The world's most celebrated dog show has officially announced its return, with tickets for Crufts 2026 now available for purchase.
Event Details and Ticket Information
Crufts 2026 will take place at Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre from Thursday, March 5, through to Sunday, March 8. Organised by The Kennel Club, this spectacular four-day event will welcome more than 20,000 dogs, highlighting world-class canine competition while celebrating the incredible diversity, talent and companionship that dogs bring to our lives.
Tickets became available for purchase on Wednesday, November 26, through the official ticketing platform AXS. Pricing has been set at £16 for children aged nine to 15 and concessions, while adult tickets start from £24. Entry remains completely free for children under eight years old.
New Features for 2026
This year's event introduces several exciting new elements. Hall 8 will serve as the new home for the Young Kennel Club (YKC) and will also host brand new dog grooming competitions, adding another dimension to the visitor experience.
In another first for the show, organisers are introducing more flexible ticket options. Visitors can now purchase a two-day weekday ticket valid for both Thursday and Friday, allowing more time to explore everything Crufts has to offer. For those wanting premium access, a fast-track arena seating ticket is available for either Friday or Saturday, which includes reserved seating in the main arena.
What Visitors Can Expect
The popular Discover Dogs zone returns, where visitors can meet and learn about more than 200 different breeds. This includes newly-recognised breeds on the Imported Breed Register such as the Hungarian Mudi, Icelandic Sheepdog and Pyrenean Mastiff.
Each day of the event builds towards the prestigious Sunday finale. The competition schedule is as follows:
- Thursday: Working and Pastoral groups
- Friday: Terrier and Hound groups
- Saturday: Utility and Toy groups
- Sunday: Gundog group and the Best in Show final
Catherine Guiver, head of events at The Kennel Club, expressed her excitement: "Crufts 2026 promises to be our biggest and most exciting show yet. With the new hall, dog grooming showcase and flexible ticket options, visitors can experience even more of what makes Crufts so special."
She added: "Whether you come to cheer on the champions, discover a new breed or simply celebrate your love of dogs, there's nowhere quite like Crufts."
