Paws in the City
Saturday 2nd May | Free Event | Wakefield City Centre
Event Details
Date: Saturday 2nd May 2026
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Location: Wakefield City Centre, Northgate (outside Wakefield Cathedral)
Entry: Free to attend
Dog Show Entry: £2 per category (Pre-registration is advised, but you can also register on the day from 10:00am)
Paws in the City is coming to Wakefield!
Join us for a fantastic day celebrating dogs, community and all things pawsome, right in the heart of the city centre. Taking place on Northgate, just outside Wakefield Cathedral, this brand-new event – delivered in partnership with RSPCA Leeds, Wakefield & District Branch – will bring together dog lovers, local businesses and plenty of four-legged friends for a fun, welcoming day out.
With a packed dog show, activities and lots to explore across the city, it’s the perfect excuse to get out, get involved and enjoy everything Wakefield has to offer.
Bring your dog, bring your friends, and make a day of it in Wakefield city centre.
What to Expect
Paws in the City is more than just a dog show.
On the day, you can expect:
- A full schedule of fun dog show categories
- Charity stalls and activities
- A welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere
- Plenty of four-legged friends
And while you’re here, make the most of your visit by exploring Wakefield’s city centre. From dog-friendly cafés to local shops and places to relax, there’s plenty to discover throughout the day.
Category Schedule
- 11:00am – Dog That the Judge Wants to Take Home
- 11:20am – The Fluffiest Dog
- 11:40am – Best Junior Handler
- 12:00pm – Waggiest Tail
- 12:20pm – Most Handsome Fella
- 12:40pm – Prettiest Girl
- 1:00pm – Cutest Puppy (up to 12 months)
- 1:20pm – Golden Oldie (7 years +)
- 1:40pm – Most Appealing Eyes
- 2:00pm – Best Rescue Dog
- 2:20pm – Best Sausage Catcher
- 2:40pm – Best in Show
Please note: all timings are approximate and may vary on the day.
Enter Your Dog into the Show
Think your dog has what it takes?
Enter one (or more) of our fun-filled categories and be part of the action on the day.
Entry is just £2 per category, with all proceeds going directly to support the work of RSPCA Leeds, Wakefield & District Branch.
Pre-registration is recommended to help speed things up on the day.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Paws in the City is a great opportunity to showcase your business to a city centre audience and be part of a well-supported community event.
By getting involved, you’ll not only support the work of RSPCA Leeds, Wakefield & District Branch, but also position your business as part of a vibrant, dog-friendly Wakefield city centre.
Explore Dog-Friendly Wakefield
We’re working with local businesses across the city centre to highlight dog-friendly spots you can visit during the event.
Whether you’re looking for a coffee, a bite to eat or somewhere to relax with your dog, there will be plenty of options nearby.
A full interactive map of dog-friendly businesses will be available here soon.
In the meantime, explore more events and things to do here
Important Information
Dog Welfare
Designated welfare zones will be clearly marked throughout the event. Please make use of these spaces when needed.
Disclaimer
All dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. Owners are responsible for the behaviour of their dogs. The RSPCA Leeds, Wakefield & District Branch and Wakefield BID accept no liability for any injury, loss or damage caused by dogs attending the event.
Getting Here
By train:
It’s a 10-minute walk from Wakefield Westgate and a 13-minute walk from Wakefield Kirkgate.
By bus:
Only a 5-minute walk from Wakefield Bus Station
By car:
There are several car parks nearby, including Trinity Walk and Ridings Shopping Centre, both offering accessible parking.
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