As passionate specialists in reconditioned and refurbished Aga range cookers, we at John Wray couldn’t resist the opportunity to join one of the UK’s premier agricultural and lifestyle events – the Great Yorkshire Show. Held annually in Harrogate, this iconic four-day extravaganza draws crowds from across the country, blending rural traditions with modern innovations.

This year, from July 8th to 11th, we set up our stand amidst the bustling avenues of exhibitors, ready to share our love for timeless Aga cooking with enthusiastic visitors. It was an experience filled with warmth (quite literally, thanks to our demo pieces!), engaging conversations, and a real sense of community.

Setting the Scene: From Setup to Showtime

Arriving at the showground early, we transformed our allocated space into a cozy haven that echoed the heart of a country kitchen. Our stand featured a selection of beautifully refurbished Aga range cookers, each one meticulously restored to blend classic charm with reliable performance. To add a fun touch, we brought along our exclusive merchandise, including those cheeky mugs emblazoned with “I’d Rather Be Eating Aga Toast” – a nod to the simple joys of Aga life that always sparks a smile.

“I’d Rather Be Eating Aga Toast”

The atmosphere was electric right from the start. The Great Yorkshire Show isn’t just about agriculture; it’s a celebration of countryside living, with everything from livestock parades and equestrian displays to food halls brimming with local produce. Our location in the home and gift section put us in the perfect spot to connect with homeowners, chefs, and Aga aficionados browsing for that special addition to their homes. Despite the occasional Yorkshire shower, the crowds were undeterred, and our stand quickly became a hub for stories about cherished family Agas passed down through generations.

Highlights: Connections, Conversations, and Cooker Demos

What truly made the event memorable were the people. We chatted with hundreds of visitors, from first-time buyers curious about the benefits of a reconditioned Aga – like energy efficiency and that unbeatable radiant heat – to loyal owners seeking tips on maintenance. One highlight was discussing with an Aga enthusiast the benefits of converting an Aga to electric, something that they were completely unaware of. We even had a live setup where attendees could feel the gentle warmth and imagine simmering stews or baking fresh bread at home.

“This is just what I needed! A cost-effective option for getting an Aga range cooker without paying for a brand-new model.“

Sales were brisk, with several cookers finding new homes right off the stand, and our mugs flying off the shelves as quirky gifts. It was rewarding to hear feedback like, “This is just what I needed! A cost-effective option for getting an Aga range cooker without paying for a brand-new model.” We also networked with fellow exhibitors, swapping ideas on sustainable living and rural craftsmanship. The show’s emphasis on British heritage aligned perfectly with our ethos of breathing new life into pre-loved Agas, reducing waste while delivering top-quality appliances.

Wrapping Up: Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead

Running a stall at the Great Yorkshire Show was hard work but exhilarating – a testament to the enduring appeal of events that bring people together. We left with a van lighter on stock, a notebook full of leads, and hearts warmed by the genuine interest in our reconditioned Aga range cookers. If you missed us there, don’t worry; our full collection is available online, where you can browse refurbished models ready for delivery and installation.

For all things Aga, explore our latest stock here on this website and learn more about our refurbishment and re-enamelling process. And if you’re in the market for other country stoves, check out our dedicated site at John Wray Country Stoves.

Until next year, Yorkshire – here’s to more toast by the Aga!