Balmoral Show 2018: how to get there, parking, weather forecast and more
Milestone year as we celebrate the 150th Balmoral Show 🐮🐷🚜
Last updated 16th May 2018
When does the event start?
Northern Ireland’s largest agri-food event returns to Balmoral Park from May 16th-May 19th and will once again extend to four days, following on from the success of last year.
The milestone anniversary show promises all that is great about Balmoral, with an exciting mix of food, farming and family fun.
The event attracts 30,000 visitors each day, organisers are expecting large crowds so advance planning is advisable.
Show opening times each day
Wednesday 9.30am - 6pm, Thursday 9.30am - 8pm, Friday 9.30am - 7pm and Saturday 9.30am - 6pm.
Getting there via bus, train or taxi: Translink is providing a free and frequent shuttle bus service running between Lisburn Train Station and the showgrounds from 9.00am – 6.20pm (Wed & Sat) / 8.20pm (Thurs) / 7.20pm (Fri).
For Enterprise customers travelling between Dublin and Belfast, there will be extra services stopping at Lisburn on each day of the show.
Coach day tours are available to purchase online and from selected Ulsterbus stations departing Derry~Londonderry, Limavady, Strabane, Omagh, Enniskillen, Dungannon, Antrim, Magherafelt, Ballymena, Ballymoney and Coleraine.
For further travel information including ticket purchase click www.translink.co.uk/balmoralshow2018 or call 028 9066 6630
There are also taxi services available from the main entrance and at the Eikon Exhibition Centre.
Can I park on site?
Yes. There is ample provision for car parking. It will cost £8 per day per car and £12 per day per coach.
How much are tickets?
Adult (18+) £20, Youth (12-18 years) £13, Seniors (65+) £16, Child (5-11 years) £3.
Children under 5 years are free.
All tickets are valid for one day, proof of age may be required.
What’s on offer?
Ireland’s largest agri-food event promises to be bigger and better than ever before with fantastic arena and livestock attractions including fun for all the family. There will also be a Downtown Radio Show Stage showcasing four days of homegrown musical talent.
The Main Arena has many attractions throughout the four days of the show. This year The Bolddog Lings, UK's No1 motorcycle display team, make a welcome return. Based on the latest extreme sports action the show features the UK's top ranked freestyle motorcross riders. Showgoers will enjoy a breath-taking performance with adrenaline and excitement guaranteed.
Other attractions in the Main Arena include the exciting Pony Club Games, thrilling Inter Hunt Chase and the Under 10 Show Jumping Championship.
The Main Arena is also home to International Showjumping classes at the show as well as the stunning parade of cattle which showcases winners and breeds.
Click here to download the full timetable of events happening each day
The new Balmoral Show 2018 app is a must-have app for anyone going to the show.
Plan your visit with an event planner and avoid getting lost in the car park with a ‘Find My Car’ feature and more.
What's the weather going to be like?
Good news, brollies won't be needed.
It is expected to stay mainly dry with plenty of long sunny spells.
The dry and bright weather conditions continue through the weekend with sunny spells at times and temperatures warming up. UV levels will be high, it is advisable to wear sunscreen.
What is the best time to avoid the queues?
The Balmoral Show attracts big crowds. This will inevitably result in delays entering the site at peak times. Using public transport can enhance your journey. Our best advice is to arrive early – gates open at 9.30am - and purchase advance tickets.
Can I leave & re-enter the showground during the day?
Yes, please ask the attendant on the gate to stamp your hand.
What if I need to hire a mobility scooter?
To hire a mobility scooter for the Show contact Fair Price Mobility on 0785017562.
Can I bring my dog?
Balmoral Show operates a strict no dogs policy with the exception of those taking part in displays or assistance dogs. Visitors with dogs will not be able to enter the venue.
