Treat your four-legged companion to a tail-wagging day out as Exbury Gardens presents Devoted to Dogs Day on Sunday 9th August 2026! Hosted in partnership with The Family Dog Club, this fun-filled family event features free dog activities, rosettes for participating pups, and beautiful botanical garden trails to explore. Best of all, visitors bringing a dog receive a 20% discount on gardens admission for one person per dog!
Event Schedule & Opening Times
Devoted to Dogs Day takes place across the stunning 200-acre woodland estate on a Sunday in August:
- Event Date: Sunday 9th August 2026
- Gardens Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
- Dog Activities: Scheduled throughout the day in designated activity lawns
- Venue Location: Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway, Exbury, near Beaulieu, Southampton (SO45 1AZ)
Attractions & Event Highlights
A dog-centric celebration set within world-famous woodland gardens:
- The Family Dog Club Activities: Take part in free, fun dog activities led by experts from The Family Dog Club—don’t forget your dog training treats!
- Take Home a Rosette: Pups participating in the event activities will receive their very own celebratory rosette.
- 20% Admission Discount: Visitors bringing a dog receive 20% off gardens admission on 9th August 2026 (applicable to one person per dog).
- Dog-Friendly Woodland Trails: Miles of scenic, shaded woodland pathways, ponds, and river views to explore together on a short lead.
- Dog-Friendly Amenities: Water bowls located across the gardens, outdoor seating at Mr Eddy’s Restaurant, and dog-friendly steam train rides (small extra charge for train).
Ticket Types & Discounted Entry
Entry is included with standard garden admission or membership, with special discounts available on the day:
- Exbury Members: FREE entry
- Visitors with Dogs: 20% off standard Gardens Admission for one adult per dog on 9th August 2026
- Standard Garden Entry (Without Discount): Standard seasonal rates apply for additional party members
- Steam Railway Rides: £7.50 per person (Dogs ride free!)
How to Get to Exbury Gardens
Exbury Gardens is located in the southeastern corner of the New Forest National Park:
- By Car: From the M27, exit at Junction 2 and follow the A326 towards Dibden Purlieu, then follow the brown tourist signs for Exbury Gardens (SO45 1AZ).
- By Train: Southampton Central or Brockenhurst stations are the closest major railway hubs (taxis required for the remainder of the trip).
- By Bus/Ferry: During summer, the New Forest Tour bus (Green Route) serves Exbury Gardens, or take the Hythe Ferry from Southampton to Hythe and catch a local bus/taxi.
Parking Information
Parking options at Exbury Gardens:
- Main Visitor Car Park: FREE parking available on-site directly adjacent to the main Visitor Entrance.
- Accessible Parking: Designated accessible parking spaces located close to the entrance for Blue Badge holders.
- Shaded Areas: Shaded tree-lined parking spots available, though visitors are urged never to leave pets inside parked cars.
Discover More Local Events
Looking for more exciting things to do across the region? Check out our complete list of What’s On in Southampton to discover the latest outdoor festivals, family activities, dog-friendly events, and seasonal gatherings near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is Devoted to Dogs Day taking place?
- The event takes place on Sunday 9th August 2026 during normal garden opening hours (10:00 AM – 5:30 PM).
- Where is Exbury Gardens located?
- Exbury Gardens is located in Exbury, near Beaulieu, Southampton (SO45 1AZ).
- How do I get the 20% admission discount?
- Visitors who bring a dog to Exbury Gardens on 9th August 2026 receive a 20% discount on gardens admission for one person per dog.
- Is there an extra fee for the dog activities?
- No, all dog activities hosted by The Family Dog Club are free and included with gardens admission or membership.
- Do dogs get a reward for taking part?
- Yes, participating dogs get to take home a special rosette.
- What should I bring for my dog?
- Be sure to bring dog training treats for the activities, plenty of waste bags, and keep your dog on a short lead at all times.
- Can dogs ride on the Exbury Steam Railway?
- Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome to ride the train free of charge alongside paying owners.
- Are Exbury Members eligible for free entry?
- Yes, event activities are fully included with Exbury Gardens membership.
- Is parking free at Exbury Gardens?
- Yes, on-site parking is free for all visitors.
- What are the main rules for bringing a dog to Exbury?
- Dogs must be kept on a short lead at all times, cleaned up after immediately, and never left unattended in vehicles.