Countryside Lincs Returns: Whats new for 2022 31 Mar

DETAILS for a range of brand-new, fun activities have been announced for this year’s Countryside Lincs, taking place at the Lincolnshire Showground on Sunday 10 April.

The family favourite event makes its return for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic with a grand celebration of animals, food, farming, and the countryside – providing an unforgettable day out.

There is a large array of entertainment coming to the Countryside Ring, including the East Lincs Basset Hounds, interactive falconry display, and BMX stunt show. Making their grand debut for 2022 are the Barlow Red Barrows. Inspired by the RAF Red Arrows, the group will be putting on a unique wheelbarrow display to music to raise money for local charities.

Also new for Countryside Lincs is the British Pig Association’s Junior Pig Club, part of a registered charity that encourages young people to learn about and get involved in pig-keeping and farming. Children participating will have the chance to showcase their skills on the featured pig agility course.

The ever-popular Sheep Show will also be returning, with various sheep breeds showing off their dance moves, with bonus educational elements and sheering demonstrations.

Jayne Southall, CEO of Lincolnshire Showground, said: “We’re delighted to be introducing a whole host of new activities for the return of Countryside Lincs this year, and to be welcoming visitors back to one of our most-loved events in the calendar. It’s a fantastic family-centric event, where every single activity is included in the ticket price, offering something for everyone across a packed timetable of activities in the Countryside Ring and nine different zones.”

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of animal encounters across the showground, including the world-famous Lincoln Longwool sheep and Lincoln Red cattle, among other interactive opportunities for young ones throughout the day. A new experience for 2022 will allow visitors to experience alpaca walking, with plenty of opportunities for alpaca selfies.

The Farmyard Zone will allow families the chance to meet lambs, rabbits, donkeys, guinea pigs, and other small farm animals. The Rare Breeds Survival Trust will also be bringing sheep and goats for youngsters to meet while educating on the importance of protecting wildlife.

A plethora of traditional activities can be found at the Make It Zone - a large crafting area to inspire the next generation - from willow weaving and candle rolling through to needle felting and more.

For people looking to challenge themselves, there will be opportunities to learn circus and rugby skills in the newly introduced Village Green area. They can also channel their inner Bear Grylls with Lincoln-based Wild Woodcraft’s adventurous activities or explore the showground on the tractor and trailer ride.

Jayne added: “In addition to the wide range of activities we have outside, the indoor Food Zone provides visitors with the opportunity to sample locally made and locally sourced treats, including pies, cheeses, and sweet treats along with other homemade crafts. Curtis of Lincoln will demonstrate Lincolnshire sausage making and are sure to be a hit with foodies.

“We’re also thrilled to be welcoming back Ladies in Pigs, a national, non-profit organisation that specialises in the education and promotion of British food and farming. The team will be hosting workshops to make your very own pork, plum and sage pasties.”

Debbie Wilson, chair at Ladies in Pigs, said: “We are delighted to be attending Countryside Lincs once again and cannot wait to meet everyone who visits. We are sure they will leave having experienced lots of fun things, while learning about food, farming and the countryside.”

Other areas of the event include the Explore It Zone, where there will be a chance for children to plant a bean in a nutrient gel test tube, which they can take home to watch grow, or create an exploding rainbow. Those looking to learn more about the heritage of Lincolnshire should head to the Heritage Zone, where they can have a go at pot throwing or intricate stone carving.

In the Equine Area, there will be several displays taking place throughout the day, including carriage driving demonstrations from the Lincolnshire Wolds Riding for the Disabled and the British Driving Society, which will be an inclusive performance with riders of all abilities.

Jayne added: “We’re committed to educating the next generation when it comes to food, farming and the countryside in Lincolnshire, which is why we’ve significantly increased our range of events this year. Everything has been designed with these values in mind, and this year’s expanded offering adds to the packed-out schedule of educational and entertaining activities suitable for the whole family.”

Countryside Lincs takes place from 10am to 4pm on Sunday 10 April. Advance tickets are priced at £10 for adults and £6 for children, with children under 5 qualifying for free entry. Family tickets, which admit two adults and up to three children are priced at £30 (plus booking fees).

This year’s event guide is sponsored by Taylor Wimpey, while St Marks Lincoln is sponsoring the Countryside Ring and Adventure Trail. Once inside the event, most activities are free to visitors. On-site parking will also be free of charge all day.

Tickets are available via See Tickets here.