It’s a balmy summer day in the British countryside when all of a sudden, a loud shot rings out. In the distance, hunting dogs are barking as falcons swoop up and down the fields. This field day is like no other. Between an array of shotgun brands on display, farm-to-plate marquees and having front row seats at Shetland pony races, one has to attend all three days of the Game Fair to make sure they’re getting the most out of this glamorous event. 

The Game Fair is an annual event that merges countryside activities, land management and field sports with a touch of glitz and glamour. Within the three days of this affair, hundreds of brands from the Great British countryside, hands-on activities and organic food will all be served up to those most interested. It is the biggest show of its kind, permanently held at Ragley Hall and its surrounding terrain. Countryside pursuits will have at their disposal a comprehensive and full range itinerary to satisfy all their outdoor activity fantasies. 

The late Nigel Gray established this very British affair in 1958. The story goes a little like this. On the second day of Crufts — an annual dog show — gamekeepers would meet to display their gun dogs. Nevertheless, they wanted an event solely dedicated to this niche sport. Mr Gray thus planned a gathering of the shooting community and when the Country Land & Business Association agreed to sponsor the event, the Game Fair was born. Over 60 years later and it has since grown to hosting over 100,000 countryside fanatics annually. 

The Game Fair boasts Europe’s longest shooting line, giving visitors the possibility to experience a relaxing mid-summer shoot out. Either that, or there is also the possibility to test one’s skills with their open competitions. Yes, there are prizes for the winners and runner-ups. From shotguns, airguns and rifles, the event gathers an array of stands in the renowned Gunmaker’s Row. Some of the featured brands include Boss & Co, Ray Ward Gunsmith, and Smith & Torok. Clay pigeon shooting is a popular one among the visitors; so much so that it can take event organizers one week after the fair to clear up all the remnant clays and cartridges. Disclaimer: no pigeons are harmed during the shooting of the clay disks — unless they get in the way.

If sporting activities just aren’t cutting it, the theatre is the place to be. Every year the event invites a lineup of field experts, avid professionals and celebrities to have it on the stage. A number of serious topics ranging from ethics to seasonal prospects will be discussed, debated and probed. Depending on the speakers, it can get quite heated so debate club experience does come in handy.

Calling all the ladies to the stage — or the dirt pathways in this case. The best dressed woman will win a prize as the annual Ladies’ Day takes place. Summer dresses, flamboyant hats and dressed-up wellies are definitely the way to go.

Food and drink don’t get left on the back burner at this very field-sport centered fair. Whilst it may the norm to attend these types events with the expectation of finding the first hotdog stand to quickly lunch on, much of the Game Fair land is dedicated to nutrition. There is even a kitchen theatre where visitors go to feel inspired whilst educating them on sustainable sourced meat and produce. Expert chefs take turns to transform local agriculture into culinary delights to sample on. 

The great British countryside produce doesn’t stop there however. There is a more luxury and exclusive experience that includes stepping away from the excitement and crowds of the event at the Game Fair Enclosure. Premium visitors can enjoy a bespoke three-course lunch menu by celebrity chef, James Martin. He is known to be a keen countryman and knows how to transform local and sustainable ingredients into the perfect game meal. With a range of premium packages to choose from, the enclosure paired with a private cash bar and ringside seats with a view will guarantee an unforgettable end to an activity-packed weekend. 

A rustic yet elegant day out at Ragley Hall, one to go solo, as a couple or as a family. There is no other field sport day out quite like at the Game Fair. Whilst all the activities are quite hands-on, the luxury touch is not hard to find. Visitors can choose to watch as riders get flung off their horses or they can sit back and enjoy an exclusive, bespoke meal. There really is something for everyone.