Pugs of Yorkshire Assemble for Giant Summer Gathering at Harewood House

About

Harewood House is calling on Yorkshire’s pug owners to take part in what is set to be the county’s largest-ever pug meet-up this summer.

Taking place on Sunday 2 August, the special event has been inspired by Cecil Beaton: Staging Icons, Harewood House‘s latest exhibition created in partnership with the National Portrait Gallery. While Beaton is celebrated for his influential photography and creative legacy, he was also known for his affection for pugs, particularly his beloved companion, Simba.

The event will bring together pugs and their owners for a day of canine-themed activities, scenic estate experiences and plenty of opportunities to socialise.

A Celebration of Yorkshire’s Pug Community

Pug owners attending the event will receive complimentary admission for one owner and their pug, with a programme of activities planned throughout the morning.

The day begins at 10.30am with a mass gathering on the iconic steps of Harewood House, where organisers hope to create Yorkshire’s biggest-ever pug group photograph.

Following the photograph, attendees will head to Harewood’s ferry service, which will be temporarily renamed Captain Pugwash for the occasion. The ferry will transport pugs and their owners across the lake to the estate’s Walled Garden.

Complimentary Puppuccinos and Estate Exploration

After arriving at the Walled Garden, every attending pug will receive a complimentary puppuccino from The Bothy.

Once refreshments have been enjoyed, visitors and their four-legged companions can spend the remainder of the day exploring Harewood’s grounds and gardens.

The event forms part of Harewood House’s wider summer programme, which also includes the family-friendly Spot Simba the Pug Trail, inspired by Cecil Beaton’s famous canine companion.

Inspired by Cecil Beaton and Simba

Pollyanna Hall, Head of Marketing and Audiences at Harewood House Trust, said:

“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.”

The event welcomes all pugs, whether they are experienced social butterflies or prefer a more relaxed day out.

Event Details

• Date: Sunday 2 August
• 10.30am: Group photograph on the steps of Harewood House
• 11.00am: Ferry crossing to the Walled Garden
• Complimentary puppuccino for every attending pug
• Access to Harewood’s grounds and gardens throughout the day

Important Information

• Dogs must remain on leads at all times.
• Only assistance dogs are permitted inside Harewood House and the Terrace Café.
• Owners remain responsible for their dogs throughout the event.
• Complimentary entry applies to one owner accompanying a pug.
• Additional family members will require a valid day ticket or membership.
• Dogs are not permitted inside Harewood House.

Book Tickets

Visitors wishing to attend Yorkshire’s biggest pug gathering can find further information and book tickets via Harewood House.