Fun In The Sun
Thinking of things to do this summer but don’t want to leave your dog behind? Check out these wonderful dog-themed or dog-friendly events happening across the UK. We are firm believers that no family member, especially our four-legged friends, should miss out on the fun!
1. Paws at the Palace
First up is Paws at the Palace taking place at Scone Palace in Perthshire on Sunday the 3rd of September. Paws at the Palace will feature doggy fun and games, parades of different breeds, agility classes and some paw-some demonstrations.The all day event will also include food stalls (for humans and dogs), cool-down areas, and a host of stall holders selling doggy gear and gifts.
Learn more here.
2. The Great Hampstead Bark Off
The Great Hampstead Bark Off will be taking place on Parliament Hill Cricket Pitch, Hampstead Heath on Sunday 16th July 2023 from 11am – 4pm. This event is organised by the charity, 'All Dogs Matter’, who work tirelessly to rehabilitate and re-home dogs in need, meaning all proceeds go to an amazing cause. The charity promises a day of dog-filled fun, with the main event being a brilliant dog show with six different categories for your pup to enter; Golden Oldie, Miss Hampstead Heath, Best Rescue, Mr Hampstead Heath, Best International Rescue, and Waggiest Tail. In addition to this, there will be a raffle draw and plenty of stalls catering to both pups and their owners. It is important to note, however, that this event will be postponed if the temperature exceeds 23 degrees Celsius on the day to keep our dogs safe. Like at the Pride Dog Walk, if it is warm on the day, costumes are of course discouraged, as we want our dogs to enjoy the day as much as us!
Learn more here.
3. Portabello Pride Prom Dog Walk
Second on our list is something local to us in Edinburgh, the annual Portobello Pride Prom Dog Walk! Dig out your most colourful accessories and prepare for rainbows and sparkles galore as you and your pup strut your stuff. This event is taking place on Saturday 8th July 2023, 11am to 1pm. Meet at the bottom of Kings Rd at 11:45am to start walking at 11am. There will even be prizes for the pups who demonstrate the most creative flair on the day! Please note that costumes are discouraged if it is especially warm, and it is important to ensure your dog’s safety and comfort comes first.
Learn more here.
4. Morden Hall park
Our next suggestion is something you and your pup can do all year round! Fancy visiting a beautiful historic location with your pup? The dog-friendly Morden Hall Park is a National Trust park on the banks of the Wandle in Morden, south London. It boasts 120 acres of parkland at the heart of which is Morden Hall, a listed grade II building that stands within a moated enclosure at the centre of the estate. More than this, within the park you can visit the original Snuff Mills, which is what once brought in the estate's income, and has now been restored to a learning centre. Most importantly, dogs are allowed almost everywhere within the park. A pawfect day out!
Learn more here.
5. Tatton Flower Show
The final event on our list is the RHS Tatton flower show in Cheshire, taking place on Sunday 23rd July 2023. This event, although not dog-themed, is a wonderful, dog-friendly day out for all the family! Taking place in beautiful, vast gardens, the show of course promises gorgeous blooms, as well as talks and workshops from gardening, culinary, and floral experts. There is also a family trail to explore, delicious food to indulge in, and plenty of unique gift shops to peruse. The event will also host a stand for the brilliant charity, Canine Partners, who work tirelessly to train assistance dogs and partner them with adults with complex disabilities living across the UK, which transforms lives. Remember to look out for them at the show to find out more about their amazing work.
Learn more here.
As with any event, it’s important to do your research before you go. This is especially important when taking your pup so you can keep their needs in mind when planning days out. Of course, always remember to bring a snack and plenty of fresh water for your dog, ensure they are given breaks throughout the day, check their collar or harness is secure before you leave, and consider how your dog has reacted to crowds in the past. All of this will keep you and your pup safe, ensuring you have the best time possible on your day out!