Saltdean Lido is preparing for its 10th annual Dogtember festival, with four weekends of dog-friendly swimming sessions scheduled throughout September and October. The event, which has grown into a major regional attraction for pet owners across Sussex, serves as a primary fundraiser for the maintenance of the Grade II listed Art Deco site.
The 2026 season marks a decade of the festival, which allows dogs and their owners to use the heated outdoor pools before the facility closes for the winter. Organisers expect more than 16,000 attendees across the month-long programme.
For dog owners travelling from the Chichester area, the Lido is situated approximately 35 miles east along the A27. Practical information for the 2026 event has now been confirmed, including updated pricing.
Event dates and session times
The festival will take place on the following weekends in 2026:
- 12–13 September
- 19–20 September
- 26–27 September
- 3–4 October
Each session lasts for 90 minutes. While the majority of the day is open to all breeds, a “Quiet Session” is scheduled for 5pm daily, specifically designed for senior dogs, nervous pets, or those who may be overwhelmed by the busier periods.
Ticket prices and booking rules
Tickets for the 2026 festival are priced at £14.85 for both dog swim and human swim entries. For those who wish to attend without entering the water, spectator tickets are available for £6.40.
Strict safety regulations remain in place for the main 40-metre heated pool. Children under the age of 16 are not permitted in the main pool during dog sessions; however, younger visitors are allowed access to the dedicated splash pool area. All dogs must be supervised at all times while on the premises.
According to The Argus, the event is vital for the Saltdean Lido Trust, a registered charity that manages the site’s ongoing restoration and operational costs.
Travel and accessibility
Facilities on-site include a cafe and grassed areas for spectators. Owners are reminded that while the pool is heated, the event takes place outdoors and will proceed regardless of weather conditions unless safety concerns arise.
