Spring and summer are the perfect seasons to get out and about with your dog at a dog-friendly event. You may enjoy a peaceful coastal walk or prefer joining in the fun at one of the many community events happening across Eastbourne, Hailsham, and surrounding East Sussex villages.
From dog shows and village fetes to live music and beachside markets, this part of the South Coast is packed with pet-friendly opportunities. So grab the lead, load up your treat pouch, and check out our top picks for dog-friendly events this season.
Local Dog-Friendly Events in Eastbourne & Hailsham
Goodwoof
📅 17-18 May 2025
📍 Goodwood Estate, Chicester
Goodwoof – Website »
Tickets are still available for this weekend’s annual dog festival. You can choose from a range of packages, many of which include all activities like the doggy lido, wellness stage, expert dog advice, tarot readings, and local produce stalls. If your dog is calm in crowds, it’s a fantastic experience with lots of new sights and smells.
Top tip: attend earlier in the day if your dog prefers a quieter atmosphere. Once you’ve purchased your tickets online you simply go to the entrance to pick them up on the day.
Dogstival (Hampshire)
📅 31 May–1 June 2025
📍 Broadlands Estate, Romsey, Hampshire
Dogstival – Website »
Roughly 1.5 hours from Eastbourne, Dogstival is one of the UK’s biggest dog festivals. It’s like Glastonbury – for dogs. Expect:
- K9 aquasports and diving pools
- “Doggy Disco” zones
- Breed meetups and wellbeing tents
- Shopping village with dog gear and gifts galore
It’s a longer journey, but well worth it for the sheer scale of the event and dog-centric programming.
Hailsham Summer Market
📅 6 July 2025
📍 Hailsham High Street
Wealden District Council – Events »
Hailsham’s seasonal markets are a fantastic way to support local businesses while enjoying a dog-friendly day out. This summer’s event includes:
- Artisan stalls and food vendors
- Family activities and live performances
- Pet-friendly traders (often with dog treat samples!)
Dogs are welcome on leads and there’s water available at many stalls.
Pevensey Village Fete & Dog Show
📅 27 July 2025
📍 Pevensey Recreation Ground, Pevensey
Pevensey Dog Show Page »
A charming, traditional village fete with plenty for both two- and four-legged visitors. Expect:
- Local craft and food stalls
- Live entertainment and games
- A fun dog show with categories like “Waggiest Tail” and “Best Rescue”
- Plenty of shade and space for your pup to relax
Bring a picnic blanket and stay for the afternoon as this one has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
East Sussex National Trail Walks
📍 Across East Sussex (self-guided)
Visit Eastbourne – Dog-Friendly Walks »
If your dog prefers sniffing over socialising, East Sussex is packed with stunning walking trails. Explore:
- The South Downs Way
- Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters cliffs
- Friston Forest (perfect on hot days with natural shade)
These trails are free, open year-round, and ideal for weekend exploration.
Supporting You & Your Pets
At Paw Pals Eastbourne & Hailsham, we know that every dog is different. Some love the noise and buzz of a crowd, while others would rather curl up at home and wait for the fun to pass.
Whether your dog is joining you at an event or staying behind, we’re here to make sure they’re looked after.
Our Services:
- One-to-One Dog Walks – No pack walking. We tailor walks to suit your dog’s pace, mood, and preferred environment.
- Cat Sitting & Small Pet Care – Off to a festival for the weekend? We’ll care for your cats and smaller animals at home, following their normal routines.
- Pet Sitting & Holiday Cover – Combine multiple visits or longer stays while you’re away – ensuring your pets get love, care, and enrichment every day.
With summer just around the corner, now’s the time to start planning some pet-friendly adventures. Whether you’re looking for a local dog show or a festival weekend a little further afield, Eastbourne and Hailsham have something to suit every kind of dog and dog owner.
And if your plans don’t include your pets? That’s where we step in. At Paw Pals, we offer dependable, compassionate care across East Sussex so you never have to choose between enjoying yourself and keeping your pets happy.