Last year's Christmas Trail in Wilmslow was just amazing, so we're doing it again for 2025!
Limited to just 6 places, this trail is a group trail for more experienced teams that covers around 1km per team, taking in the landmarks of Wilmslow all lit up and festive for Christmas — it's a great way to get into the spirit... finding 'lost' Santa!
Who is this for?
This is a rolling trail that takes in a variety of terrain, junctions and road crossings, so you should be a Team confident in handling these whilst trailing. Teams will be coached; however, this special trail is not suitable for beginners or new starters (ask if you are unsure about your Team's suitability).
Teams should be able to trail safely close to busy roads, be competent at road crossings during trailing, and be happy trailing in the dark!
All teams will be out for the full duration, so no additional dogs are allowed (there will be no one to ensure their welfare while the teams are out).
What’s included?
> A roughly 3-hour rolling trail touring Wilmslow town and locality with two qualified instructors
> A free drink at the end after we find Santa
> Lots of fun with a small group of like-minded trailing teams
What else?
>You will require appropriate outdoor all-weather clothing and suitable, sturdy footwear — the trail takes in both urban and rural environments
> A head torch will be useful for you to ensure safe footing, though not essential, as the instructors, Laurence and Sara, will have torches
> For your dog, you will need rewards (details will be provided) and your usual trailing equipment, including a comfortable harness, a long line, a lead, and a collar. You should carry water for your dog, so a small backpack is useful.
Where and when?
Wilmslow, Cheshire*
Sunday 21st December 2025
1600-1900
*The exact location will be confirmed to attendees by email a few days before the trail.
Places are limited, so book early.
Who are your trainers?
Sara Barnes is the founder of Hounds Haven and Laurence James is the founder of Dog Trailing, both are instructors qualified through The Canine School of Trailing run by leading reward-based behaviourists and trailers.
About Sara
Sara is a trailing instructor and she also runs a secure dog field in Glossop. She has 3 rescue dogs but it was her Cyprus hound cross Olive who first inspired Sara to try trailing. Olive has hip dysplasia and is very high energy, so trailing was perfect for her physical needs but also put to use her amazing nose. Sara was addicted! So much so that she also started trailing with her nervous Labrador, Ralph and has seen his confidence really improve as a result. Sara loves being a trailing instructor and being part of an owner and dog's trailing journey.
About Laurence
Laurence is a trailing instructor trained and qualified through the Canine School of Trailing, now operating independently. He trails his dog Samson and also competes in agility, coming away with a second place in agility at Crufts in the Novice ABC finals in 2025. Samson is a Bosnian street rescue; agility and trailing have been great ways to bond. Samson is a tricks champion too! Laurence loves to share his knowledge of trailing as it is such an incredible way to work with your dog.
If you have any questions or specific requirements, please get in touch.
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