Bark in the Park returns to Raby Castle this September
Dog owners, this one’s for you. One of the North’s loveliest dog-friendly days out is returning this September, bringing everything from fun dog shows and training sessions to treats, shopping and plenty of countryside walks.
Bark in the Park returns to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens on Sunday 27th September, taking over the County Durham estate from 10am to 4pm for a full day dedicated to our four-legged friends.
Set against the rather impressive backdrop of Raby Castle, the annual event brings together activities, demonstrations and independent traders, with dogs very much the guests of honour.
Enter your pup into the Fun Dog Show
One of the highlights of the day is the Fun Dog Show, with owners able to enter their dogs into a selection of light-hearted categories on the day.
Forget perfect pedigrees - titles up for grabs include Most Like Their Owner and Coolest Canine, making this one as much about personality as it is good behaviour.
There will also be plenty of opportunities to pick up a few new skills. Dog training experts will be hosting interactive sessions throughout the day, while Newton Aycliffe Dog Training Club will showcase canine hoopers and Good Citizen demonstrations.
Nordic Dogs will also be putting pups through their paces with gundog scurries, hurdles and a lure.
Treats, shopping and pet portraits
Naturally, there’s shopping involved too.
A hand-picked selection of traders will be setting up shop with everything from gourmet dog treats and toys to leads and outdoor gear - and perhaps an early Christmas present or two for particularly well-behaved pups.
For something a little more personal, Pawtrait Art Studio will be at the event creating live illustrations and hand-painted pet artwork, so you can leave with a keepsake of your favourite companion.
Make a day of it
Tickets for Bark in the Park also include access to Raby’s dog-friendly Deer Park and five-acre Walled Gardens, so once you’ve explored the event, you can head off for a walk around the estate with views of the castle along the way.
Dogs will need to stay on their leads in both the Deer Park and Walled Gardens.
A limited number of early bird tickets are available online, priced at £10 for adults and £8 for children aged four to 15, or £36 for a family ticket covering two adults and two children. Dogs and children under four go free.
On-the-day tickets will be charged at the standard Deer Park and Gardens admission rate of £15 for adults, £10 for children or £46 for a family ticket.
Bark in the Park takes place at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens on Sunday 27th September from 10am to 4pm.
For tickets and more information, visit raby.co.uk/events/bark-in-the-park.
