FROM PINTS TO PAWS: HOLTS BREWERY IS FIRST TO HOST CRUFTS-STYLE DOG SHOW
Joseph Holt Brewery is set to become the first in the country to host its own Crufts-style dog show.
Pet owners are being invited to showcase their four-legged friends at “Woofts”, a series of events taking place across a selection of pubs over the summer, owned by the Joseph Holt brewery and inspired by the world-famous Crufts dog show organised annually by the Kennel Club.
We’re very proud that our 127 pubs across the North West are well known for their dog-friendly venues.
“Our customers love bringing their dogs to our pubs,” says Pamela Gaffney, Operations Support Manager at Joseph Holt. “Especially in the summer, on long light evenings, when it’s lovely to enjoy a drink or something to eat in the beer garden. Joseph Holt pubs are already very much at the heart of the community, and the Woofts shows will be a lovely way of bringing people together – as well as giving their pets a chance to win prizes.”
Dogs taking part will be judged across a range of light-hearted classes, including Prettiest Female, Handsomest Male, Cutest Puppy, Loveliest Rescue, Best Dressed, and, of course, Best in Show.
The competitions will be held at The Richmond in Southport on May 16, The Millhouse in Warrington on June 20, The Roebuck in Alkington on July 25, and The Woodthorpe in Prestwich on August 15.
As well as giving owners the chance to proudly show off their dogs, the events are expected to attract visitors who may not have pets of their own but simply enjoy being around animals. Pamela also highlights that the initiative helps make dog shows more accessible compared with major events such as Crufts, where costs can quickly mount up when factoring in entry fees, travel and accommodation. Even spectator tickets for Crufts 2026 start from £22–£24 for adults, while entry to Woofts is just £2 per dog.
She added: “Our pubs are hugely popular with dog owners, as well as being true community hubs,” adds Pamela. “We’re sure that by leading the way with Woofts, many people will enjoy either showing their dogs or coming along to watch what promises to be a really fun event.”
Also featured in: