Scottish Game Fairs: Events and Traditions

The Game Fair event began in 1958 at Stetchworth Park, Newmarket, England. Nigel Gray and Charles Coles created the event to bring together gamekeepers and landowners to discuss game shooting and to help promote the sport. The first Game Fair brought over 8500 people together, and featured falconry, game rearing, clay pigeon shooting, gundog trials and a Gunmakers Row. They also offered a pop-up cinema that had films showing throughout the day- this must have been a crowd pleaser as it returned in 1959 for the second Game Fair.

1958 Game Fair Programme- Image 'The Game Fair'

It is hard to pinpoint an exact year that Scotland hosted its first Game Fair, we can only assume it was well attended as we still have a number of Game Fairs across Scotland.

Holland and Holland- Gunmakers Row Brochure

While hunting and gun laws have changed significantly since the 1950s, Gunmakers Row is still a popular spot at any Game Fair. Crowds gather to scout and admire a range of shotguns, rifles, game guns, clay guns and airguns. 

Fishing at The Scottish Game Fair (Image- Scottish Game Fair)

Pay a visit to Fishing Village, whether you are a seasoned professional or just cast your hand to fishing every now and again- there is something for everyone. Most Game Fairs offer workshops, where you can learn how to cast, fish and gain invaluable knowledge about bait and tackle. Some Fairs even host competitions or challenges to compete for a grand trophy and prizes. 

Alongside all the exciting exhibitions and demonstrations the Gundog Trials are a very well attended part of all game fairs, where you can watch working dogs being put through their paces and you’ll be impressed by their abilities and their handlers. The dogs are tested on their hunting, marking and retrieving abilities as well as their steadiness to shot, while their handlers are being marked on their directions and control of their dog. It is definitely worth paying a visit to the gundog trial area- after all who doesn't love a four legged, tail wagging friend.

Gundog Trials (Image- The Game Fair)

The first working gundog trials were held in 1965 in Bedfordshire and it wasn't long until similar events were popping up across Scotland. The sport was aimed at country gentleman as a hobby and many became very competitive as the sport grew. It became a way to help train working dogs and to continue to breed them, too.

Image- Gundog Journal

Falconry at Scottish Game Fair (Image- Scottish Field-Sandy Young Photography)

Bird of prey can be spotted across Scotland, however almost always just a fleeting moment or just a quick passing glimpse. Falconry demonstrations and talks offer visitors an opportunity to see the birds up close and even learn a few interesting facts along the way. The Falconry at Game Fairs is a crowd favourite, it is one of the oldest field sports (over 4000 years old) and has become an important part in preserving game and field history. Will you be brave enough to pop on the glove and hold a Falcon?

Red Hot Chilli Pipers (GWCT Scottish Game Fair - 2024)

Typical Game Fair entertainment includes live music, in 2024 the Scottish Game Fair tied field and heritage together when they brought on The Red Hot Chilli Pipers. They were a great addition to the weekend, so much so they are returning for 2025.

INEOS Automotive are partnered with The Game Fair and The Scottish Game Fair, meaning that you can get to see these 4x4s up close and personal. In 2024 INEOS displayed a Doddie'5 Tartan 4x4. On display will be a Grenadier Quartermaster pick-up and Chassis Cab versions, provides best-in-class off-road capability, durability and reliability to those who depend on a vehicle for work, adventure or leisure, wherever they are in the world.

Doddie'5 Tartan 4x4

The GWCT Scottish Game Fair is a favourite in the rural calendar, celebrating Scotland's rich country sports heritage, conservation efforts and countryside culture. Held at the stunning Scone Palace, the event brings sporting enthusiasts, families and countryside lovers for a weekend of clay shooting, gundog displays, fishing, falconry and more.

Along side the action packed programme, visitors can explore artisan food, rural crafts and of course our luxury range of tartans and tweeds, making it a perfect day out for all ages.

Discover all of our Events.

When it comes to dressing for the GWCT Scottish Game Fair, nothing says classic countryside style like ScotlandShop tweeds. Our men's tweed jackets, waistcoats and trousers are tailored with traditional fabrics in rich, earthy tones and patterns. Whether you prefer a bold check or a subtle herringbone, our tweeds offer a refined, practical look that's perfect for the rural setting.

Designed for comfort, durability and timeless style, our range of tweeds ensure you look the part, whether you're enjoying the displays, trying your hand at fishing or just there to soak up the atmosphere.

Men's Style Guide- Moodboard

Here is one idea of how to style our Tweed jacket, combining classic country style with practical comfort. Pair your jacket with a quarter Eight Cap and tweed brogues in a complimentary or matching tweed. The combination of the deep earthy tones and our high quality fabric makes this a timeless and versatile look, ideal for navigating the fair in both style and comfort.

Women's Style Guide- Moodboard

This look features our beautiful tailored women's tweed jacket, paired with our popular tweed mini kilt. Finish your outfit with a pair of leather loafers or trendy knee high boots, helping to strike the balance between elegance and practicality. Making this a perfect option walking around the grounds of Scone Palace. 

We hope this helps you understand what events and traditions take place during a Game Fair. With our beautifully crafted tweeds, you can step into the event with confidence, comfort and a strong sense of tradition. Don't forget to send us your pictures of your tweed outfits.