Popular Country Fair returns to The Argory

The event which welcomed almost 2000 visitors in 2013 returns once again to the beautiful National Trust property near Moy, where the Victorian estate will come to life with the sights, sounds and smells of the country.

For those who would like to have their very own free range eggs then Saturday’s poultry fair is the event to attend. Go along to buy or sell your poultry. Admission free for sellers.

The highlight of Sunday’s programme will be the return of the dog show with a difference, Scrufts. The Argory is thrilled to welcome their special guest Keith Mathews ‘The Dog Guru’ for the fourth year running. Keith will compere the event and will be on hand to offer training advice to visitors and their dogs. There will be prizes for all shapes, breeds and sizes and categories include best large dog, best small dog and best child handler. Prizes will also be presented to the best dressed dog, most obedient dog and best dog and owner look-a-likes! Once again, John McCullough from Happy Dogs Boarding Kennels, Portadown will be judging the events. The Argory would like to thank Brandy Dog Foods, Parklands Vets and Pawfect Doggie Treats for their continued support with the event.

Another highlight of Sunday’s programme will be the fascinating display of animals from The Sperrins and Lakeland’s Rare Breeds Survival Trust. Belted Galloway cattle and rare breeds of sheep and pigs will create some unusual sounds and smells across the estate.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can choose from a fantastic selection of craft, gift and produce stalls selling everything from knitted goods and country crafts to scented candles, jams, cupcakes, plants, leather and wooden items and more. This years’ newest addition to the line-up is Lakeland Huts - designed and made in the Fermanagh Lakelands, these unique and bespoke Shepherd Huts have taken the country by storm.

Country demonstrations such as horse-threshing and traditional bread-making will complete the displays over the weekend and provide fantastic entertainment for all the family. A new addition to this years’ demonstrations will be the fantastic display from the Mid Ulster Bee Keepers Association. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the bees in action and purchase local honey products. Based at Loughry College, the MUBKA aim to increase awareness of the feral honeybee and its importance not just for the production of honey but also for pollination.

The Armagh Rhymers will provide a unique musical experience throughout the weekend. One of Europe’s most celebrated folk theatre ensembles, the Rhymers are a respected professional group of entertainers that have delighted audiences for over 30 years with a unique blend of Mumming, poetry, music, drama, song and dance.

And the entertainment doesn’t stop there. Children can have a go on some traditional fairground rides,enjoy face painting and join the trail around The Argory to help the lonely farmer find a wife! Enjoy a guided walking tour of The Argory grounds (Sunday only) or take a tour of the unique Irish gentry home.

Enjoy homemade cakes, scones, paninis and teas in the Courtyard Coffee Shop, grab a delicious pulled pork and bbq bap from our catering point or treat yourself to something nice in the gift shop, packed with an extensive range of products.

With endless activities and entertainment, The Argory’s Country Fair promises to be a fantastic weekend. The Argory Country Fair will take place on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 May from 11am-5pm. Normal admission, National Trust members free.

For further information call 028 8778 4753, find us on facebook.com/NationalTrustMidUlster or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/argory