Manky Monkey Motors

A famous Dorset show’s landmark anniversary is set to host the largest gathering of steam rollers ever recorded as well as the biggest crowd in its history.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Great Dorset Steam Fair, widely recognised as the biggest heritage and cultural show in the world.
Organisers are pulling out all the stops to make this year’s event the biggest and best.
The highlight is set to be the gathering of 500 engines.
This will be the largest gathering of steam engines ever recorded and along with the 100th anniversary of the end of the Great War and a special commemorative feature to co-celebrate that event we anticipate visitor numbers in excess of 250,000.”

The show usually attracts crowds of around 200,000.
This year’s show will be held at the Tarrant Hinton showground from Thursday, August 23 to Monday, August 27.

Showcasing Britain’s national industrial, agricultural and leisure history, the event event offers a “unique blend of nostalgia and entertainment”.

The showground covers more than 600 acres – one of Europe’s largest outdoor event locations.

Attractions include showmen’s engines, vintage and classic cars, lorries, tractors, bikes, military vehicles, steam-driven funfairs, heavy horses, country crafts, hundreds of trade stands, food halls, bars and live music.

The 1914-18 trenches which opened for the 2014 show to mark the centenary of the First World War can also be seen.

Having visited the GDSF for the last 50 years i'm hanging my coat up through ill health. I've seen it in the sunshine, i've seen it in the mud and rain, and feel that the last few years i have struggled to see all the exhibits.



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That's a shame Rick, but 50 years is impressive!
Nice photos as always :)

When I first moved to Dorset nearly 50 years ago, all our friend wanted to come and stay, and they all wanted to visit the Tank Museum, Lulworth Cove, and (depending on date) the Great Dorset Steam Fair. 

Then later when we used to have foreign students to stay, they all wanted to go to, yep you've guessed.

I now only go to Lulworth Cove occasionally in winter, NEVER go to the Tank Museum, and haven't been to the Steam Fair for many years.

You can have too much of a good thing!

Sorry to hear this Rick. but this is a very big show and as you say your health is more important than any thing. I still hope you and JJ will be going to the smaller show or events.

Take care Mate and hope to see you soon.