Taking the high road

Charlie Thorburn explains why nothing beats the atmosphere of the Scottish Game Fair

What’s on at the Scottish Game Fair

Game fairs were originally a place that those working in the countryside would go to find clothing and equipment. However, with internet shopping taking over as the go-to for choice and a bargain, fairs have evolved into as much a place for a great day out as an event for retailers to showcase their latest stock to a concentrated target audience.

Retailers talk about “the shopping experience”, which is not something I have ever bought into, but when I think of a game fair I suddenly understand what it means. The thing I love about the Scottish Game Fair is the atmosphere of like-minded people gathering together, all with the aim of enjoying themselves.

To me, the big seller of Scone is the backdrop. Not many events can boast a palace, a salmon river and beautiful parkland. The setting creates an instant feeling of serenity and to combine that with the shopping and entertainment event of the year ticks all the boxes. Having carried out gundog demonstrations both here and as far away as Texas I have experienced my fair share of fairs, and the Scottish fair is different in that it is not so big that you get lost and can’t even find your way in — and then lose the kids, the dog and the car on your way out — but it does have plenty to keep you busy for a day or two.

Gourmet delight

I don’t know about you, but food is a key part of my life. In days gone past a rather grey-looking burger was about all that could be mustered up at most game fairs, possibly with some cold chips that even the Labradors didn’t want. at the Scottish fair the

variety of food on offer is fabulous whether you want a sit-down lunch in the members’ tent watching the main arena, or a snack on the bank of the river while enjoying the fishing displays or gundog tests.

There are so many activities that anyone can have a go at, from shooting and cooking to archery and gundog scurries. No matter how much or little experience you have it is a fantastic opportunity to try something new.

Everyone loves dogs and at Scone this year gundogs will be one of the highlights. With the usual open and novice tests, we are also thrilled to be hosting an international test on Saturday, 1 July. Some of the world’s top dogs and their handlers will be competing for the prize, as well as some of the youngest, with the junior event open to all under-16s over the weekend. A three-yearold has already entered.

Lessons and advice

There is also the John Clark World of Gundogs, which will be offering lessons and advice to novices and those thinking of getting a gundog. The highlight for gundog lovers will be the demonstrations in the main arena. If you think controlling one dog is hard, how about 10? And for anyone who has the slightest inkling of interest in falconry, there is a whole area dedicated to this as well as a fantastic demonstration in the main arena. And you needn’t be worried about whether there is enough to amuse young children and keep them busy; as well as a children’s area there is also the famous Sheep

Show, complete with dancing sheep. No joke — the humorous live show about sheep and wool, where nine breeds are introduced on to their own stage, will entertain your mother and the children while you get on with some serious shopping.

At the heart of the fair will be the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, which will be showcasing the research work it does with the proceeds from the fair. This year’s main focus is on grouse and what can be done to encourage them on the farming fringes of the bigger grouse moors. It is always a fascinating area, with some of the most knowledgeable and enthusiastic people on hand to answer questions about wildlife as well as fun things for the younger generations to get involved in.

Really special

To sum up the Scottish Game Fair, I have to quote one of the stallholders: “I don’t know what it is about Scone, but of all the shows we do year in, year out this is our favourite. There is just something really special about it.” The 29th Annual GWCT Scottish Game Fair takes place from 30 June until 2 July at Scone Palace Parklands, Perth. Tickets can be bought on the gate. Car parking is £4 on the day and free for GWCT members.

“I have been to my fair share of fairs, and the Scottish fair is different”

Not many game fair venues can boast a salmon river

This year, there is a whole area dedicated to falconry

Lucy Riddell at the Fred Taylor Memorial for working hill ponies at the Scottish Game Fair

Lots to see, things to try and plenty of shopping at Scone

Gundogs are very much part of the Scottish Game Fair, with demonstrations in the arena