There’s nothing quite as British as an annual game or country fair. Sadly, these have been much missed over the last 12 months because of the pandemic, but the fantastic news is “they are back” as you may have read in our recent blog “three cheers for the game fair”.
Mark the dates of July 23rd to the 25th for the 2021 Game Fair at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire. A great opportunity for our loyal Hartwell customers to finally enjoy a game fair again, and to grab some photos to send to be included on our spotted in Hartwell page.
As anyone who has an interest in country pursuits will know, the Game Fair is a celebration of all things countryside, from animals to machinery and clothing to working tools.
They also include a splendid array of country food and drinks, and provide a unique day out for all the family or a social event with friends.
But how did it begin, and what is the history behind the game fair?
Who Was Behind The First One?
Over 60 years ago a visionary by the name of Mr Nigel Gray aspired to create a national fair to bring together landowners and gamekeepers and share their love of game shooting and to discuss promotional activity for the sport.
He involved Mr Charles Coles, who became a director at the Game Conservancy, which is now rebranded as the Wildlife Conservation Trust, and they decided to launch a trial show.
Held at Stetchworth outside Newmarket with displays and activities involving Clay Pigeon shooting, Falconry and Gundogs, it was a resounding success, and grew to the hugely successful gathering of thousands of followers of countryside pursuits that it is today.
The Game Fair 2021
The Game Fair has survived a few hard times, but now under the direction of the CLA (Country Living Association) the fair offers a fantastic array of attractions and exhibits to delight everyone who has an interest in the countryside and all its glory.
Attractions range from the traditional displays involving Horse & Hounds, Gun Dogs, Falconry and Gamekeeping to a great selection of some more modern day aspects of countryside living with displays and stalls featuring Glamping, Airguns, A County Kitchen with celebrity chefs and of course 4 x 4 vehicles.
Absolutely guaranteed to have something for everyone and plenty of interactive opportunities to get involved or you can just sit back and relax with fellow country-lovers and soak up the wonderful atmosphere while enjoying what has often been described as almost the beating heart of The Game Fair – “Great British Food” made from local produce and farm assured meat and game.
You will want to look your best, of course, so make sure you check out the Hartwell Website for our latest country-inspired prints, which we are sure will help you make that important statement and ensure you stand out in the crowds.
Happy Countryside Followers
So it’s joyful news for all of us, and the Hartwell team are really looking forward to attending.
Naturally we will be dressed to impress, make sure you join us.
Live well, dress well, Hartwell.
