Following on from the success of 2013, Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate is urging visitors to save the date for this year’s Galloway Country Fair as it shapes up to be more action-packed than ever before.

The popular weekend, which is fast becoming one of Scotland’s premier country events, will be held at Drumlanrig Castle on the weekend of 16 and 17 August to showcase the best country sports, produce and retail that Scotland has to offer.

The largest and most renowned country fair in southern Scotland brings together thousands of visitors with hundreds of businesses, demonstrations and activities each year offering a true celebration of rural life.

The Food Marquee will be full to the brim with food and drink to cater for every taste, including fresh produce from local suppliers.

Visitors can enjoy gifts or homeware in the huge Craft Marquee and purchase a variety of goods, from premium clothing and sporting supplies to jewellery, pet products, artwork, toys, gifts and much more.

As well as regular attractions such as traditional Highland games, and the chance to see the Buccleuch hounds and gundog demonstrations in the main arena, this year will also see a new focus on mountain biking.

The popular Fishing Village will make a return, allowing youngsters to learn about the sport through demonstrations and casting clinics.

Once again, visitors can try their hand at clay pigeon shooting, and a wide range of firearms, rifles, shooting accessories and fishing tackle from leading suppliers will be available in Gunmakers Row.

Event Manager, Jo Jones, said: “It’s that time of year again when the buzz of the Galloway Country Fair starts to spread at Drumlanrig. It’s a super-sized event and all of the team have a hand in preparations for many months ahead.

“The weekend is always very family friendly with a funfair and plenty of entertainment to keep everyone amused. The variety of stalls and shows is fantastic – we will have something for thrill-seekers, shopaholics, sporting fanatics, foodies and more.”

There are still opportunities for traders and sponsors of all kinds to get involved. Trade packs are available from the brand new bespoke Galloway Country Fair website which is also new for 2014 www.gallowaycountryfair.co.uk The annual fair takes place on Saturday and Sunday, 16 and 17 August, from 9am-6pm. Tickets are priced at £12 for adults, £5 for ages 5-16, £10 for concessions and £30 for a family pass. Under-fives go free. Anyone buying tickets online will enjoy a 25 per cent discount if purchased online before 1 August.

Visit www.gallowaycountryfair.co.uk to keep up to date with the latest news.