Meet the Flock! The Surrey Hills Sheep Parade Makes Its Grand Debut

A colourful new flock is coming to Denbies this August, although these particular sheep will not require feeding, shearing or much encouragement to pose for a photograph.

Taking place on Wednesday 26 August, from 11.00am to 3.00pm, the free event will see the full collection of life-sized sheep sculptures unveiled together for the very first time. Each member of the flock has been transformed by a Surrey artist into a unique work of art, inspired by the character of the Surrey Hills.

Rob Fairbanks, Director of Surrey Hills Enterprises comments: "The Surrey Hills Sheep Parade is a wonderful example of how creativity can inspire positive change. Sheep play a vital role in shaping the landscape that so many people love to explore, and this campaign celebrates their importance while encouraging a simple action that can make a real difference."

He adds: By bringing together local artists, farmers and communities, we hope the flock will spark conversations, raise awareness and help protect our livestock, our farming community and our outstanding landscape for generations to come."

Once introduced at Denbies, the herd will travel together across the Surrey Hills National Landscape, carrying with them one simple but important countryside message: keep dogs on leads around livestock.

The launch fittingly takes place on National Dog Day and will include live dog training demonstrations, the chance to meet a shepherd, children’s activities and the serious business of naming the sheep. Dogs are very welcome to join the celebrations too, provided they remain on leads.

Oliver Whitfield, Estate Manager at Denbies Wine Estate, comments: “We have hosted many unusual visitors at Denbies over the years, but an entire flock of brightly decorated sheep is certainly a first.”

 

He adds: “The Surrey Hills may look peaceful, but it is also a working landscape. Even a well-behaved dog can cause real distress to livestock, so keeping dogs on leads around sheep makes a genuine difference. The Sheep Parade shares that important message in a positive and memorable way.”

Once introduced at Denbies, the sculptures will connect some of the area’s best-known destinations, encouraging people to discover more of the Surrey Hills while looking out for the individual designs.

There may even be a little friendly competition over which sheep becomes the crowd favourite. Join us at Denbies on Wednesday 26 August, from 11.00am to 3.00pm, for art, countryside stories, clever dogs, creative activities and more brightly decorated sheep than you are ever likely to meet.