Kent County Show: Our eight top tips

The Kent County Show is officially a firm favourite.

In fact, when the family planner is unwrapped at the start of the year, our trip to the showground is one of the first entries.

With the 2017 event taking place on Friday, July 7, to Sunday, July 9, here are our top tips to making the most of your visit to the showground...

Book your tickets early - there is money to be saved by buying your tickets online before the show. Don't be tempted to hedge your bets because of the weather. We have had a great time whether we've donned our flip flops to take advantage of the glorious weather or whether we've worn wellies because the heavens have decided to open.

Make the most of your day - there is so much to do once you arrive at the showground, it pays to get there early and plan to leave when it closes.

Persuade others to join you - the show genuinely has something for everyone evidenced by the fact the kids are joined by their aunts and uncles, their nanny and grandad and their mum's godparents. And they turn up every year.

Get a programme - while it's nice to wander aimlessly, it is worth grabbing a programme and planning what you want to see especially in the show rings. This year the motorbike stunt team left Oscar, five, open mouthed.

Make sure you meet the animals - putting the inevitable whines about the inevitable whiffs to one side, the children love seeing the cattle, sheep and horses.

This is three-year-old Olivia's favourite part of the day.

Get in the mood for food - snacks to keep the kids going are definitely a good idea and will help you to save money. Adults will love the various food stalls and exploring the food tent.

Fairground attraction - children are drawn to the rides like moths to the flame. Setting some boundaries will save you a small fortune. This year nanny and grandad gave Oscar a budget and his own money to pay with ensuring he learns about its value and only chooses the rides that he really wants to go on.

Bag a bargain - lots of stallholders cut their prices especially for the show. If you decide to splash the cash, it might be worth investing in a trolley.