Balmoral Show Returns Amid Rising Pressures for Northern Ireland’s Farmers

The 156th Balmoral Show opens its gates on Wednesday at the Eikon Centre, showcasing the vibrancy of Northern Ireland’s agricultural community. But behind the scenes of livestock parades, food tastings, and farm machinery displays, farmers are grappling with growing challenges that cast a shadow over the celebration.

Despite being one of the biggest events in the farming calendar, this year’s show comes at a time of unprecedented pressure within the sector. From disease outbreaks to tax uncertainty and environmental regulations, farmers say the current climate is tougher than ever.

Health Crises and Financial Strain

Among the top concerns is bovine tuberculosis (TB), with infection levels hovering near record highs. Farmer Sean McAuley, a spokesperson for Farmers for Action, described his first experience with bovine TB last year as “a shock to the system.”

“I can fully relate now to the pressure it puts farmers and their families under,” he said. “You see your business disappearing.”

Meanwhile, a housing order for poultry, introduced to prevent the spread of avian flu, was only lifted recently after 12 weeks—adding further stress to the poultry sector.

Another source of growing anxiety is the inheritance tax reform, described by the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) as the biggest shake-up in a generation. UFU President William Irvine said, “The majority of questions we’ll get at the show this year will be about inheritance tax and bovine TB, followed by the Nutrients Action Programme consultation.”

Environmental Pressures and Planning Frustrations

Despite high prices for commodities like milk and beef, the environmental responsibilities on farmers are growing. Cormac McKervey, head of agriculture at Ulster Bank, said while farming contributes significantly to Northern Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions, the sector also offers solutions.

“Farming can absorb carbon through soil. The conversation now is about overall sustainability—economically and environmentally. Farmers are engaging with that, and the supply chain is driving it,” he said.

But beyond sustainability, farmers face hurdles in planning and investment. “I have one son interested in farming,” said McAuley. “But planning permissions are a real issue if we want to diversify or grow.”

A Celebration with Purpose

Despite the difficult backdrop, the Balmoral Show remains a beacon of pride, community, and tradition. “It’s a day to catch up, to celebrate, and to showcase the best of our sector,” said Mr Irvine. “Even with all the challenges, people will still come to enjoy the show.”

The show also offers a vital platform for connecting the public with the farming world. “It lets them understand that what we’re doing is good, wholesome, and natural food,” added McKervey.

When and Where

The Balmoral Show runs from Wednesday to Saturday at the Eikon Centre, near Lisburn. It opens daily at 09:30 BST and closes at:

• 18:00 on Wednesday and Saturday
• 20:00 on Thursday
• 19:00 on Friday

Ticket Information

• Tickets must be purchased online in advance (not available at the gate).
• Early bird prices (valid until Tuesday at 22:00):
  • Adults: £26.00
  • Youth (12-18): £19.00
  • Concession (65+): £21.00
  • Child (5-11): £3.00
  • Under 5s: Free

Group bookings are available for schools, hospitals, and groups of 10+.

Getting There

By train: Lisburn Train Station is less than 15 minutes away. A free shuttle service runs between the station and the showgrounds throughout the day.

By car:

• From the west/northwest: M1 to junction 8, then follow signs
• From Lisburn: Moira Road route
• From Belfast/northeast: M1 south via Sprucefield
• From the south: A1 dual carriageway

Parking is available on-site for £10 per car (cash only).

As thousands prepare to descend on Balmoral Park, the event remains not just a celebration, but a vital forum for dialogue, resilience, and recognition of the challenges facing the agricultural heart of Northern Ireland.