BBC Countryfile Live 2019: 10 Fun Things to Do at This Year’s Show

by | Jul 17, 2019

BBC Countryfile Live 2019 (1-4 August), Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire

BBC Countryfile Live is now in its fourth year. Each year it attracts thousands of visitors to the grounds of one of Britain’s most magnificent stately homes, Blenheim Palace.

Presenters BBC Countryfile Live 2018
BBC Countryfile Live Presenters

It’s one of the best Blenheim Palace events taking place this summer and I can promise you it’s a fabulous day out for all the family.

This year, Countryfile Live 2019 will kick off on Thursday 1 August and finish on Sunday 4 August.

Why not venture out into the Oxfordshire countryside and join the Countryfile presenters for a day out at this fantastic country show?

If you’re spending a few days exploring this picturesque part of the country, add it to your wish list of things to do in the Cotswolds.

For the first time, there’s also another chance to experience the show. Countyfile Live 2019 will make its debut in the grounds of Castle Howard in Yorkshire from 15-18 August.

The Foodie Travel Guide

BBC Countryfile Live 2019

  • Fantastic family day out
  • Meet the BBC Countryfile presenters
  • Outdoor activities
  • Unbeatable shopping
  • Meet the animals
  • Delicious food and drink

Sally Loves

Advance Booking Recommended

What’s Happening at BBC Countryfile Live 2019?

 

One of the best things about the 2019 BBC Countryfile Live Show is the amazing choice of activities on offer.

Nature lovers can walk along the stunning River Glyme to see the rich and vibrant wildlife at Blenheim Palace. Petrol heads can try a Mercedes-Benz off-road driving experience with World Driving Instructors. Down at the lake, families can have a go at fishing, paddleboarding, canoeing and kayaking

Animals lovers can watch the horses and dogs in action and for young children, there are activities in the National Trust’s natural playground. For food lovers, there’s a smorgasbord of activities to taste at the show.

To help you make the most of your day (or weekend), here are some of the best things to do.


Watch Live Cooking Demonstrations in the Countryfile Kitchen

Taking the helm in the Countryfile Kitchen this year is much-loved celebrity chef, Brian Turner. He’ll be showing the crowd how to cook a selection of mouth-watering recipes and will be joined by some of his cheffy friends.

Cooking demonstrations at Countryfile Live 2017

Celebrate The Sausage at The British Charcuterie Awards 

Returning to this year’s BBC Countryfile Live is the second annual British Charcuterie Awards.

These important new awards will take place on Thursday 1 August in the British Charcuterie tent. Watch the panel of celebrity judges in action among the dried sausages and cured meats.

Throughout the show there will be a tasting trail and a series of talks and demonstrations given by various Charcuterie experts and producers including Rich Summers, “Butcher Farrell” and Steve Lamb.

 

Pick Up Baking Tips From Martha Collinson

On Sunday 4th August, the Great British Bake Off contestant and self-taught baker, Martha Collinson will be sharing her favourite crowd pleasers for afternoon tea, cakes and bakes.

Other big names giving demos in the National Trust Farm Yard Cookery Theatre throughout the show include Gill Meller, Melissa Hemsley and Marcus Bean.

Meet the Animals on Adam’s Farm

BBC Countryfile viewers know well that presenter, Adam Henson, has his own Farm Park in the Cotswolds. For BBC Countryfile Live 2019, his farm animals will once again make the trip to Blenheim Palace.

You can take part in a mock sheep auction, meet the pigs and learn about rare breed and heritage cattle.

Tuck into Delicious Street Food

If you don’t want to bring your own picnic food with you, there’s a great choice of street food vendors at this year’s show.

Go on a culinary journey around the world and taste real Italian pizza, gourmet burgers, exotic curries – as well as home favourites including fish and chips, Scotch eggs and traditional full English breakfast.

Fish and Chips Stand BBC Countryfile Live

Picnic on the Village Green

For the perfect lunch spot, head to the Village Green. Spread your picnic blanket out and enjoy live music from the brass band.

Watch traditional country entertainment including Morris dancing, Scottish dancing and maypole dancing. After lunch, have a game of croquet with the kids on the croquet lawn.

Browse the Artisan Stalls in the Countryfile Kitchen Marquee

Shop for some of the best British artisan food products in The Countryfile Kitchen Marquee. From cheese and cider, to English wine and handmade chocolates, the food and drink you’ll discover at the show is some of Britain’s finest.

Buy an authentic Bakewell pudding from The Bakewell Pudding Shop, taste chocolate made in Britain at Hotel Chocolat or speak to Riverford Organics about ordering one of their veg boxes.

Sip a Pint in the Village Pub

If you’ve worked up a thirst and need to rest your weary feet, stop for a relaxing pint in the Village Pub. Enjoy a pint of real ale, cider or a refreshing juice at The Craven Arms.

The pub is sponsored by Brakspear. The company has been brewing beer in Oxfordshire since 1776. Brakspear remain one of the very few breweries to make beer using the ‘double drop’ brewing system giving Brakspear its unique character.

Ferris wheel and what's on board BBC Countryfile Live

Tuck into a Gourmet BBQ at the Riverside Club

For the ultimate experience at BBC Countryfile Live, buy membership of the Riverside Club. Tickets give you exclusive access to the club and special perks including complimentary drinks and snacks. Pay extra and enjoy a gourmet BBQ.

Have Lunch at The Graze Inn

New to this year’s Countryfile Live show is The Graze Inn. Sponsored by Thatcher’s cider, it’s where you can eat a delicious lunch featuring eight artisanal food producers and relax with a drink.

Foodie Travel Guide Tip: Order a glass of Thatcher’s summery rosé cider. It’s delicious.

  • Countryfile Live is spread over a large area so make sure you wear comfy shoes as you’ll be doing lots of walking
  • Take a picnic blanket with you
  • Reusable water bottles can be filled up at the Taptastic Not Plastic bar located on the Village Green
  • The show opens at 9.30 and closes at 18.30 (17.30 on Sunday)
  • If you do decide to go inside, treat yourself to a Champagne Afternoon Tea in the Orangery at Blenheim Palace
 

Dog Policy

Mr Hendricks says, “BBC Countryfile Live is probably one of the most dog-friendly shows I have ever been to! The Countryfile team tell me you can take a maximum of two dogs with you and you are kindly asked to keep me on a lead”.

Countryfile Live Camping – The Camping and Caravanning Club will operate the on-site campsite for the duration of BBC Countryfile Live 2019


Where is Blenheim Palace?

Blenheim Palace sits at the edge of the picturesque town of Woodstock in Oxfordshire and is a 20-minute journey from the city of Oxford.

BBC Countryfile Live 2018

BBC Countryfile Live 2018

Blenheim Palace 

Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1PP. If you are using a satnav, please use the postcode OX20 1PS.

The Foodie Travel Guide

The Foodie Travel Guide

Sally is the founder and editor of The Foodie Travel Guide. She travels around the UK and beyond in search of the best foodie days out, tasting experiences and delicious places to stay. She loves a glass of English sparkling wine, afternoon tea with friends and escaping London for gastronomic adventures. 

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Guide to Countryfile Live 2019 at Blenheim Palace Oxfordshire

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