The build-up has started to a celebration of land, sea and sky at one of Norfolk's best-known beauty spots.

North Norfolk News: There will be rides galore at this year's Holkham Country Fair. Picture: HOLKHAMThere will be rides galore at this year's Holkham Country Fair. Picture: HOLKHAM (Image: Archant)

Early-bird tickets have gone on sale for the Holkham Country Fair, which promises two days of countryside pursuits, rural crafts, displays, food demonstrations, performances and more.

The July 20-21 event takes place in the grounds of Holkham Hall, near Wells-next-the-Sea.

Organiser Sarah Green said the fair, which happens once every two years, would be fun for all the family - four-legged friends included.

She said: 'This event really does offer something for everyone.

'With high-octane entertainment in the grand ring, hundreds of trade stands to impress even the most dedicated shopper, a food village filled with tasty treats, a cookery demonstration theatre showcasing local Norfolk talents and showground events to take part in or simply watch and get inspired.'

Highlights of the grand ring programme will include stunt riders from Atkinson Action Horses who will showcase the art of 'liberty' riding, as well an aerobatics display by Steve Carver, who is part of the Global Stars Formation Aerobatic Team.

Mr Carver, from Derbyshire, plans to perform 'unlimited' solo aerobatics in his Extra EA-260, one of just a handful of the single-prop planes ever built specifically for airborne stunts.

The fair will also see the return of the Household Cavalry Musical Ride, CJ's Bird of Prey, the Mounted Games of Great Britain and Allcomers' Dog Racing.

The fair was started in 1977 by the late 7th Earl of Leicester, Edward Coke, to educate youngsters about the countryside, and children under 14 still get free admission.

Ms Green said: '2019 is already looking to be our best yet with such a superb array of countryside attractions and non-stop entertainment over two days amongst beautiful surroundings. We look forward to welcoming visitors – returning and new – in July.'

Advanced, 'Vice President' and weekend camping tickets are now on sale at an early bird rate until May 27, visit www.holkhamcountryfair.co.uk for more admission or to book.

The country fair is held with the permission of the permission of the Earl and Countess of Leicester, who own the estate.