FamilyPets & Animals

Affordable dog-friendly festivals coming to a town near you

Are you one of the third of UK households that own a dog? It should therefore come as no surprise to discover dog-friendly weekends and festivals are on the rise. Here are six to consider taking your four legged friend to.

Dogstival

When? 30-31 May
Where? Burley Park, New Forest, Hampshire
What to expect: Beach resort vibes with palm trees, foam parties, paddling pools, DJs and 100-piece Rock Choir. There’s have-a-go activities such as flyball jumps, weaving through the agility arenas or tackling scurries sniffing out treats or toys. There’s also a Barkour adventure playground for dogs of all sizes, three swimming pools, and scent training. Plus the UK’s only dog cookery school. Need more? Grab a delicious ‘puptail’ or head to one of the selection of street food stalls available.
Can you camp? No
What’s the cost? £10 for children and £18 for adults

Woofstock

When? 12-14 June
Where? Powderham Castle, near Exeter
What to expect: This event has been hailed as ‘Glastonbury for dogs and their humans’ – an impressive statement if we say so at least. A gathering of canines and their companions, there will be live music in the evenings, along with action-packed days crammed with dog shows, speakers, agility, flyball and police dog displays. Don’t forget to let them sniff out the ‘Pawcasso’ tent and have a mooch around the tempting artisan market to feel suitably spoilt. 
Can you camp? Yes
What’s the cost? From £17.50

Barklove

When? 5 July
Where? SWG3 venue, Glasgow
What to expect: Following its debut last year, dogs big and small should love their day at Scotland’s most stylish fur-fest. Highlights include dog-friendly DJ sets and live dog art, plus a top-notch agility area. You can also enjoy chill out sessions and a range of workshops aimed to inspire and inform. Explore at canine pace, safe in the knowledge everything has been designed to thrill your favourite friend. And yes, two-legged visitors will be well catered for, too.
Can you camp? No
What’s the cost? £8.50 for children and £13.50 for adults

Dog Lovers Festival

When? 21-23 August
Where? Elvaston Castle, Derby
What to expect: The UK’s biggest dog-friendly tribute festival’s been voted by The Daily Telegraph as one of the top 10 dog events in the UK. There’s a Fun Dog Show running on both days, great for both competitors and spectators. You can also expect a scurry run, lure chasing, steeplechase, hide and seek, doggie dip, and tips from dog specialists. There’s stalls to buy pretty much everything they need, food and drink to enjoy, and some of the best tribute bands performing across the weekend.
Can you camp? Yes
What’s the cost? From £15

All About Dogs Show

When? 12-13 September
Where? Knebworth House, Knebworth Park, Stevenage
What to expect: There’s other locations to head to for the All About Dogs Shows (Suffolk, Berkshire, Essex, and Norfolk), but we’re heading to its Knebworth location – new for 2026. There’s shows and breed meet-ups, as well as fantastic arena displays and even. dog foam party. But that’s not all – added to the line-up are competitions, live music, and even a one-of-a-kind Canine Comedy Cinema. Just don’t forget your pupcorn.
Can you camp? No
What’s the cost? From £10 for children and £15 for adults, with family tickets £37

Dogfest

When? 3-4 October
Where? Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
What to expect: If you’re not close to Sussex, Cheshire or Yorkshire (where else the show is on) it’s here to head. Explore the grounds with your four-legged friend, then check out the selection of food and stalls. Added to that are Royal-themed dog shows, breed meet-ups, and interactive activities. Why not head to the Palace Lawn for games, and daily quizzes? And don’t forget to visit the Photo Booth for a free commemorative photo. All you’ve got to do is get your pup to strike a pose.
Can you camp? No
What’s the cost? From £10 for children and £24.50 for adults

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