THE PEMBROKESHIRE County Show has got off to a busy start this morning (Wednesday, August 20), with car parks filling quickly and crowds already flocking to the showground.

Organisers confirmed that public parking at Gate 6 reached full capacity early in the day, with visitors now being directed to use Gate 5. A map of the showground is available on the official show website to help people plan their visit.

The show was officially opened earlier this morning by this year’s Presidents, Tim and Margaret Johns, alongside the County Show Ambassador, Alys Owens.

Thousands are expected to attend across the two days of the event, which showcases the very best of farming, food, crafts, and entertainment in Pembrokeshire.

This year’s show also features several new additions, including a live dinosaur experience from Rentadinosaur, offering meet-and-greets and interactive shows for younger visitors. A newly expanded Taste of Wellbeing Zone offers everything from reflexology and nutrition advice to mental health support and counselling. The Castell Howell-sponsored Food Hall has moved to a new location, while the Country Market returns with over 60 artisan stalls. Crowds have also been gathering to see the Gentle Giant Black Shire Horses from Moylegrove, and with GCSE results day falling on Thursday (Aug 21), a dedicated careers area will be available with representatives from emergency services, the military, Pembrokeshire College, and the Hywel Dda Health Board.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of attractions, including over 40 artisan stalls in the Country Market area, a lively fairground, showjumping displays, dog agility demonstrations, vintage machinery, horticultural exhibitions, and countryside sports displays. There are also falconry shows, wood carving demonstrations, sheepdog trials, and a dedicated children’s activity zone featuring crafts, face painting and storytelling.

New for 2025 is the “Taste of Wellbeing” zone, where attendees can explore healthy food options, wellness advice, and self-care products. The Learning Pavilion is hosting talks and interactive sessions on sustainability, biodiversity, and farm safety.

The Milford Waterfront pop-up market is also on site in Zone A, opposite the Castell Howell Food Hall, showcasing Pembrokeshire businesses and local produce, including artisan cheeses, baked goods, handmade gifts, and local art. The Castell Howell Food Hall itself hosts chef demonstrations and food sampling throughout the day.

Live music will be performed throughout the day on the main entertainment stage, with performances from local bands, folk groups and school choirs. A Grand Parade of prize-winning animals and vehicles will take place as a show finale on Thursday afternoon.

Tickets are priced at £17 for adults and £8 for children aged five to sixteen, with under-fives and carers entering free of charge. Tickets are valid for either day but can only be used once. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. Free onsite parking is available, and dogs on leads are welcome throughout the grounds.

Haverfordwest train station is just two miles from the showground, and shuttle services and bus connections are available. For those arriving by car, stewards are on hand to direct vehicles and ensure smooth entry. Disabled parking and accessible facilities are provided.

The show features hundreds of exhibitors and expects up to 10,000 visitors across both days. A wide range of competitions are taking place, including livestock showing, equine classes, pig and poultry judging, and homecraft, cookery, and produce contests.

The Craft & Horticulture section includes cut flowers, vegetables, preserves, baking, and children’s art. Prize-giving for these events will be held at 4:15pm on Thursday in the Parkhouse Exhibition Centre. All trophies and exhibits must be collected by 5:30pm.

Navigating the showground

The 2025 Pembrokeshire County Show is divided into several themed zones to help visitors make the most of their day:

• Zone A includes the Agriculture & Machinery displays, Dog Agility Arena, Vintage Tractors, and the Livestock Arena. This is where you’ll find cattle, sheep, pigs, and poultry competitions, alongside heavy machinery and trade stands.
• Zone B covers the Crafts & Horticulture, West Wales Wool, Young Farmers area (YFC), and the Learning Pavilion. This area is close to main food courts, coffee stands, and information points.
• Zone D is home to the Equine Rings, Show Jumping Ring, Horse Walk, and the Milford Waterfront Pop-Up Market near the Country Market and Countryside Park. The Funfair and Public Catering Bar are also in this zone, with toilets and a water refill point nearby.

Entrances and access:

• Main public access is through Gate 5 and Gate 6.
• Gate 1 is used for livestock vehicles, Gate 3 for coach drop-offs, and Gate 4 for equine exhibitors.
• There is free public parking near Gate 5 and additional parking for badge holders and disabled visitors.
• First Aid stations are located near the Poultry section and near Gate 2.

Facilities:

• Toilets, including disabled access, are clearly marked.
• Bars, coffee stalls, and food outlets are distributed throughout the grounds.
• Mobility hire and information offices are near Gate 5 and the central shopping avenue.

A downloadable version of the map is available at pembsshow.org to help plan your visit.

Organisers say the show is a chance to celebrate Pembrokeshire’s farming heritage and community spirit, while also supporting local businesses and rural innovation. The event acts as a key gathering point for producers, tradespeople, educators and families alike.

Full competition schedules and downloadable maps are available on the official website. For more information and tickets, visit www.pembsshow.org