A Country Girl’s Guide: The Game Fair! Full event guide – things to see and do, what to wear, and how to prepare for the best dressed ladies competition!

A Quintessentially English Experience

There’s no event more eagerly anticipated by country enthusiasts than The Game Fair.
This year, from the 26th to 28th July, the stately Blenheim Palace opens its gates to host this magnificent celebration of rural life, country pursuits, and fine British traditions.

Join me in this blog, as we delve into the history of the event, explore the beauty of Blenheim Palace, and discover the delights awaiting visitors at The Game Fair 2024.

Let’s go!

A Glimpse into the History

The Game Fair is an iconic celebration of British country life, with a history dating back to 1958. Originally, a modest gathering for enthusiasts of field sports, it quickly evolved into a premier event, attracting a diverse audience from across the UK and beyond. The inaugural event was held at Stetchworth Park in Cambridgeshire, setting the tone for the future, with its blend of sporting demonstrations, exhibitions, and exhibitors for country-related goods. Over the decades, the Game Fair has become synonymous with rural heritage, showcasing traditional skills such as falconry, fly fishing, and gundog training. This annual event not only celebrates sporting pursuits but also emphasises conservation, countryside management, and rural crafts. As it now enters its 66th year, the Game Fair continues to honor its roots while embracing contemporary trends, ensuring its place as a beloved event within the British social calendar.

New Location …. The Majestic Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace, the host of this year’s Game Fair, stands as a monumental tribute to British history and architecture. Set in the heart of Oxfordshire, Blenheim Palace is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace, built between 1705 and 1722, was a gift from Queen Anne to John Churchill, the 1st Duke of Marlborough, in recognition of his military triumphs. Its opulent interiors, sprawling gardens, and majestic parkland provide a fitting backdrop for The Game Fair, blending historical grandeur with the vibrant spirit of the event.

The palace is not only a symbol of military victory but also a testament to the power and influence of the Marlborough family, whose descendants, including the famed Sir Winston Churchill, have resided here. The palace grounds, designed by the renowned landscape architect Capability Brown, span over 2,000 acres, and include formal gardens, a serene lake, and one of the world’s largest collections of ancient oak trees, providing a stunning backdrop for The Game Fair. As the venue for this year’s festivities, Blenheim Palace not only enhances the fair with its historical grandeur but also provides a picturesque setting that encapsulates the beauty and tradition of the British countryside.

What to See at The Game Fair 2024…

Sporting Excellence: The heart of The Game Fair lies in its celebration of country sports. Visitors can witness thrilling demonstrations of falconry, gundog handling, and clay pigeon shooting. For those eager to participate, there are opportunities to try their hand at archery, fishing, and shooting under expert guidance.

Entertainment: Experience the thrill of off-road driving, enjoy the horse and hound display, watch demonstrations within the Main Arena… there are endless things to see and do.

Food and Drink: No English country event is complete without a feast of culinary delights. The Game Fair’s food village boasts a selection of artisanal food producers, gourmet food stalls, and country kitchen demonstrations. Visitors can savour everything from traditional game dishes to contemporary British fare, accompanied by fine wines and local ales.

Shopping: With 100’s stands, The Game Fair is a shopper’s paradise. From luxury clothing brands and handcrafted accessories to bespoke furniture and fine art, there’s something to suit every taste.

Family Fun: The Game Fair is a family-friendly event, with a host of activities to entertain younger visitors. From funfair rides and interactive wildlife displays to educational workshops, children are sure to be entertained.

Expert Talks and Debates: The Game Fair’s Theatre hosts a series of talks and debates on pressing issues facing the countryside today. Featuring experts from various fields, these discussions provide valuable insights into topics such as conservation, rural policy, and sustainable living.

Crafting the Perfect Country Look

The Game Fair 2024 at Blenheim Palace is not just a celebration of country life and pursuits, but also a great occasion to showcase country fashion. With esteemed brands like Holland Cooper, Welligogs, Clare Haggas, Salthouse England, and Fairfax & Favor all attending the event, there is no greater time to create a stylish and functional outfit for the event.

Struggling with what to wear or how to put an outfit together? Let me give you some ideas, PLUS, let me show you how to make a statement during the Welligogs Best Dressed Ladies competition.

The Welligogs Best Dressed Ladies Competition

The Welligogs Best Dressed Ladies competition is a highlight of The Game Fair, celebrating the most stylish and elegantly dressed women. To create a showstopping outfit, focus on a cohesive look that balances tradition with modern elements.

Opt for a standout piece, such as a tailored coat or a striking hat, and build your outfit around it. Ensure you pay attention to detail, the judges will be looking for something that sets you apart, whilst embracing beautiful country style. Look to coordinate colours within your outfit, if you are wearing a scarf, tie in its colours throughout your look. Remember the rule of 3, no more than 3 colours, or look to tie in 3 items in the same colour. Think about practicality, mixed with style. Remember confidence is the best thing you can wear, so choose something authentically you, and let your personality shine through your outfit.

Anyone can enter the competition, scouts will be keeping an eye out on the day inviting ladies to join them on the Welligogs stand at 2pm on the Friday, ready for the judging.

Three Country-Styled Outfits

Outfit 1: ‘Dress’ to impress!

Start with the new Schoffel Country Daisy Linen Dress in Oat. This will give you a beautiful silhouette, and a great starting point for accessorising your outfit. Add some flair and colour with a Clare Haggas silk scarf elegantly draped around your neck. Now accessorize with some Fairfax & Favor suede loafers, offering both style and practicality. Use a waist belt to cinch in the dress, but use this to tie in a colour from the scarf for an effortless, put together outfit. Complete the look with a Fairfax & Favor leather crossbody bag, perfect for carrying essentials while keeping your hands free.

Outfit 2: The Need for Tweed!

For a more country-inspired look, choose a classic tweed skirt, with an elegant white shirt. With a white shirt, I like to look for something with a bit more of a statement, either bows, ruffles or lace add a little more to the look. This can then be styled with classic brown accessories for a rustic but well polished look. I like opting for a wool fedora, and leather belt, bag and books for a streamlined, durable look. Finishing this look with some statement sunglasses can add some glamour to a country-inspired theme.

Outfit 3: Contemporary Countryside

For a modern take on country fashion, combine a quilted gilet with white jeans, and neutrals. Add in a vibrant silk scarf for a contemporary yet traditional vibe. We never quite know what the weather will do in England, so be prepared with an outfit that you can team with a pair of wellies should you need to!

Accessorising to Perfection

Hats: Hats are a quintessential part of country styling. Whether you choose a classic fedora and feather pin from Mackenzie & George or a stylish baker boy cap from Hicks & Brown, ensure it complements your outfit and adds a touch of elegance. Hats are great for keeping both sun and rain off your face, making them an essential piece for event styling.

Bags: A functional yet stylish bag is essential. Opting for a crossbody bag allows for hands-free convenience, perfect when walking around and shopping. A structured tote adds a more polished look, and allows you to carry additional items around with you, perfect if you want to stash away items like an umbrella! For bags, I love Grays 1922, Katie Loxton, Salthouse England and Fairfax & Favor.

Sunglasses: Sunglasses not only protect your eyes but also add a layer of sophistication. Choose classic aviators or oversized frames to complete your ensemble.

Scarves: Scarves are versatile accessories that can add color and texture to your outfit. Clare Haggas offers beautifully designed silk scarves that can be worn around the neck, tied to a bag, or even used as a headband. I love to incorporate the colours in my scarf into the rest of my outfit, to create a really seamless look.

The Importance of Footwear at Country Shows

Footwear at country shows must strike a balance between style and practicality. The terrain can be unpredictable, from grassy fields to gravel paths, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must. Fairfax & Favor offer a range of boots and shoes that provide the perfect combination of elegance and durability. Opt for knee-high styles for a traditional look or ankle boots for a modern twist. I am also partial to a pair of loafers or deck shoes at an event, they again offer comfort with a well polished twist.

Should the weather require it, don’t be afraid to get your wellies out, you won’t be alone!

When it comes to footwear, I am definitely NOT a girlie that believes in style over comfort. There is nothing worse than shredded feet, hobbling around at an event because you’ve worn something that rubs – it ends up being all you can think about. You will be on your feet all day, so choose wisely and ensure you pick something comfortable! I would also recommend taking plasters …. just in case you get caught out!!

The Game Fair is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of a way of life. Whether you’re a seasoned country sports enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this event offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the best of British rural culture.

See you there!

Lots of love, Lucinda xo