Frequently asked questions about the Show
We operate a strict no dogs policy at Balmoral Show with the exception of those taking part in displays or assistance dogs. Visitors with dogs will not be able to enter the Show. Dogs are not permitted to remain in cars in the car parks due to the risk of heat exhaustion.
Discounted pre-Show tickets can be purchased online until 4pm the Tuesday of Show week and are automatically emailed to the customer. Normal priced tickets can still be purchased online after this time.
Tickets are day specific or can be an any day tickets, depending on what was purchased.
Opening times are: Wednesday 9.30 – 18.00, Thursday 9.30 – 20.00 Friday 9.30 – 19.00 Saturday 9.30 – 18.00.
There will be an entrance point at the Main Public Entrance open from 8am each morning to accommodate visitors who wish to see early morning livestock classes.
Disabled parking is available for people in possession of a blue badge, this is on a first come first served basis. There are disabled access toilets across the site. This year the Show will also be providing a high dependency changing unit. The H.D.U incorporates many facilities for the disabled including a fully automatic tracking hoist, height-adjustable changing couch, support hand rails for ease of movement, and emergency call alarm. There is more than adequate space in the changing area for the disabled person and up to two carers. A centrally placed toilet with room either side for the carers, and a curtain to allow the disabled person and carer some privacy. This will be located between the Welfare unit and Fair Price Mobility unit at the Main Public Entrance 1.
To hire a mobility scooter for the Show contact Fair Price Mobility on 07850175620
With so much happening over the 4 days, you’ll be entertained from dawn to dusk. We have arranged our programme so that many activities are on several times a day, this means you can catch them when it suits you. Pick up a copy of the free Map & Timetable when you arrive at the Show or check online in advance.
The Balmoral Show is organised by the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS). You can find out more about the Society and about becoming a member on the membership section of the website.
Once inside the showgrounds you can experience the Show without spending another penny. All demonstrations, exhibitions, grandstand seating and entertainment are free for all to enjoy. You may need to buy something to eat or drink, however with so many tasters available in the Food Hall you might need less than you think and you are welcome to bring a picnic.
First aid is provided at the First Aid Centre, situated in the centre of the showgrounds. Ask a steward or official for assistance.
There are toilets located throughout the showgrounds. This includes disabled toilets, baby changing and breast feeding facilities.
There are baby changing and feeding facilities provided at the Show.
Smoking is NOT PERMITTED in any enclosed building or space including in any of the Marquees.
The Balmoral Show attracts big crowds. This will inevitably result in some delays in entering the site at peak times. Using public transport can enhance your journey. For further info visit the Getting to the Show section of our website. Our best advice is to arrive early and purchase advance tickets so you can gain entry to the site quickly and efficiently.
We have invested heavily in improving our car parking facilities to keep delays to a minimum. Car parking attendants will guide you to a space.
Car parking is £8 per car. We are encouraging show-goers to make use of public transport and have worked with bus operators to ensure convenient drop off and pick up points.
Yes, please ask the attendant on the gate to stamp your hand.
The Balmoral Show is a must for younger visitors – and it’s FREE for Under 5s to enter. The Children’s Farm is a highlight for children of all ages. You can view the Show timetable to help plan your visit. Free wristbands are available at the Show to write a parent/guardian’s phone number on which helps ensure that you are quickly reunited with your child should you become separated. These can be collected from all entrances.
There is a taxi rank outside the Main Show entrance.
The Show will run from 15th-18th May 2019
The majority of the Show has a rolling programme over the 4 days, so you can see the same things every day. Certain classes of competitions are only held on particular days and Thursday is the main day for Young Farmers activities.
RUAS Membership allows entry to the Members’ Area with a private dining room and views overlooking the Main Arena. Corporate tickets are also available in advance of the Show.
We have hundreds of quality trade stands brimming with lovely things to buy including homeware, garden furniture, fashion, artwork and jewellery. The Eikon Shopping Village has everything from food to furnishings, coats to ceramics and shoes to sweaters.
Results of showing classes are available on the Show’s website under the Competitions tab.