Royal Highland Show sees livestock entries rebound

The Royal Highland Show is set for a strong livestock comeback this year, with English and Welsh exhibitors returning after last year’s bluetongue movement restrictions.

Organisers the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (Rhass) expect more than 200,000 visitors at Ingliston, Edinburgh, from 18-21 June, with some sheep and cattle sections already oversubscribed.

See also: Royal Highland Show sparks £551k turnaround for Rhass

David Tennant, head of show for Rhass, said livestock entries had rebounded strongly following last year’s disruption.

“We’re expecting one of the fullest livestock line-ups we’ve seen in recent years,” he told Farmers Weekly.

“The support we continue to receive from exhibitors, breeders and the wider industry has been extremely strong.”

More than 2,000 sheep are expected, with Texel, Beltex and Blackface among the largest sections, while newer breeds such as Dutch Spotted sheep continue to grow in popularity.

Highlands remain the leading cattle breed entered, alongside strong numbers of Beef Shorthorn and Aberdeen Angus.

Dairy entries stand at about 140 head, with judging, showmanship and young handler competitions consolidated into a dedicated Friday dairy programme following exhibitor consultation.

Bluetongue policies

Mr Tennant said the return of exhibitors from England and Wales was an encouraging sign after livestock from affected bluetongue zones were unable to attend in 2025.

The team continues to work closely with the Animal and Plant Health Agency and the official show vet to ensure robust bluetongue policies are in place, including refund arrangements for exhibitors affected by any future restrictions.

Mr Tennant said agricultural shows play an important role in supporting mental wellbeing and reducing isolation within farming communities.

“The Royal Highland Show is still seen by many farmers as their holiday and it might be the only time off in the year they take away from the farm,” he said.

“Events like this are vital. People come together, meet friends they maybe only see once a year, and share both the good times and the difficult times.”

He also called for continued support from Scottish government for smaller local agricultural shows, describing them as “the base of the triangle” underpinning larger events such as the Royal Highland Show.

Tickets remain on sale through the official Royal Highland Show website royalhighlandshow.org.