Thousands expected as Swindon’s “Big Bark” dog festival takes over Lydiard Park

The Big Bark, a fast-growing festival dedicated to dogs and the people who love them, is set to transform the historic parkland into a lively, tail wagging celebration of everything our four-legged friends love.

And judging by early interest, it’s already shaping up to be a big one.

Designed as a full day experience (and not just another wander around a show ring), The Big Bark is all about letting dogs actually have some fun with their humans in tow.

Visitors can expect a packed programme, including fun dog shows with prizes, have-a-go agility courses, interactive games and challenges and live training demonstrations from experienced handlers. There will also be a wide range of dog-focused stalls, from treats and toys to expert advice on behaviour, care and wellbeing.

And it’s not just the dogs being looked after.

With street food vendors, retail stalls and plenty of space to relax, the event has been designed as a full day out for families, couples and groups of friends, whether they have one dog, three dogs or just like to meet new pooches.

Organisers say one of the biggest reasons people should take notice is just how local it is.

Jo MacAskie, event organiser for The Big Bark, said: “Anyone living within about 45 minutes of Lydiard Park is genuinely very lucky to have an event like this on their doorstep. Many dog festivals of this scale involve long journeys, early starts and a lot of planning whereas this one is quite literally a “lead on, out the door and you’re there” kind of day.

“We know people often travel a long way for events like this, so to have it right here in Swindon is something really special. If you live locally, it is such an easy win. You can give your dog an amazing day out without the stress of travelling.

“It is all about letting dogs enjoy themselves. Running, playing, exploring, meeting other dogs… it’s basically their perfect day. And if the dogs are happy, everyone else tends to be too.”

With the event now just weeks away, organisers say ticket demand is expected to increase quickly, especially if the weather behaves.

Jo added: “Ticket sales always pick up in the final days, and we are already seeing strong interest locally. We would definitely recommend booking ahead, nobody wants to be explaining to their dog why they’re not going.”

Ian Surtees, Business Development Manager at Swindon Borough Council which owns and operates Lydiard Park, said: “The Big Bark is set to be a fantastic event for everyone. We’re really lucky to have such a versatile venue as Lydiard Park and this year our calendar is making great use of it.

“We can’t wait to see all the wagging tails in a couple of weeks and hopefully some visitors may even choose to make Lydiard their newest dog-walking spot.”

The Big Bark is expected to attract visitors from across Swindon, Royal Wootton Bassett, Purton and surrounding areas, with many already planning to turn it into a full day out. The event is also attracting people from much further away supporting the local economy.

Tickets are available now from Lydiard Park website with availability expected to reduce each day.