1 week Ago
A popular countryside event is set to return this month. Spring Live! will take place at the South of England Showground in Ardingly, West Sussex, on April 26 and 27. The event will run from 9am to 5pm each day.
(Image: Beth Wild) The event, organised by the South of England Agricultural Society, will feature a range of activities and entertainment for all ages. Animal lovers will have the chance to meet a variety of creatures, including Sussex cattle, Hampshire Down sheep, and Tamworth pigs, subject to Defra Bluetongue restrictions. The Pygmy Goat Show will also make a return, and a Fun Dog Show will be held on Sunday.
(Image: Beth Wild) Throughout the weekend, visitors can participate in a range of hands-on activities. These include archery, axe throwing, bushcraft workshops, and wand-making workshops. (Image: Beth Wild) There will also be a chocolate workshop and a chance for children to plant pumpkin seeds to take home and grow for the Society’s Autumn Show.
For those seeking thrills, the event will offer mini monster trucks, miniature ride-on trains, a funfair, a circus skills workshop, and the opportunity to ride in a classic car. (Image: Beth Wild) Families can also follow the Kids’ Trail to explore the many free activities available across the showground, including ‘milking’ Clover the cow and hands-on Farming with Nature tasks. Spectators can cheer on the lawn mower racing, enjoy the Sheep Show, and watch the Morris and Clog Dancing performances.
(Image: Beth Wild) In the horticulture area, visitors can ask questions of the gardening experts, explore vintage machinery at the Museum of Gardening, and enjoy the spring floristry competition. There will also be hanging basket demonstrations where attendees can pick up skills and materials to create their own. Shopping enthusiasts can look forward to an extensive selection of clothes, jewellery, homeware, gifts, artisan food, and crafts showcasing local producers and independent makers.
(Image: Beth Wild) They can also pick up plants to brighten up their gardens. Corrie Ince, show director at the South of England Agricultural Society, said: "Spring Live! is a fantastic event for families and friends to come together, enjoy the fresh air, and experience all that the countryside has to offer. "With so many interactive activities, animals to meet, and entertainment to enjoy, there’s truly something for everyone, including canine companions, to make this a memorable weekend.
" Tickets for Spring Live! 2025 are available at www.seas.org.
uk and cost £13.95 for adults and £12.15 for seniors and students (inclusive of a 10 per cent discount until April 18).
Children under 16 go free, though a suggested donation of £2 per child is encouraged. Dogs are welcome but will not be permitted in indoor areas..
