BBC Countryfile Live

About this excursion

£78 per person Set in the grounds of Blenheim Palace this exciting new event will combine the tradition of the UK’s best county fairs with the quality editorial and presentation of one of the BBC’s flagship programmes. You can explore every aspect of the British countryside through exciting live arena shows, talks, hands-on activities, animal displays, farming in action and shopping with more than 600 food and craft producers and even a great British pub garden.

Countryfile Live Arena The centre-piece of BBC Countryfile Live is a spectacular show in the main arena. Throughout the day each arena show will be a dramatic and theatrical celebration of the very best that rural Britain has to offer. You’ll learn the fascinating story of how farming has transformed our landscape and brought food to our tables for generations. With the stunning backdrop of historic Blenheim Palace you’ll be taken on a journey through time and the seasons.

Central Ring In this area you will be able to watch a number of different shows, with lots of animals in action. Watch the Dog and Duck Show as they put sheepdogs through their paces; enjoy amazing falconry demonstrations; be amused by the antics of the ferrets and polecats and experience up close the majestic Shire horse.

Adam’s Farm Countryfile’s Adam Henson runs Britain’s most famous farm, as seen by millions on BBC’s Countryfile. Now he’s bringing his farm to Blenheim so you can meet some of the rare breeds, farm livestock and animal celebrities you have watched on screen. See a cow and her calf, sheep and piglets close-up and learn how farmers care for their livestock.

Farming in Action We showcase the latest farming machinery – see first hand the latest computer technology which helps the farmer, from tiny micro-chips to titan tractors and see just how far agriculture has come in the last 100 years with our unique display of vintage farm machinery.

Village Green At the heart of many British villages is the traditional Green complete with a bandstand and a maypole. It’s the perfect setting for live, family entertainment such as, Tug-of-War, Morris dancing, Punch-and-Judy, cricket, a vintage Funfair and the ever-popular village fete. This is also the place to see an array of rural crafts in action: you’ll be impressed by expert thatching, hedgelaying, drystone walling, and woodworking whilst seeing at first hand the fascinating skill of the wheelwright, a hurdlemaker, a glassblower and chainsaw sculptors transforming tree trunks in to works of art.

National Trust Theatre The British coast and countryside are loved and admired around the world. But behind the stunning scenery and breath-taking views there are important questions and controversial issues affecting the future of rural Britain: the future of farming, threats to village life, changing weather patterns and the environment; it’s all on the agenda at the National Trust Theatre. Bringing some famous faces and well-known figures on stage for a lively debate and head-to-head interviews on the hot topics, you’ll also be invited to ask your own question and share your opinions too.

Equine Village For four days Blenheim Palace becomes home to some of the most majestic and athletic animals. In the display arena, horses big and small will be on show. Cheer the ponies on as they negotiate a high speed obstacle course in the Mounted Games Home International competition and the fast and furious British Scurry Trials. Slow and steady is the order of the day with the mighty, muscle power of the Shire Horse You can also discover the exciting sport of Polo with taster sessions, demonstrations, a children’s match and a wooden horse run!

The Great British Summer Beer Garden In the long, warm days of August, nothing could be more welcome or refreshing than great summer food and a tasty glass of English cider. Enjoy a drink, sit back and listen to some of the finest live performers in the country with acoustic music sets, poetry readings, comedy and traditional dance in our authentic Beer Garden.

Water / Riverside Millions of us enjoy sport and leisure on the beautiful rivers, lakes and canals of Britain. BBC Countryfile Live will introduce you to the wonderful, world of angling, canoeing, pond dipping and so much more. Join experts and enthusiasts for free taster sessions at Blenheim’s Great Lake, designed by the world-renowned Capability Brown. Whether it’s the challenge of canoeing for the first time or a peaceful moment with rod and line, you could become hooked!

Wildlife Zone Our countryside abounds with birds, bees and beasts of all shapes and sizes. Even in our biggest cities, you are never far away from nature. The Wildlife Zone will be buzzing with hints, tips and hands-on help for anyone who wants to watch or care for the world around us. See working beehives, watch traditional skep-making, build a bug hotel or make a nest-box to take home. Blenheim is the perfect place to learn about the wildlife of Britain as it is home to so many creatures; heron, geese, woodpecker, rabbit, hare, muntjak deer and more. What will you spot?

Rambling / Walking Oxfordshire is a favourite place for a country walk or a serious ramble – so why not seize the day and stride out with BBC Countryfile Live? Walk in groups or with a guide through the stunning Blenheim parkland which includes shimmering lakes, historic monuments and ancient woodland. Lord Randolph Churchill called it “the finest view in England”. Take a peek in to the past as you walk in the footsteps of this country’s greatest landscape artist.

4 X 4 Course It’s action all the way when we take you on our 4×4 course. Can you keep your nerve as you rise to the challenge of navigating through our specially designed course? Loved and admired the world-over, 4x4s are the modern day workhorse, as they tackle desert, forest, mud, ice, snow and flood. From the arctic to the Andes, there’s no place these machines won’t go.

Art & Photography A breath-taking view captured by camera or on canvas can last a lifetime. We want you to create your own memories and learn the tricks of the trade from skilled photographers and artists. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to photography or a novice with a paint brush; you’re sure to learn something new. Inspiration will come at the top of the BBC Countryfile Live Camera Tower. Make the climb to the viewing platform and be rewarded with a panoramic view of Blenheim Palace, the inspiring parkland and the entire show laid out beneath you. How’s that for your latest and greatest picture?

The cost of this day will include luxury coach transport, entrance to the event, a timed entry ticket to a show in the Countryfile Live Arena and, of course, treats.

• Your ticket for the BBC event will allow you to purchase entry to Blenheim Palace and Gardens at a 50% discount. However, if you join us for the Blenheim Palace Flower Show on 19th June you can swap your ticket for an annual pass to the Palace and Gardens.

We are awaiting details of the catering arrangements for this show and, if possible, we shall try to arrange an optional lunch for you.

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