Uppingham Fatstock Show is a rare survivor – believed to be the only event of its kind in the UK still held in temporary pens in a traditional market town square. Against the backdrop of Uppingham’s historic buildings, farmers and breeders gather to exhibit some of the finest livestock from the surrounding countryside, with judging taking place in mid- to late morning.

The show has deep roots in the local farming community. Following a 10-year hiatus during World War II and the years of rationing that followed, it was revived by a committee of local farmers in 1949. That December, 17 cattle, 13 pens of sheep and 11 pigs were brought into town – and the tradition has continued ever since.

Today it remains a wonderful link between Uppingham and the countryside that surrounds it: part agricultural show, part social occasion and a fascinating glimpse of farming heritage that is increasingly rare to see in quite such an authentic setting. There’s something wonderfully incongruous about seeing prize cattle and sheep – plus tractors – occupying the Market Place, just steps from Uppingham’s shops and cafés.

Wrap up warm and make a morning of it: wander around the show, then warm up over coffee at Scandimania or The Falcon, with plenty of Uppingham’s independent shops to browse while you’re in town.

Uppingham Market Place
Morning of Wednesday 25 November 2026