St Edmundsbury Cathedral is celebrating being a dog-friendly Cathedral once again with the launch of the 2027 Dogs in the Cathedral Calendar, the Cathedral’s third canine-themed calendar.

Fifteen local dogs were photographed for the calendar. Models include Chops the Brussels Griffon having a seat in the font, Endeavour the Shih Tzu taking his place on the Cathedral’s Godspeed sculpture and a trio of labs finding a home in the sedilia. The calendars were printed by local firm, Premier Printers.

The idea of a dogs in the cathedral calendar was born in 2024 and was a first in the UK, later inspiring other cathedrals to create their own. With Bury St Edmunds developing a reputation as being an incredibly dog-friendly town, the Cathedral is a space where four-legged friends are welcome.

Marketing and Communications Manager, Catherine Rayson, who created the calendar with photography by Tom Soper Photography, said, “The dog calendar photoshoots are the highlight of my working year. It’s so nice to welcome owners and their pets into the Cathedral and capture something a little different. It’s also nice to hear the shoppers have already been asking in the Cathedral shop when the 2027 version will be available.”

The calendar will be on sale in the Cathedral Shop.

The launch comes as Bury St Edmunds prepares to compete once again in the National DogFriendly Awards, which you can vote until 11 October. These awards recognise establishments that go above and beyond to welcome the UK’s 12.5 million dogs and their owners, promoting a supportive and inclusive environment.

Dogs have long been welcome at St Edmundsbury Cathedral, provided they remain on a lead. Some even attend services regularly. Visitors will also find a water bowl outside the Cathedral and a warm welcome inside, where pups can expect a treat at the welcome desk.