Wigtown Show Set to Cook up a Storm

Originally from London, Rupert, who is the Executive Chef at Penningham Estate, Newton Stewart, trained in some of the city’s most renowned kitchens before embarking on an extensive career as a private chef, travelling internationally and cooking for major celebrities and private clients.

After moving to the North-West Highlands of Scotland in 2016, he worked in many hospitality businesses, including his own restaurant, that won national awards including Scottish Hotel Restaurant of the Year.

Rupert will be joined in the cooking theatre by Steven Cronnie, a family butcher based in Newton Stewart, known for their many accolades and commitment to Scottish produce.

This new area has been in development for the last twelve months, thanks to support from Quality Meat Scotland and the Wigtown Agricultural Society, and is set to provide a complete farm to fork experience, giving visitors the chance to learn more about different cuts of meat, cooking and flavour. It complements a wider range of activities and entertainment that will take place throughout the day.

Commenting on the entertainment, Wigtown Show Chairman John Galloway said, “The 2026 Wigtown Show will mark our 215th year of the society and at the centre of everything we organise is the connection between farming and food. Whether this is the livestock on show, the main ring entertainment or the amazing array of craft, art and exhibitor stands, agriculture is at the heart of everything.

“This new area allows us to complete the chain, showcasing some of the best of Scottish produce whilst also demonstrating simple tips and tricks for cooking the ingredients at home. Our sincere thanks go to Rupert, Steven and Quality Meat Scotland for all their support.”

The show, which welcomes thousands of visitors each year, takes place at Bladnoch Park, Wigtown and includes a special Family Marquee where children of all ages can explore, connect and have fun with a wide range of entertainment on offer. This year, the show linked up with local primary schools to design a poster, also demonstrating the farm to fork theme. P5 pupil, Lottie, from Kirkinner Primary School was the winner, with her creative poster that demonstrated some of the highlights of the day including dog agility and the animal parade.

John added “It is always so heartening to see such a wide range of ages and families at the show, showing the connection across generations. Many of our visitors have been coming since they were children, providing that real sense of community, something that is important to our voluntary committee.”

This year the event will raise money for the Children’s Cancer Chairty, Calums Cabins, in support of a local family who have benefited from their services, allowing the whole family to stay together during their treatment. All donations received will be put into a draw to win dinner for two, kindly donated by Penningham Estate 1869 Restaurant. Donations can be made on the day or via a link which will be shared on social media.

Gates open at 9am on Wednesday 5th August 2026, at Bladnock Park, Wigtown. Tickets, which are £15 for adults, and children 12 and under free, can be purchased on the the gate with both cash and contactless payments.

To find out more visit www.wigtownshow.org.uk