Countryside and Creation at the Royal Norfolk Show

The Rev Kate Bottley visits the Royal Norfolk Show – one of the largest agricultural events in the country, and one that has been celebrating food and farming in the county for nearly 180 years.

Kate is one of the thousands of people in attendance and meets Christians living out their faith in rural communities across Norfolk.

The Bishop of Lynn, the Rt Rev Jane Steen, welcomes Kate and explains why having a Christian presence at the show is important and why this year’s theme of celebrating culture and collaboration is so appropriate.

New for 2026 is the show’s Carnival of Cultures, and the African Choir of Norfolk take centre stage, bringing joyful song and dance to the proceedings. We hear from the leader of the choir, Anna Mudeka, about the importance of togetherness and about their recent involvement at the archbishop of Canterbury’s installation service.

Kate then meets the vicar taking on the new role of rural chaplain in the county, the Rev Dr Tim Weatherstone. From the church tent, Tim coordinates 12 chaplains who offer a listening ear to the thousands of visitors and participants.

And Kate meets some woolly friends in the rare breed animal section, with third generation farmer Gail Sprake. Gail shares her love of the show and how she feels God’s helping hand when bringing lambs into the world.

With music from churches in Norfolk and beyond:

1. Alleluya, Sing to Jesus – St John the Baptist, Timberhill, Norwich
2. All Creatures of Our God and King – Celtic Worship
3. In My Heart – House on the Rock, London
4. How Shall I Sing That Majesty – St Andrew the Apostle, Holt
5. The Lord’s My Shepherd – Kendal Parish Church
6. To Thee, O Lord, Our Hearts We Raise – St Andrew the Apostle, Holt