Tail-Wagging Success at the Annual Rutland Pet Festival in Oakham

The grounds of Oakham Castle came alive with paws, claws, and scales on Sunday, 18th October 2026, as pet lovers gathered for the popular annual Rutland Pet Festival, organised by Carolyn Acton Events.

The well-attended community event brought together families, local animal lovers, and an incredible array of charming pets. 

 

Visitors spent the crisp autumn day exploring a variety of vibrant stalls set up both in the castle grounds and inside the castle walls.

Highlighting the diversity of Rutland’s loved animal companions, visitors entered an impressive 120 pets into the day's fun competition classes. 

 

While dogs were well-represented, the visitors were delighted to see an array of exotic and small animals taking part, including a ferret, rabbits, guinea pigs, and even a snake.

Oakham Mayor, Cllr Martin Brookes, joined in the festivities and took on the delightful yet difficult task of judging many of the fun categories throughout the day.

"Well done to everyone who brought a well-behaved pet along, and huge congratulations to all the winners of the fun classes!" said event organiser Carolyn Acton.

Competition was friendly but fierce across all categories. 

 

The full list of 2026 champions includes:

 

Category Winner

Prettiest Female Rosie

Most Handsome Male Monty

Best Rescue Winnie

Cutest Pet (No Dogs) Dolly (Guinea Pig)

Fancy Dress Taeru

Best Trick Billie

​

An event of this scale relies on the generous backing of local businesses and sponsors.

​

A massive THANK YOU goes out to headline sponsor Rutland & Kings Veterinary Centre - Oakham for their essential support in making the day possible, as well as Tails 'n' Whiskers, who generously donated gift vouchers for all the class winners.

​

With such a fantastic turnout and memorable moments, animal lovers across Rutland are already looking forward to next year's celebration.

​

Oakham & Rutland Events, organised by Carolyn Acton Events