Royal Highland Show delivers outstanding event in its 176th year
Over 187,000 visitors flocked to the Royal Highland Show over the last four days – with Friday playing host to 47,990 exhibitors, farmers, food producers and business owners, as well as the general public, who were digesting the results of the Brexit vote.
The historic announcement failed to engulf Scotland’s biggest celebration of farming, food and rural life, which saw 7000 of the UK’s finest livestock compete for £225,000 of prize money and 280 trophies worth around £2,000,000.
Following closely behind the livestock in terms of popularity was the Show’s revamped 13th Avenue Arcade, which featured an array of luxury retailers, offering fine furniture, jewellery and art along with a new Prosecco bar. Over £8million is estimated to have been spent on shopping at the event.
Two new themed bars, the Botanical Garden, serving Scottish gins, and The Stetson, proved popular additions, with live music, food and quirky themes. The show dance, held each night, attracted in the region of 6,000 revelers over the four days (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday).
Over 30,000 children attended the Show for free over the four days, with many learning about food, farming and the countryside at the Royal Highland Education Trust’s Education Centre.
Commenting on the success of the 176th Show, Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) chairman, Willie Gill, said: “Once again the Royal Highland Show has proven that, along with being the country’s premier exhibition for the finest livestock, it is one of Scotland’s favourite days out. It is also a great stage on which to do business, and we know that a number of deals have been struck over the four days, which is great to hear.
“A lot of planning goes into this event and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of our exhibitors, sponsors, staff and visitors, without whom the Show wouldn’t be able happen, and who enable the of RHASS to carry out its charitable remit of promoting and protecting the interests of land based industries here in Scotland.
We are looking forward to seeing everyone back here in 2017 for what will be the 177th Royal Highland Show.”
Image: Royal Highland Show 2016, Ingliston, Edinburgh. Credit, Craig Stephen.