What's happening at the New Forest Show in 2019?

The three-day event, which starts on Tuesday, is set to attract thousands of people to New Park in Brockenhurst.

With the number of entries for the competition classes higher than ever before, the event has plenty to keep visitors entertained and amused, so we've picked our highlights for this year.

1. Sheep, cattle, cake and veg competitons

​As mentioned above, the stakes are high in the competition classes this year. More than 1,300 sheep are competing in the sheep section, with poultry and flower arranging competitions also attracting more entries than ever before. And if you like cake (and who doesn't) then you'll be delighted to learn there are more than 200 entries ranging from cakes and pastries, preserves and yeast cookery. If animals and cake aren't your thing, then there is also a blacksmith's contest, photography and art competitions.

• PHOTOS: New Forest Show through the years

2. Family first 

There really is something for everyone to do at the New Forest Show. With a dedicated family fun area which includes circus workshops and songs from Sing Now Choir, youngsters can also have their face painted, colour walls and take part in craft activities. The Discovery Zone is also a highlight for many, with lots of educational activities to get the brain whirring. And don't forget the Fun Kitchen where families can cook up a storm together at six workshops each day. There's also the Longdown Dairy Farm where you can get up close with some furry and feathered friends.

3. Food, glorious food

There's plenty to whet your appetite and if it's sweltering, quench your thirst. From the Black Boar pub serving delights from Ringwood Brewery, to the local produce market showcasing local goodies, you won't go hungry. There's a food hall with more than 40 stands, along with the Garden Tearoom, a new addition to the Flower and Gardening Show. And if you fancy packing your own lunch, there's a dedicated picnic area.

4. Thriving traditions

A celebration of traditional country life remains the heart of the New Forest Show. From gun dog demonstrations to ferret racing, fly-casting and terrier racing, there's plenty to see. For a taste of nostalgia, visit the Old Time Farming section to see how agriculture has changed over the years. There is also a special celebration of 60 years of Massey Ferguson. And visitors can learn all about gypsy flower making with New Forest Coppice Crafts.

5. Showjumping and musical drive

It wouldn't be the New Forest Show without mentioning the superb standard of horse competitions including International Show Jumping as well as more than 50 ‘Horse of the Year Show’ qualifying classes. The main ring will see more than 2,500 horses and riders competing over the three-day event. Don't miss the heavy horses either, they really are something to behold.