Goodwoof 2026: What Happened — and What to Expect in 2027

Goodwoof 2026 took place on 16–17 May at The Kennels, Goodwood Estate, Chichester. This page documents what was on at the 2026 event. For Goodwoof 2027, check goodwood.com/goodwoof — dates are typically announced 3–4 months in advance.

Goodwoof 2026 returned to the Goodwood Estate on 16 and 17 May 2026 for another celebration of dogs that has become a fixture in the UK calendar. Hundreds of dogs and their humans descended on the stunning grounds of The Kennels near Chichester for a weekend of competitions, activities, shopping and pure canine joy.

Adult tickets were from £32 (early bird), with children under 12 and dogs both entering free — making it one of the best-value dog-friendly days out in West Sussex. Every activity was included in the ticket price.

Here is a full guide to what was on, to help you plan for Goodwoof 2027.

What Is Goodwoof?

Goodwoof is Goodwood's annual dog festival, held at The Kennels on the 12,000-acre Goodwood Estate. The Kennels itself has proper canine pedigree: it was built in 1787 by celebrated architect James Wyatt to house the third Duke of Richmond's prized foxhounds. It was once described as one of the most luxurious dog houses in the world, and Goodwoof carries on that tradition of putting dogs first.

The event brings together world-class canine competitions, expert talks, have-a-go activities, wellness workshops, live music, a literary corner, premium shopping and some seriously good food. Think of it as a festival with a wagging tail.

Dates and Times

Goodwoof 2026 took place on Friday 16 and Saturday 17 May 2026.

• Car parks open: 07:45
• Event opens: 09:30
• Event closes: 17:00

The event is held at The Kennels, Kennel Hill, Goodwood, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0PJ.

Goodwoof 2026 Tickets and Prices

Early bird tickets offered over 20% off the standard gate price. Here is what was listed for the 2026 event (as a guide for 2027 pricing):

For Goodwoof 2027 tickets, check goodwood.com/goodwoof — early bird pricing typically goes on sale 3–4 months before the event.

What Was On at Goodwoof 2026

The Rescue Dog Parade

Each morning, the Duke of Richmond led hundreds of dogs and their owners on a walk from Goodwood House down to The Kennels to officially open the event. In 2026, rescue dogs took centre stage — a genuinely moving way to celebrate the dogs who got a second chance.

Have-a-Go Activities

The Have-a-Go area was one of the most popular parts of Goodwoof. Completely free (included in admission), no pre-booking needed, with experts on hand for activities including:

• Agility courses for all abilities
• Treibball (dogs herding giant balls)
• Flyball and other canine sports
• Field and trail demonstrations

Canine Competitions and Displays

World-class competitions featured top canine athletes, with events including DHL Fastest Dog sprints and CaniCross races. High-energy finals and plenty of audience participation throughout both days.

Barkitecture

One of Goodwoof's most creative features, Barkitecture is the annual exhibition and competition of cutting-edge kennel design. In 2026 it was spearheaded by Kevin McCloud MBE and the Duke of Richmond, with world-renowned architects creating show-stopping dog kennels. Think Grand Designs, but for dogs.

Canine Wellbeing

Talks and workshops from leading behavioural and veterinary experts covered nutrition, anxiety and training techniques — all included in the ticket price.

Jellycat at Goodwoof

Jellycat brought two brand-new exclusive arrivals that were only available at the 2026 event. At Goodwoof 2025, Jellycat created the one-of-a-kind Jellycat Dog Hotel experience, which became a must-visit. That year's guest of honour was Otto Sausage Dog, with actor Hugh Bonneville reading Otto the Loyal Long Dog at the Literary Corner. Queues formed early for the 2026 Jellycat stand too.

Literary Corner

The Literary Corner brought together authors, celebrities and dog lovers for readings and talks. Hugh Bonneville's appearance at Goodwoof 2025 was a highlight; the 2026 line-up continued that tradition.

Shopping and Food

A curated selection of dog-related retailers, artisan brands and the official Goodwoof merchandise collection. Food options across the site, with premium upgrades including a Fortnum & Mason Picnic (from £125) or the Fortnum & Mason Feast (from £195 with hamper). Live music ran throughout both days.

Getting there

Goodwoof is held at The Kennels on the Goodwood Estate, just north of Chichester.

• Address: Kennel Hill, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0PJ
• Parking: Free, no booking required. Follow the directional signage on the day.
• Shuttle: A complimentary Bark and Ride shuttle bus runs from the car park to the event. Dogs are welcome on board.
• Walking: It is a scenic 20-minute stroll from the car park if you prefer to stretch your legs (and your dog's).
• Accessible parking: Blue Badge forward parking is available within the car park, and an accessible minibus runs to the event entrance.

All parking is on grass, so wear appropriate footwear. Overnight parking and camping are not permitted.

By train: Chichester station is the nearest mainline station, roughly 4 miles from the event. You would need a taxi or a lift from there.

Tips for Goodwoof (Based on 2026)

1. Book early bird tickets as soon as they go on sale. The 2026 early bird price was £32 per adult — over 20% off the gate price. Early bird pricing typically closes 2–3 weeks before the event.
2. Bring water and a bowl. There are water stations around the site, but having your own means no queuing.
3. Pack sun protection. May in West Sussex can be gloriously sunny. A collapsible shade or parasol is worth its weight in gold for your dog.
4. Keep dogs on leads. All dogs must be on leads at all times throughout the event.
5. Arrive early for Jellycat. The exclusive launches draw crowds. In 2026 queues formed early — if Jellycat is on your must-do list, head there first.
6. Register for the rescue dog parade in advance. Spaces fill up, so do not leave it to the day.
7. Wear comfortable shoes. The site is spread across the estate grounds, and the car park is on grass.

Is Goodwoof Worth It?

In a word: yes. For £32 per adult (early bird in 2026), with free entry for children and dogs, and every activity included, Goodwoof is outstanding value. You could easily spend the full day exploring, trying activities, watching competitions and shopping. Add in the stunning Goodwood Estate setting and the sheer number of happy dogs, and it is hard to think of a better day out for dog lovers in the south of England.

If you are looking for more dog-friendly days out in West Sussex, we have a full guide. And for family-friendly options beyond the dog world, check out our guide to free things to do in West Sussex and South Downs family walks for post-Goodwoof adventures.

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Goodwoof 2026 took place on 16–17 May 2026 at The Kennels, Goodwood Estate, Chichester, PO18 0PJ. This page was written ahead of the event based on official Goodwood announcements. For Goodwoof 2027 dates and tickets, check goodwood.com/goodwoof — announcements typically land in early spring.