Dog and Duck Day
Saturday 13 September, 11:00 - 16:00
National Museum of Rural Life
Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
About Dog and Duck Day
Join us for a fun-filled day at the National Museum of Rural Life.
See clever canines at work in displays from the Drakes of Hazard sheepdog and duck team and specialist dog trainers Mordor Gundogs, meet the Guide Dogs team, and enjoy craft activities, storytelling and a family trail.
Explore the programme
Most activities will run between 11:00 - 16:00. The museum is open 10:00 - 17:00.
All activities are subject to change. See programme information boards on the day for any updates and changes.
Please also note that assistance dogs only are allowed in the museum building and the event field. Pet dogs on leads are allowed on the paths around the site and at the farm and must not be left unattended at any time.
The day will include
Outdoor display: Drakes of Hazard
Time: 11:15 and 14:15
Location: Field behind the picnic area
See Mark Wylie and his cunning sheepdog join forces to herd tenacious Indian Runner Ducks through an obstacle course. Can you help them get the ducks to the end? Each display will last 20–30 minutes.
Outdoor display: Guide Dogs
Time: 12:15
Location: Field behind the picnic area
Join the team from the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association to see some of their dogs in action and learn how they support people living with vision impairment. Each display will last 20–30 minutes. Please note this activity is weather dependent.
Outdoor display: Mordor Gundogs
Time: 13:15 and 15:15
Watch as Mordor Gundogs demonstrate their dogs’ incredible skills and obedience, and see some of their puppies learn the ropes. Each display will last 20–30 minutes.
Craft activities
Time: 11:00–16:00
Location: Tools Gallery
Drop in and enjoy dog and duck themed craft activities with our Engagement team.
Meet Guide Dogs
Time: 11:00–16:00
Location: Learning Centre
Visit the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association stand to hear about the work they do, volunteering opportunities and maybe even meet some pups.
Storytelling
Time: 11:45, 13:45 and 14:45
Location: Theatre
How did dog become man’s best friend? And where did those ducklings swim off to? Join storyteller Joanne Marr for silly songs and waggy ‘tails’ you would be quackers to miss! Fun for all the family but especially good for those aged 0–8 years. Sign up near the ticket desk.
Family trail
Time: 10:00–17:00
Location: Sign up at ticket desk
Our sheepdog is trying to herd some ducks, but they’ve all gone missing! Can you help her find all the ducks hiding around the museum?
Accessibility and facilities
We want everyone who comes to our museums to enjoy their time with us and make the most of their visit.
Visit our accessibility page for general access information for the National Museum of Rural Life.
Supported by
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