Things to do and dig-friendly places to visit this June!
Royal Cornwall Show & Dog Show
Royal Cornwall Events Centre, Wadebridge, 5 – 7June
The Royal Cornwall Show is Cornwall’s premier agricultural event, celebrated annually since 1793. This year’s show is held at the Royal Cornwall Events Centre near Wadebridge. Each day features a dedicated dog show segment; visit the website to find out when each dog will feature during the show.
The dog shows attract around 1,000 entries, showcasing a diverse range of breeds and offering an excellent opportunity for enthusiasts to learn all about the different breeds and their histories. The event offers a range of activities, including livestock competitions, main ring entertainment, a food and farming pavilion, live music, funfair (great for the kids!) and a countryside village. The event also features over 1,000 trade stands, providing a huge selection of products and services.
Visit: royalcornwallshow.org
Woofstock
Powderham Castle Estate, 12-14 June
Woofstock is a family-friendly, award-winning festival, celebrating its eleventh year, offering a unique blend of live music, engaging dog shows, and interactive demonstrations. There’ll be agility displays, police dog exhibitions, obedience trials, and a variety of contests such as distraction alley and hay bale racing. The event also features a diverse shopping village, a climbing wall, and a dedicated puppy area. In the evenings, Woofstock transforms into a dog-friendly music festival, with performances scheduled for Friday and Saturday nights. The festival caters to both day visitors and those wishing to immerse themselves fully by offering camping options, including the VIP (Very Important Pooches) glamping experience, which provides added luxury for festivalgoers and their dogs.
Visit woofstockuk.co.uk
Knebworth House
Hertfordshire, 7-8 June, Tatton Park, Cheshire, 21-22 June
DogFest is a vibrant, dog-friendly festival that celebrates the special bond between dogs and their owners. This year, the festival will be held at two scenic UK locations – Knebworth House and Tatton Park. Each event offers a weekend packed with activities for both dogs and their families. Highlights include have-a-go activities, with interactive challenges such as agility, flyball, and scent work. There’ll be expert talks, performances and displays by skilled dogs showcasing their very impressive tricks, a live stage with music from local bands and tribute acts, a dedicated play area for children, and a marketplace for all your dog shopping needs, packed with all the goodies from dog accessories to treats.
Find out more by visiting dogfest.co.uk
Places to visit:
Lyme, Cheshire
Located near Disley, Lyme is a vast National Trust estate that is incredibly dog-friendly. Featuring moorland, gardens, and a lake, there’s so much to explore and plenty of space for the dogs to exercise and enjoy. Dogs are welcome year-round, with designated off-lead areas in Knightslow Wood and Pursefield Wood. The estate also has a play area for children, where dogs are allowed on a short lead. Lyme Park is a beautiful place to visit, especially on a gorgeous summer’s day. Take a picnic, or stop and relax at the Timber Yard Café which is also dog-friendly.
Soar Mill Cove, Devon
Located near Salcombe in Devon, Soar Mill Cove is a stunning, secluded beach that welcomes dogs year-round. The cove offers a peaceful retreat with its sandy shore and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for both you and your dog to enjoy a scenic coastal walk or a refreshing splash in the sea during the summer months. With no seasonal restrictions, your dog can roam freely along the beach, and the surrounding cliffs provide a beautiful backdrop for your outing. If you live locally, or are visiting the area, it’s well worth a trip even just to soak up the breathtaking views.
Lickey Hills Country Park, West Midlands
Lickey Hills Country Park, just south of Birmingham, is a fantastic dog-friendly destination, with gorgeous open countryside views, mature woodlands, walking trails and large expanses of water to explore. Dogs on leads are welcome, and there are various walking routes suitable for all fitness levels – from a gentle stroll to the more challenging trails. There are designated areas where you can let your dog have some time off-lead, and plenty of picnic spots to stop and relax. The Windmill Café within the park offers dog-friendly treats, including special sausages and ice creams for dogs. Well worth a visit if you’re in the area or wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of Birmingham city centre.
The Hermitage and Black Linn Falls, Perthshire
A must-visit if you are holidaying in Scotland is The Hermitage and Black Linn Falls, located near Dunkeld in Perthshire. A stunning natural escape that is perfect for dog lovers – this picturesque walk takes you through a beautiful forest of Douglas firs, leading to the impressive Black Linn Falls, where you can enjoy the sounds of the water and lush surroundings. Dogs on leads are welcome to explore the 1.5-mile trail, where you’ll enjoy a peaceful hike with your dog. It’s a fantastic dog-friendly destination in the heart of Scotland’s nature.