The Game Fair 2025 is just around the corner, and we couldn’t be more excited! As one of Britain’s most iconic countryside events, it’s a true celebration of rural traditions, field sports, family fun, and outdoor living.
Whether you’re a seasoned visitor or planning your very first trip, this year’s edition promises something for everyone: from dog shows and expert talks to artisan shopping and great food.
Here’s everything you need to know before heading to Ragley Hall this July.
The Game Fair: A British Summer Tradition Like No Other
If there’s one thing the British countryside takes pride in, it’s tradition – kept alive through the years and passed down from one generation to the next. The very first Game Fair was held in 1958 at Stetchworth Park, and at the time, the focus was almost entirely on country sports like clay pigeon shooting, archery practice, and rifle displays. The big finale? A cinema show, which was considered quite the innovation back then.
If you’re curious about its history, take a look at the full programme in this image:
Credit: The Game Fair 1958 Archive, by Charlotte Peters. For more information, visit https://thegamefair.org/the-first-ever-game-fair-in-1958-whats-changed-whats-stayed-the-same/
The Game Fair was created as a meeting place for rural communities, a space to take part in shared pastimes, spend time with family and friends, and get to know new people.
Back in the 1950s and 60s, attendance ranged between 8,000 and 15,000 people. These days, it draws over 120,000 visitors each year, proving that interest in the fair is stronger than ever.
This year marks its 67th anniversary, and while some things may look a little different, the spirit of tradition remains very much alive.
When and Where is The Game Fair 2025?
If you don’t want to miss one of the most iconic events of the summer, make sure to save these dates: The Game Fair takes place over the weekend of 25–27 July at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire.
The gates open from 8 am each day, with stands and exhibitors kicking off at 9 am. On Friday and Saturday, you can enjoy talks, displays, and activities from 9 am to 6 pm, and on Sunday things wrap up slightly earlier, at 5 pm.
If you’ve never been to Ragley Hall before, getting there is super easy. It’s located just southwest of the village of Alcester and around eight miles west of Stratford-upon-Avon. You can find the official directions provided by The Game Fair organisers, visiting travel information in this website.
One thing to keep in mind: from the main entrance to the fairground itself, there’s a walk of about 20 minutes (roughly 1.5 miles) with a gentle uphill slope.
For guests with limited mobility, it’s recommended to contact the venue directly ahead of time to make suitable arrangements for easier access.
What to Expect This Year
This year is all about bringing countryside traditions into 2025, with a fresh twist. Alongside the much-loved sporting events, you’ll also find masterclasses, VIP talks, and a renewed environmental commitment from The Game Fair, ensuring the protection of local wildlife and flora, as well as the welfare of all animals involved in the events.
Country Pursuits, Field Sports & Family Fun
The Game Fair offers fun for the whole family, with something for every taste and interest. The main highlights are the countryside sports events, where traditional British practices such as rifle shooting, archery, and equestrian displays take centre stage.
That said, the dog shows and competitions are also a big hit with visitors of all ages – and thanks to strict animal welfare rules set by the organisers, you can rest assured that all animals are well looked after.
In addition to the action-packed events, there will be expert talks on sport, food, and farming taking place throughout the weekend. You can also expect live music performances and outdoor games – some just for the little ones, and others for the whole family to enjoy – so get ready to dance, laugh, and make the most of it all.
Lifestyle, Food & Rural Shopping
Families are more than welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy the beautiful venue – just be sure to tidy up afterwards. That said, The Game Fair is also the perfect excuse to sample some of the best regional food from a variety of stalls.
Foodies can look forward to culinary experiences like the BASC Wild Food Taster Tepee, drinks by the renowned Merlin Griffiths. For the VIP Enclosure pass holders, you can already browse the menus for each day.
For those who love to shop, The Game Fair is a true haven. With over 800 exhibitors, you’ll find everything from clothing to field sports equipment.
But shopping at the fair is nothing like popping into a shopping centre, you’ll meet passionate people eager to tell you about their brand, their values, and what sets them apart.
So don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation and make a few new discoveries along the way.
Camping and Glamping Options
If you want to make the most of The Game Fair and keep the fun going all weekend long, staying on-site is a brilliant option – whether you prefer camping or glamping.
The camping area welcomes both tents and motorhomes, with a choice between powered and non-powered pitches depending on your budget. For a better idea of the layout, you can check out the full map here.
Glamping, on the other hand, is the ultimate in countryside comfort and style. With breakfast and dinner options available, 24-hour security, communal spaces for relaxing with friends, lawn games, and hot showers available throughout the day, it’s the perfect choice for those who love the outdoors but don’t want to compromise on comfort.
Hartwell Countrywear at The Game Fair
At Hartwell Clothing, we believe tradition goes beyond clothing—which is why we’re proud to have been part of The Game Fair for many years.
At our stand, you’ll be able to explore our latest collections, enjoy exclusive deals, and shop your favourite pieces directly.
We absolutely love connecting with our customers during The Game Fair, so bring along all your questions – we’ll be more than happy to chat. If you’d like to learn more about Hartwell’s commitment to sustainability, our values, or what makes our clothing stand out, this is the perfect opportunity to do so.
Hartwell at last year’s GameFair. Do come and see us on the main Shopping lane between 25-27th July 2025.
Create Your Countryside Look with Hartwell Countrywear
Clothing has always been part of countryside tradition—and The Game Fair is the perfect place to honour that heritage with stylish, rural-inspired outfits.
We’ve got a full article with The Best Outfits for a Getaway in the Countryside if you’re looking for ideas, but here are three timeless staples you simply can’t go wrong with:
The SUZANNE White Luxury Cotton Sateen Shirt is a wonderfully elegant piece, with a distinctive collar detail that adds a fun twist to a classic look. The crisp white shade is ideal for warm summer days.
Pair it with our ROSIE Luxury Cotton Stretch Jeans, as they will elevate your outfit, yet you will be comfortable enough to stroll through the fair or relax at a picnic without feeling too tight.
And when the countryside breeze starts to pick up in the late afternoon, top off your look with the KATRINA Black Velvet Quilted Gilet.
It’s lighter than a full jacket, so you won’t overheat, but it’ll keep your core warm and cosy as the day winds down.
If you want to style yourself for the Game Fair on a budget, check out the Hartwell OUTLET page, with all pieces reduced to just £29.99.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Weekend at Ragley Hall
At Hartwell, we’re already looking forward to a fantastic weekend this July – meeting all of you and sharing our love for the British countryside.
Come and join us for this one-of-a-kind event, packed with exciting activities, delicious food, and the very best of countryside life all in one place.