Longshaw Sheep Dog Trials 2025

The Longshaw Sheep Dog Trials, set to take place on August 28-30 2025, is a highly anticipated event that brings together the finest sheepdogs and their handlers from across the UK and beyond. Celebrated as one of the oldest and most prestigious sheepdog trials in the country, the event is held annually in the picturesque Longshaw Estate, located in the Peak District, near Sheffield, England.

History of the Trials

The Longshaw Sheep Dog Trials date back to 1898 when they were first established to test and showcase the skills of shepherds and their dogs in herding sheep over challenging terrain. The event was initially created to encourage better training and handling practices and quickly grew in popularity, becoming a key competition in the farming community. Over the years, the trials have maintained their traditional charm while evolving to become an internationally recognized event, attracting competitors and spectators alike.

Highlights of the 2025 Event

• Competitions: The 2025 trials will feature several competitions, including traditional sheepdog trials where handlers must guide their dogs to manoeuvre a flock of sheep through a series of obstacles using only whistle and voice commands. 
• Food & Drink: Craft stalls, a great beer tent serving locally brewed beer and various food stalls.
• The Longshaw fell race: Held on the Saturday morning of the Sheepdog trials. Entries come from many miles away, and occasionally we have an international runner in the field, including the 2011 winner. The Fell Racecourse covers 5 miles of varied terrain over Burbage, Higger Tor, Over Owler Tor, Owler Tor, Lawrence Field & Longshaw Pastures, including woods, rocky paths and the occasional bog.
• Community Spirit and Heritage: The Longshaw Sheep Dog Trials continue to be a vibrant celebration of rural life, preserving a tradition that spans over a century. It remains a significant event for both competitors and the local community, highlighting the bond between humans and their working dogs, as well as the skill and dedication required in traditional shepherding.

With its scenic backdrop and deep-rooted history, the Longshaw Sheep Dog Trials 2025 promises to be an unforgettable event for all attendees, blending competition, heritage, and community spirit in a beautiful rural setting.