Welcome to Yorkshire
Inspiration • July 22nd, 2026
|Yorkshire's pug enthusiasts are in for a treat as Harewood House prepares to host the largest pug meet ever on Sunday, 2 August 2026. This exciting event is inspired by the renowned photographer Cecil Beaton, who was not only famous for his creative genius but also for his love of pugs, especially his beloved companion, Simba. The gathering promises to be a delightful day for both pugs and their owners, filled with fun activities and a chance to celebrate one of Britain’s most adored dog breeds.
Event Details
Set against the stunning backdrop of Harewood House, the event kicks off at 10.30 am with a mass gathering of pugs on the iconic steps of the estate. This is expected to create a “pawsome” photo opportunity for all attendees. Following the group photograph, pugs and their owners will embark on a ferry ride across to the beautiful Walled Garden, a journey that will be whimsically named Captain Pugwash for the day.
Every attending pug will be treated to a complimentary puppuccino from The Bothy, ensuring they have a tasty refreshment after their adventures. The day is designed to be a celebration of all things pug, and attendees can explore the beautiful grounds and gardens of Harewood for the remainder of the day.
What to Expect
Date: Sunday, 2 August 2026
10.30 am: Group photograph on the steps of Harewood House
11.00 am: Ferry crossing to the Walled Garden
Complimentary puppuccino for every attending pug
Access to Harewood's grounds and gardens throughout the day
Pollyanna Hall, the Head of Marketing and Audiences at Harewood House Trust, expressed her excitement about the event:
"Cecil Beaton was famous for his creativity, style and larger-than-life personality, but he was also incredibly fond of pugs. We wanted to celebrate that lesser-known side of his life by bringing together Yorkshire's pug community for a fun and memorable day at Harewood. We’re incredibly proud to be hosting Yorkshire’s biggest ever pug meet up.”
Additional Activities
The pug meet is part of Harewood House's summer programme, which also features a Spot Simba the Pug Trail designed for younger visitors. This engaging activity allows children to explore the house while searching for images of Simba, encouraging an interactive experience that combines fun with learning.
Whether pugs are seasoned socialites or prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, all furry friends are welcome to join in on this unique celebration. The event is an excellent opportunity for pug owners to connect with others who share their passion for this charming breed.
Important Information for Attendees
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, there are some important guidelines to follow:
Dogs must be kept on leads at all times.
Only assistance dogs are allowed inside Harewood House and the Terrace Café.
Owners are responsible for their dogs throughout the event.
Free entry is valid for one owner per pug; additional family members will need to purchase tickets.
Dogs, including pugs, are not permitted inside the house itself.
Harewood House, a Grade I listed historic home, is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. Built in 1759, it attracts around 250,000 visitors annually. The upcoming pug meet not only highlights the love for this endearing breed but also promotes the importance of community and connection among dog owners in Yorkshire.
For those interested in attending, tickets can be booked online through the Harewood House website. This event promises to be a memorable day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and, of course, plenty of adorable pugs. Don't miss the chance to be part of Yorkshire's biggest pug gathering!
