The Story of the Showmen’s Guilds in the UK
The Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain has shaped the organisation, protection and recognition of the UK’s travelling fairground community for more than a century. Formed in response to restrictive laws, it has become both a trade body and a cultural foundation for generations of British showmen.
From Van Dwellers to Showmen
The story began in 1889 when the Van Dwellers’ Protection Association was created in Salford to oppose legislation such as the Moveable Dwellings Bill, which threatened the travelling lifestyle of fairground workers. The campaign succeeded, and by 1894 the organisation had adopted a new name — the Showmen’s Guild.
Over time, the Guild evolved from a defensive association into a unified voice for the travelling funfair industry, promoting the welfare and recognition of showmen as a distinct cultural group within British life.
Key milestones
- 1889: Van Dwellers’ Protection Association formed in Salford to resist unfair legislation.
- 1894: The Moveable Dwellings Bill defeated and the group renamed the Showmen’s Guild.
- 1907: Introduction of seven divisional committees to manage regional affairs.
- 1911: Official shortening of the name to the Showmen’s Guild.
- 1917: Formal registration as the trade association for the travelling funfair business, gaining authority to represent members at local and national level.
- 1994: Establishment of the National Fairground Archive at the University of Sheffield, supported by the Guild.
- Ongoing: Continuing advocacy, negotiation and community support for travelling showmen across the UK.
How the Guild operates
- Advocacy: Represents members in discussions with councils and government bodies, ensuring fair treatment for travelling fairs and circuses.
- Negotiation: Acts as the official voice for the funfair industry, mediating with local authorities on licensing, safety and planning.
- Code of Conduct: Maintains a formal rulebook to promote high standards of conduct and cooperation within the fairground community.
- Safety: Works with approved inspection bodies to uphold ride and equipment safety standards.
- Community: Provides support through benevolent funds and initiatives that help showmen and their families in times of need.
Culture and identity of British showmen
Beyond its role as a trade organisation, the Guild represents a unique cultural identity. The travelling showmen of Britain have their own traditions, language, customs and long family lineages. Many showmen have English, Scottish, Welsh or Irish ancestry, and while there are links to Romani and Irish Traveller communities, Showmen have developed as a distinct cultural group with their own heritage.
The Guild recognises and preserves this heritage through its work with archives, local authorities and event organisers. Its members operate hundreds of fairs and events across the country, from historic charter fairs and Wild West Parties & Events to modern Christmas Fairground Rides and major national celebrations.
The Guild today
Today, the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain represents around 4,000 members across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, forming a community of more than 20,000 people. It remains the recognised authority for travelling fairs, combining business representation with the preservation of a proud way of life.
The Guild continues to liaise with government departments, event organisers and local councils to ensure that traditional fairgrounds remain an active part of British culture. It also promotes safety, professionalism and respect within the industry, values reflected in every Fairground & Funfair Hire project operated by our team.