through Saturday at the Showground near Wadebridge, this year’s event promises tens of thousands of visitors exploring nearly 1,000 trade stands, livestock competitions, food stalls, and live entertainment.
The show’s roots run deep. What began in 1793 as a simple ploughing match has evolved into a celebration of Cornish farming, food production, and rural life that attracts visitors from across the Southwest and beyond. Judge Chris Burrows emphasizes how meaningful it is to see poultry back: “It’s really nice to get out and see some birds at a show again.”
For local farmers and agricultural businesses, this annual gathering serves as a crucial reconnection point. Mark Stoddard, the show secretary, notes the energy on opening days has been genuinely positive, with genuine excitement from exhibitors and visitors alike. The Young Farmers tent has been particularly popular, drawing crowds keen to engage with the next generation keeping rural traditions alive. If you haven’t experienced this iconic event, this year offers the perfect opportunity to see our region’s agricultural heart on display.
Plan Your Visit and Support Local Farming
Whether you’re a dedicated poultry enthusiast, a farming family, or simply curious about rural life, the Royal Cornwall Show deserves space in your calendar this week. Located near Wadebridge—easily accessible if you’re planning to go to Newquay for a broader holiday or weekend trip—the showground welcomes all ages and interests.
Many visitors combine the show with coastal activities; if you’re staying locally and looking for dog friendly accommodation in the Newquay area, the region offers excellent options for those wanting to explore Fistral Beach and other attractions between showground visits. The show itself is a family-friendly day out where you’ll discover where your food comes from and meet the people working hard to sustain rural Cornwall.
Supporting the Royal Cornwall Show means supporting local farmers, breeders, and agricultural businesses who’ve weathered genuine challenges over recent years. The return of poultry competitions signals hope and recovery for this community. Attendance matters—it shows these events remain valued by residents and visitors alike. Bring the family, wear comfortable shoes, explore the trade stands, and enjoy authentic Cornish rural hospitality. Details about times, tickets, and what to expect are available through the show’s official channels. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the farming heritage that defines our region.
Source: Poultry return to Royal Cornwall Show after bird flu disruption
