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markets · Saturday 25 July 2026 · 9:00am 
Antrim Agricultural Show 2026
At Shanes Castle Estate · Shanes Castle Estate, Antrim, Co. Antrim, BT41 4NE
At Shanes Castle Estate · Shanes Castle Estate, Antrim, Co. Antrim, BT41 4NE
One of Northern Ireland’s longest-running county shows returns to the grounds of Shanes Castle Estate on Saturday 25 July 2026, marking its 120th year under the care of Antrim Agricultural Society. This is a proper agricultural show in the old tradition - livestock in the ring, horses jumping, skilled shearers at work, baking and floral art competing in the marquees - set against the ancient woodland and Lough Neagh shoreline that make Shanes Castle one of the most impressive show grounds in Ulster. It suits families, farming folk, and anyone who wants a full summer’s day out without driving to a city.
The show runs from 9am and there is a full day’s programme across several rings and marquees. In the main livestock arena, cattle and sheep from across the county compete for breed championships. The Sheep Shearing Marquee draws skilled competitive shearers demonstrating serious speed and technique. Equestrian classes run throughout the day - show jumping and showing classes - and the programme often continues past the main closing time.
Away from the rings, the Home Industries marquee hosts entries in photography, crafts, floral art, fruit, vegetables and baking - the kind of competition that rewards a proper look around. Co. Antrim Young Farmers Clubs bring their games, adding a lively team element to proceedings. Trade stands cover agricultural machinery and products as well as local crafts and food, and there are children’s amusements and live music through the afternoon. The 2026 show is also supporting Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice as its charity of the year.
Tickets cost £12.50 for adults in advance, with youth (12-17) at £10 and under-12s free. Car parking on-site is complimentary.
Shanes Castle Estate sits on the outskirts of Antrim town, well signposted off the A26 Ballymena Road. Antrim is one of the better-connected towns in the north - the M2 motorway reaches Belfast in around 25 minutes, and the A26 north links to Ballymena. Translink operates regular bus and rail services into Antrim from both Belfast and Ballymena; the train station is in the town centre, a short taxi or bus ride from the estate. On show day, follow the event signage from the main road - parking is free and on-site, which makes a difference at a large outdoor event.
Shanes Castle itself has a striking ruined tower and walled garden worth a look if you arrive early before the show crowd builds. The estate’s narrow-gauge railway, which runs along the Lough Neagh shore, has its own events through the summer. There is more to see in Antrim and across Co. Antrim.
Heading to Shanes Castle Estate in Antrim? Antrim has plenty more to see. Read the Antrim area guide, find what else is on, and explore the towns and villages nearby.