Crufts Opening Times: Visiting Crufts 2026 – Dates, Tickets & Travel Tips

Crufts remains one of the world’s premier dog events, welcoming around 150,000 visitors each year to celebrate canine excellence. If you’re planning to attend Crufts 2025, careful preparation can help you maximise your experience, save money, and avoid last-minute stress.

This updated guide covers the most important details you need to know before visiting Crufts 2025, including where and when it's held, ticket prices, travel advice, and event tips. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning fan, our guide helps you navigate this popular four-day event with ease and confidence.

When and Where is Crufts 2025?

Crufts 2025 is scheduled for Thursday, 6th March through Sunday, 9th March 2025.
The event takes place at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham, England, a venue that has hosted Crufts since 1991 and offers excellent facilities and transportation links.

Getting to Crufts 2025: Best Travel Options

By train: The NEC is directly accessible via Birmingham International Station, which connects to main UK cities such as London, Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow. A covered walkway links the station to event halls for easy access.

By car: If driving, the NEC is easily reached via the M6, M40, and M42 motorways. Onsite parking is available but can be expensive (approximately £17.95 per day if paying onsite, less if pre-booked). Shuttle buses from parking areas to the event gates operate regularly. Traffic can be heavy during Crufts days, so plan extra travel time and consider advance parking booking.

By coach or bus: Several coach companies run special services to the NEC during Crufts, including National Express, convenient for visitors from further afield.

By air: Birmingham Airport is just a short train or taxi ride from the NEC via Birmingham International Station, ideal for international visitors.

Ticket Prices for Crufts 2025

Tickets vary depending on the day and purchase method:

• Advance adult tickets: £14 to £27, with weekday tickets generally cheaper than weekend passes.
• Door prices: Typically £17 to £29, higher than online purchases.
• Children under 8: Free entry.
• Children aged 9-15 and concessions: Around £15 with advance purchase.

Additional tickets are required for some popular events like Best in Show and obedience rings. These sell out quickly, so purchasing early is recommended. Always buy tickets from the official Crufts website to avoid scams and secure guaranteed entry.

Planning Your Day at Crufts

The NEC spans five large halls filled with over 20,000 participating dogs across numerous breeds and competitions. Visit the Discover Dogs area to meet over 200 breeds and chat with breeders, a highlight for many visitors. The show also hosts over 500 trade stands offering dog products, training advice, and demonstrations.

Opening times are generally from 8:15am to 6:30pm daily. Comfortable shoes and a well-planned itinerary will help you cover more ground and maximise enjoyment.

Additional Tips for a Successful Visit

• Buy your tickets online in advance to save money and guarantee entry, especially for special events.
• Plan accommodation and local transport early, as nearby hotels fill up quickly during Crufts.
• Keep an eye on the official website or social media for updates on event schedules and travel advisories.
• Only assistance dogs or those invited by the Kennel Club are allowed inside; regular pets cannot accompany visitors.

With advance planning, you can enjoy all that Crufts 2025 has to offer – from thrilling competitions to amazing dog displays and a bustling pet marketplace.

For more information, tickets, and the latest updates, visit the official Crufts website at https://crufts.org.uk/show-information/.