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The annual sheep dog trials, staged at Blore near Ashbourne in August each year, appeal to all who are interested not only in dog trialling but also those who enjoy the magnificent scenery, coupled with local heritage and traditional skills. It is a local event that attracts dog handlers from across the UK, and also Europe and farther afield on occasions. It also draws a great deal of support from tourists visiting the area. There are a number of families who make Dovedale Sheep Dog Trials an annual pilgrimage and organise their summer holidays to coincide with the trials.
The ultimate critics !
If you have never been before we are certain you will not only enjoy the spectacle of some of the country’s top sheep dog handlers plying their trade but also taking in the wonderful scenery and soaking up the atmosphere. Where there are sheep dog trials there are shepherds and where there are shepherds there is always plenty of light-hearted banter!
Located in Ilam, Derbyshire
The trials site, situated at Blore Crossroads, near Ilam, is located on the Okeover Estate, home to Sir Andrew and Lady Philippa Walker-Okeover, and forms part of an estate farm which is tenanted and farmed by Robert Rowlinson. We are, as always, most grateful to Sir Andrew and Lady Philippa and Robert, for allowing us to use the site for our annual trials.
The site extends to some 40 acres with a west-facing slope, similar to an amphitheatre, so that viewing is good from almost anywhere on site, and has two access points from the crossroads at Blore. In addition to the trials course itself, the site provides ample space for car parking, toilets, catering, an ice cream van, a craft marquee, and a small number of trade stands.
The top part of the site sloping down from it’s highest point that provides the trials course of a size and standard appropriate for not only the annual sheep dog trials but also the English National Competition. For the safety of spectators, sheep and dogs alike, the course is fenced off by a post and sheep netting fence which ensures an unencumbered view from all angles.
