Shepherd & Sheepdog Demonstration Experience – Lake District, Buttermere

Step into the world of a working sheepdog trainer and watch the journey behind the scenes — from keen youngsters learning the ropes to experienced dogs refining their craft.

Set on our traditional Lake District hill farm in the stunning Buttermere Valley, this immersive demonstration offers a rare opportunity to observe real sheepdog training in action, exactly as it happens day to day on a working fell farm.

During the experience, you’ll:

🐾 Watch young dogs learning foundational skills and confidence-building exercises
🐾 See older, more experienced dogs fine-tuning precision, control and teamwork
🐑 Learn how sheepdog training develops over time, from early stages through to advanced work
🎤 Hear explanations of techniques, decision-making and communication between dog and handler

To finish, enjoy a relaxed and entertaining mini sheepdog trial, where a couple of dogs work a short course and guest judges from the audience are invited to score their performance — a fun way to appreciate just how skilled these dogs really are.

Important to Know

This is a watch-only experience. Guests do not handle or work the dogs during the demonstration.
If you’re inspired to take part yourself, this experience is the perfect introduction before progressing to our hands-on Shepherd & Sheepdog Experience. Location: Cragg House Farm, Buttermere, Lake District National Park.

Ideal for: Families, groups & individuals - one ticket covers up to four people participating together.
Duration: Around 1 hour
Refreshments: Complimentary refreshments: a choice of tea, coffee, hot chocolate or cordial, served with biscuits. Just help yourself and enjoy the view.

Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying nearby, our Shepherd & Sheepdog Experience is one of the most authentic and memorable things to do in the Lake District — full of laughter, learning, and unforgettable moments with our four-legged team.

Whether you’re fascinated by working dogs, interested in training methods, or simply want to enjoy a truly authentic Lake District experience, our Sheepdog Training Demonstration offers a memorable insight into the partnership between shepherd, dog and sheep — calm, educational and deeply rooted in tradition.

✨ Many guests go on to book our Shepherd Experience after watching — this is where the curiosity begins.