Events & Entertainment | Posted on June 2nd, 2026 | return to news

Horseboarding gallops into Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show

The annual rural show’s list of entertainment will feature the extreme sport of horseboarding in the main ring this August.

A popular annual rural show near Gillingham and Shaftesbury has announced its headline entertainment act will feature the extreme sport of horseboarding.

The Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show will take place on Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 August at Motcombe Showground. The show features a variety of family-friendly activities, market stalls and agricultural displays.

The Dorset Life Main Ring will feature a variety of entertainment, and this summer horseboarding will make its first appearance at the show.

Horseboarding combines traditional horsemanship with high-octane action. Three athletes – a horse, rider and mountainboarder – work together as a team, reaching speeds of up to 33mph as they race a timed obstacle course.

Developed in England in 2004 and now raced internationally, horseboarding sees the horse and rider tow a mountainboarder before using a quick-release line attached to the saddle. The team weaves through a series of gates, with winning runs often decided by fractions of a second. Precision, trust and teamwork are key to success, where one mistimed move can end a run.

Show organiser Cat Harris said: “We’re delighted to bring horseboarding to the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show for the first time. It’s a spectacular sport that complements our traditional events of celebrating farm, food and country life perfectly.”

Other highlights at the show include Shetland pony racing on Thursday, terrier and ferret racing, plus the chance for families to enter their own four-legged friends in the dog show. Equine enthusiasts can also enjoy Dorset Polo Club demonstrations.

Visitors can explore the Heavy Horse Village, shop from artisan creators to tractor dealerships, enjoy live music, indulge in local food and drink from across the three counties, admire vintage tractors and vehicles, and browse the Horticultural Tent, packed with home-grown fruit, vegetables and flowers.

Children can get involved in hands-on activities ranging from butter making to learning how food is produced.

Harris added: “With over 30 free activities, alongside our exciting new main ring attractions, there really is something for everyone at Dorset’s ultimate rural day out.”

Advance tickets to the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show are on sale until 13 August and are priced at just £20 for adults, £3 for children and free entry for those aged under five. A family ticket for two adults and two children is available for £44.

Two-day tickets are also available, and late-access tickets will be on sale for the Wednesday afternoon. Visit the website for more information and to book tickets: https://gillinghamandshaftesburyshow.co.uk.