Festival of Heavy Horses at Devon County Show
Martin Clunes opens the show! Whistlefish is celebrating the Festival of Heavy Horses at Devon County Show 2025
We’re packing up our Clydesdales, our best blooms, and a bundle of countryside charm - because Whistlefish is heading to the Devon County Show! We’re incredibly proud to be sponsoring this year’s Festival of Heavy Horses, taking place on 15th, 16th and 17th May 2025.
If you’ve ever stood next to a heavy horse, you’ll know just how breathtaking they are. These beautiful creatures were once the muscle behind Britain’s agriculture and manual industries. Today, their numbers are dwindling, and their traditional roles risk being lost. The Festival of Heavy Horses is a moving tribute to their legacy and a call to protect their place in our future - a place where visitors can learn about these gentle giants and why their story must live on.
Opening the show... Martin Clunes!
Yes, you read that right! The one and only Martin Clunes - actor, star of Doc Martin, and proud Clydesdale owner - is opening the Festival at 10am on Thursday 15th May. He’s a passionate countryside advocate. Martin will be cutting the ribbon to unveil our beautiful festival area, decorated by the brilliant Sophies Flowers.
He’s as passionate about protecting rare breeds as we are, and we can’t wait to welcome him to the showground.
Find us in the Countryside Area
Come and say hello at our beautifully dressed Whistlefish stand within the Festival of Heavy Horses - we’ll be in the Countryside Area, with plenty to see and do:
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Get up close to the magnificent heavy horses and even snap a pic with one!
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Visit our Whistlefish stand, where we’ll be bringing the magic of our shops to you - plus enjoy an exclusive heavy horse offers in support of the Clydesdale Horse Society
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Measure yourself against a heavy horse.
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Enter our photo competition - the best 3 photos from the festival will win BIG
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Take part in our prize draw to WIN a holiday to Cornwall
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Admire a stunning floral display by Sophie Flowers, created just for the show
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We’re giving away Heavy Horse goodies around the festival - keep your eyes peeled!
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Preserving a rare part of our past
Heavy horses once played a vital role in farming, transport and forestry across Britain. Today, these beautiful gentle giants are listed as at risk, with the art of driven showing among the most endangered disciplines.
The Festival is a celebration of all they’ve given—and a call to protect what remains. From working in conservation to serving as calm, steady riding companions, these horses continue to prove their worth in today’s world.
A festival full of heart
Now in its third year, the Festival of Heavy Horses has become a firm favourite at the Devon County Show - and it’s easy to see why. This year, 19 horses will take part, representing some of the rarest and most treasured breeds:
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Shires - Strong, calm, and iconic
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Clydesdales - Elegant and proud (we’re lucky enough to call a few our own)
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Suffolk Punches - One of Britain’s oldest and most endangered breeds
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Percherons - Intelligent and striking
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North American Belgians - Towering giants with hearts to match
Over the weekend, they’ll take part in cart-pulling displays and showground competitions, all while dressed in full ceremonial tack. It’s a breathtaking sight and a tribute to the rich heritage of the working countryside.
📅 You can find the full timetable of show ring events here: Devon County Show What’s On
Step inside the heavy horse village
Wander through the Heavy Horse Village, where these gentle giants are groomed, braided, and harnessed in traditional tack - plaited manes, polished brass, and gleaming leatherwork.
Our wonderful community of heavy horse owners and drivers will be there to answer your questions, share stories, and showcase the hard work that goes into keeping these breeds alive. And none of it would be possible without the incredible Diana McFeat, whose dedication and passion bring this festival to life every year.
A royal connection
We’re also honoured that HRH The Princess Royal - a breeder and long-time supporter of Suffolk Punch horses - will be attending the show as President of the Devon County Show 2025. Her visit is a fitting tribute to the importance of preserving Britain’s native breeds.
And if you're a fan of Clarkson’s Farm, don’t miss a chance to spot Kaleb Cooper, who’ll be joining in the countryside celebrations too.
Come along and say hello
Whether you’re there for the horses, the garden displays, the crafts, or just a cream tea in the sunshine, we’d love for you to join us. The Devon County Show is always a joy - but this year, it’s set to be truly special.
