Festive Fun for Paws & People: Dog Friendly Christmas Events

From glowing woodland walks to Santa Paws selfies there are plenty of things to do at Christmas, here’s your guide to the UK’s most pawsome festive events for dogs and their humans!

Christmas is a truly magical time – twinkling lights, cosy winter walks, and that irresistible scent of mulled wine and mince pies in the air. And, at Bruce’s, we know it’s even better when shared with our four-legged family (although we don’t advise you to share the wine or mince pies with them!)

There are plenty of dog friendly Christmas activities taking place near our 11 Bruce’s Doggy Day Care centres across the UK.

Whether you fancy a glowing woodland walk or a doggy “Santa Paws” photo, we’ve rounded up some of the best options for festive fun with your pup.

What Makes a Christmas Event Dog-Friendly?

Before heading out, keep these tips in mind to make sure everyone stays safe and happy:

• Check dog rules first – Some events have dedicated “dog-friendly” sessions or outdoor-only areas.
• Book ahead – Especially for light trails or Santa photo slots.
• Go at quieter times – Weekday evenings or early slots mean fewer crowds and calmer dogs.
• Pack essentials – Water, poo bags, reflective gear, and a coat for chillier pups.
• Mind the terrain – Watch for mud, ice, and slippery paths.
• Keep them close – Always on lead and under control around food stalls and people.
• Know your dog – Shorter visits are better for dogs who find crowds or lights overstimulating.
• Avoid dangerous festive foods – Ensure your dog stays away from anything that contains raisins, chocolate, alcohol or other food known to be toxic to dogs.

Dog Friendly Christmas Events in Surrey

Inspired by The Snowman™, the Snowdogs at Hatchlands festive trail is all about our favourite four-legged friends! Wander the parkland spotting colourful Snowdogs, try the festive dog agility course, and stop by the courtyard café for a warm drink. Dogs are welcome outdoors and in the café on short leads, but only assistance dogs can enter the house or gardens.

Dog Friendly Christmas Events in Berkshire 

Wander through Windsor Illuminated’s twinkling woodland trail, complete with glowing fountains, firefly lights, and dog-friendly rest stops with treats, water, and photo ops.

For a more relaxed evening, explore Cookham Village Lights, then cosy up at a local dog-friendly pub.

Dog Friendly Christmas Events in Worcestershire

On select “Santa Paws” evenings at Winter Glow in Malvern, your dog can meet Father Christmas, get a gift, visit Mrs Claus’ bakery, and explore the dazzling light trail. Enjoy festive food, drinks, and dog-friendly photo spots. Dogs must stay on short leads and are not allowed on the ice rink or rides.

Dog Friendly Christmas Events in Hertfordshire 

Ashridge House Illuminated is a stunning light trail just outside London that welcomes dogs every Wednesday evening. Explore the glowing gardens together – just keep your pup close and on a short lead.

Dog Friendly Christmas Events in Kent

Hever Castle’s magical Christmas events will be themed around the Wizard of Oz this year. Take your own Toto along for a memorable walk in the grounds, during the day or for the twilight experience, as long as they’re kept on a lead at all times.

Betteshanger Country Park in Kent is bursting with dog-friendly sparkle over the festive season and will be offering a magical outdoor adventure the whole family will love. Wrap up warm and let the magic of the season guide you through Betteshanger’s beautiful landscapes.

Don’t miss Christmas at Bedgebury, where the illuminated forest transforms into a winter wonderland that welcomes dogs on leads

Knole Park’s Beatrix Potter Christmas Card Trail offers a wintery woodland wander with hidden festive surprises.

And at Reuthe’s Lost Gardens, the Santa Paws Grotto will be open on 29 & 30 November. This event is designed especially for dogs – Santa’s gifts and greetings are for four-legged friends!

Dog Friendly Christmas Events in Brighton & The South Coast

Well-behaved dogs can join the illuminated stroll through Leonardslee Gardens, visit dog-friendly Brighton Christmas Markets, or simply enjoy a twinkly seafront walk for a coastal glow-up your pup will love.

Dog Friendly Christmas Events in Manchester

Manchester Christmas Market is one of the UK’s most dog-friendly festive fairs (avoid peak times for calmer sniffs!).

Don’t forget your festive checklist:

✔ Lead & harness
✔ Water bowl
✔ Treats & poo bags
✔ Festive dog coat or jumper
✔ Reflective collar
✔ Camera for those twinkly photos!

We’d love to see your pups getting into the Christmas spirit! Tag us at @brucesdoggydaycare to share your festive doggy snaps.

Know a great local dog-friendly event near your Bruce’s centre? Let your local team know and we’ll be sure to include it in next year’s guide!

Wishing our whole Bruce’s family – two-legged and four-legged alike – a tail-wagging, treat-filled Christmas!