We highly recommend attending the Rydal Sheepdog trials if you’re visiting in August. This longstanding event offers an insight into Lake District farming heritage and promises a memorable day out for all the family.

What are the Rydal Sheepdog Trials?

The Rydal Sheepdog Trials are a celebration of working dogs and countryside skills, showcasing the close partnership between farmers and their dogs. Over the course of the day, hundreds of expertly trained dogs will compete in a variety of trials designed to test their agility, obedience and herding techniques.

Spectators can enjoy a range of displays and demonstrations from gun dogs, hounds, beagles and other working breeds. These include:

• Sheep herding trials – where skilled sheepdogs guide livestock through a challenging course
• Crook and stick competitions – showcase traditional shepherding tools
• Traditional hound trialing – highlights classic working methods

The event offers a rare opportunity to see working dogs in action and learn more about the agricultural traditions that have shaped the Lake District.

It takes place in Rydal Park on the outskirts of Ambleside.