September is when the country calendar really gets going — the last of the summer festivals overlap with the first harvest fairs, and there’s a fair somewhere within an hour of almost anyone most weekends this month. Here are six worth planning a day around.

1. The Vintage Fair

Rows of restored tractors, working threshing demonstrations, and a good chance of running into someone who remembers driving the exact model on display. Bring wellies — the field gets soft by afternoon no matter the weather.

2. The Harvest Market

Local produce stalls, a baking competition that gets more competitive every year, and usually a small stage with an afternoon of live music. Go early for the best of the stalls — the good stuff sells out by noon.

3. The Ploughing Championship

Part competition, part trade show, part reunion. Whether or not you know your furrows from your fenders, it’s a genuinely good day out — and the food stalls alone are worth the entry.

4. The County Show

Livestock judging, show-jumping, and a marquee full of crafts and produce. A proper all-day event — pace yourself.

5. The Sheep Dog Trials

Genuinely mesmerising if you’ve never watched one properly — the level of communication between handler and dog across a full field is worth the trip on its own.

6. The Harvest Home Festival

Closing out the month with a proper community celebration — food, music, and usually a bonfire once the sun goes down. A good one to bring the whole family to.

Know a fair or festival we should cover? Get in touch — hello@whatsoncountry.com