It's time to try your paw!
In partnership with Mains Cottages & Shepherds Retreats
Ever wondered what your dog would LOVE to try? Now’s your chance! From high-speed Flyball to sniff-tastic scent work, there’s loads of activities happening all weekend.
Big dogs, small dogs, speedy pups or seniors—there’s something for every paw; and with amazing local trainers and clubs running the sessions, you might just discover your dog’s new favourite thing!
Some activities may have a small fee (often supporting local clubs or charities), so don’t forget to bring cash.
Welcoming dogs & their families for more than a decade
Discover your next dog-friendly escape in Northumberland
Based near Beadnell in Northumberland, Mains Cottages is a family run business offering dog-friendly self-catering stays for groups of all sizes—from cosy shepherd’s huts to large cottages sleeping up to 26 guests.
With over 13 years of experience, their close-knit team (and Riva, their four-legged inspector) make sure every stay is relaxed, welcoming, and truly dog-friendly—whether you're travelling with one dog or many.
From homemade dog biscuit welcome packs to secure gardens and coastal adventures on your doorstep, they’re passionate about helping you and your dog make the most of every escape. Scroll down to find out more!
What can your dog try this year?
In partnership with Mains Cottages & Shepherds Retreats
Don't forget that Flyball, Fastest Recall, Temptation Alley and Hoopers all have leaderboards for the fastest hourly dog; in partnership with our Activity Sponsor Mains Cottages & Shepherds Retreats.
Agility
Has your dog got what it takes to negotiate the jumps, weaves and tunnels in our have a go agility rings. Maybe they are the next superstar in the making. Don't forget to watch the pros in the main ring displays.
Gundog Scurries
Every year our Gundog Area gets bigger and this year is no different as we welcome Nordic Gundogs and The Northern Gundog Club. Over with Nordic Dogs you can try the novice scurry, advanced scurry and even a hunt scurry (complete with fake birds and cover!) The Lure course will return in a bigger area this year and the popular water obstacle returns! Whilst the Northern Gundog Club will be
Flyball
They've been with us since day one and they are a festival favourite for so many visitors. Join Eclipse Flyball and their team to introduce your dog to the wonderful world of flyball. You can also catch them in the main arena. Does your dog love a toy and love to run? Then this might be just the sport for them!
Scent Hurdling
Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience with the latest addition Scent Hurdling! Watch as your dog leaps over obstacles, conquering challenges while following a scent trail. This fast-paced sport combines excitement, skill, and the joy of teamwork, making it a fun and rewarding activity for dogs and handlers alike.
Hoopers
Join Aim Higher Canine Services to step into the wonderful world of hoopers. Hoopers is a low-impact, fast-paced dog sport that focuses on flowing courses using hoops, barrels, and tunnels. It’s suitable for dogs of all ages and breeds—no jumping required! Great for building teamwork, confidence, and fun between dog and handler. Come and give it a go at the festival!
Canny Canines
Temptation Alley - Fastest Recall
If you have a speedy hound then our fastest recall is for you, timed against the clock, only the quickest will get those fabulous rosettes! Think your dog can resist tempation? then add fastest recall with plenty of toys, food, and distractions and you'll get our temptation alley. Speed and focus are a must. You can also have a go at their agility course.
Trick Training
Rebecca and her team will be joining us again to host short trick training sessions which are all about teaching your dog clever tricks.
TrailDog
CaniSports Area
The ‘TRAILDOG CaniSports Area’ will offer the chance to get fitted for a canicross harness and belt, and have a go at canicross. We will also have a mini-UltiMutt course set up (a taster of our obstacle 5k in September). Both will be FREE to try. Also featured in this area will be a Non-stop dogwear shop and TRAILDOG merch store.
Mantrailing
Mantrailing is like a giant game of hide and seek with your dog! Working as a team, using your dogs amazing sense of smell to follow a scent trail and find their trail layer = big party at the end! Mantrailing is an inclusive sport, almost any dog can join in, including dog or people reactive, nervous, no recall? no problem, everything is done on the lead.
Quick Fire Questions with our Activity Sponsor Mains Cottages...
What's your elevator pitch?
Family-run, multi-dog-friendly self-catering accommodation close to the coast in Beadnell, offering cottages and Shepherds Huts that accommodate 2 to 26 guests, operated for 13 years by a close-knit family team. (Our accommodation is multi-award-winning with a Visit England Gold Award). Want to chill in the garden and count the stars? Perfect! As we are also dark sky friendly.
Riva, one of our Border Collie's also takes part by checking out the secure gardens for dogs.
Quick Fire Questions with our Activity Sponsor Mains Cottages...
Are you dog friendly?
Absolutely ! We allow multiple dogs – not just 2. The most we've had stay is 14 dogs staying between 3 properties. They were a mix of agility and flyball Collies and Spaniels and were fantastic!
Each cottage features its own secure, fenced garden to keep your furry friend safe and sound but when you do venture out there are plenty of beautiful beach walks right from the cottages, with walking guides available for you.
All the local beaches are dog-friendly, and even the pubs at the end of the walks welcome dogs, with some serving “dog beer” and snacks!
