One historic estate is bringing back a daytime event designed for canine pets and their owners.
Bark in the Park is scheduled to take place at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens near Darlington in the UK on Sunday 27 September, offering a day of activities set against the backdrop of the historic castle grounds. Operators of the estate are positioning the day as a comprehensive outdoor experience that combines entertainment, training demonstrations and specialist retail.
Programming for the day features a variety of visitor participation elements, including a Fun Dog Show. Owners attending the event can enter their pets on the day into several lighthearted categories, which feature titles such as ‘Most Like Their Owner’ and ‘Coolest Canine’. Alongside the show, dog training experts will be leading interactive sessions where guests can learn new techniques and practise them under professional supervision. For those looking for a permanent memento, a pet portrait artist from Pawtrait Art Studio will be on site to provide live illustrations and hand-painted art of visiting animals.
The event also includes scheduled visual entertainment provided by regional specialist groups. The Newton Aycliffe Dog Training Club will deliver canine hoopers and Good Citizen demonstrations for the crowds. Additionally, Nordic Dogs will run a series of active challenges, including gundog scurries, hurdles and a lure.
Event programming and outdoor access
Retail operations form another key component of the event schedule. The site will host a selected group of traders selling specialist products, ranging from gourmet dog treats and toys to leads and rugged outdoor equipment suited for the approaching winter months.
Standard event admission also incorporates access to the broader estate. Visitors holding tickets for Bark in the Park will be granted free entry to the estate’s dog-friendly Deer Park and the five-acre Walled Gardens, where all dogs are required to remain on a lead.
Sophie Brown, sales and events manager at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, commented on the upcoming schedule. “We can’t wait to welcome new and returning four-legged pals to Raby this autumn for our popular dog show event,” she said. “It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up a few treats, test out some new skills and enjoy a fun-filled day out in the great outdoors alongside other dog lovers.”
Early bird admission purchased online in advance is priced at £10 for adults, £8 for children aged four to 15, and £36 for a family ticket covering two adults and two children. Visitors booking on the day will pay the standard Deer Park and Gardens admission rates, which are £15 for adults, £10 for children and £46 for a family. Dogs and children under four are admitted free of charge. Bookings are open online here.
