Tuesday July 21st 2026
Border Union Show, 2025
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
Final preparations are being made for one of Scotland’s premier agricultural events being staged in the Borders this weekend.
The Border Union Show returns to Springwood Park in Kelso on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 July, promising two action-packed days celebrating farming, food, rural life and the very best of the region.
The show attracts more than 12,000 visitors across the two days and remains one of the highlights of the rural calendar for both the Borders and Northumberland.
Organised by the Border Union Agricultural Society, this year’s show offers something for every age and interest.
Visitors can enjoy over 500 competitions featuring horses, livestock and industrial arts, browse more than 200 trade stands, sample local produce in the popular Food Hall, discover unique gifts in the Craft & Gift Marquee and enjoy live cookery demonstrations celebrating quality Scottish produce.
Kicking off the first day of the show, the popular Business Breakfast returns on Friday morning in partnership with the Royal Society of Arts (RSA), bringing together leaders from across agriculture, business, research and the rural economy.
This year’s theme, “Perspectives on Agriculture”, will feature a panel of expert speakers exploring the opportunities and challenges facing the sector, followed by an interactive discussion and audience Q&A.
Building on the success of previous years, the event provides a valuable opportunity for networking, knowledge sharing and informed debate, attracting farmers, landowners, professionals and rural businesses from across the Borders and beyond.
Advance registration is required due to limited capacity.
New for 2026 is the Rural Careers Hub, reflecting the Society’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of people considering a career in the rural economy.
Visitors can explore the wide range of opportunities available across agriculture and the wider land-based sector, speak to employers, colleges and industry organisations, and discover the many different pathways into rural careers.
Throughout both days, a programme of Spotlight Talks will feature professionals sharing their experiences and insights into careers in agriculture, education, engineering, environmental management and other rural industries.
Alongside this, the brand-new Farming Hub will provide an engaging and interactive space where visitors can learn more about modern farming. From sheep breeding and livestock management to genetics, animal health and sustainable farming practices, the Hub aims to give people of all ages a greater understanding of where their food comes from and the skills involved in modern agriculture.
Families will find plenty to enjoy throughout the show, with a packed programme of attractions, children’s entertainment, shopping, food and live demonstrations.
Saturday’s Main Ring spectacle will feature Joseph’s Amazing Camels, delivering an exciting display inspired by traditional Middle Eastern camel racing, while visitors will also have the opportunity to meet the camels throughout the day.
Children can enjoy the funfair, meet farm animals and, on Friday afternoon, take part in the ever-popular Children’s Dog Show, which is free to enter. Dogs are welcome throughout the event provided they are kept on leads.
The Border Union Show continues to play an important role in supporting agriculture and the rural economy, bringing together farmers, businesses, producers and the wider community in a celebration of innovation, tradition and excellence.
Whether you’re interested in livestock, horses, food and drink, shopping, rural careers or simply looking for a fantastic family day out, the Border Union Show offers an unforgettable experience.
Society secretary Jac Neill said: “The Border Union Show is much more than an agricultural show – it’s a celebration of our rural communities, the people who produce our food and the businesses that support them.
“Alongside our traditional competitions and attractions, we’re particularly excited to introduce our new Rural Careers Hub and Farming Hub, helping visitors discover the many opportunities within the rural sector while learning more about modern farming.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone to Springwood Park for what promises to be another fantastic show.”
Show chairman James Playfair-Hannay said: “The Border Union Show has always been about bringing people together to celebrate the very best of agriculture and rural life.
“While our livestock competitions remain at the heart of the show, it is equally important that we continue to look to the future of our industry.
“This year we’re delighted to introduce the Rural Careers Hub and Farming Hub, giving visitors the opportunity to discover the incredible range of careers available within the rural sector and to learn more about the innovation, knowledge and dedication that underpin modern farming.
“Whether you’re a farming family, a local resident or visiting the Borders for the first time, the Border Union Show offers something for everyone. It’s a chance to meet the people behind our food, enjoy first-class competition and entertainment, and experience the warmth and hospitality that make this event so special.
“On behalf of the Border Union Agricultural Society, I would like to thank our exhibitors, competitors, sponsors, volunteers and supporters, whose continued commitment makes the show possible.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors to Springwood Park for what promises to be an outstanding two days.”
Advance tickets are available online, with under-16s admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Gates open from 8am each day.
For further information and tickets, visit Border Union Agricultural Society.
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