Hotels near the Crufts

Crufts is probably the greatest dog show on earth. More than 28,000 top pedigree canines compete at Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre. A celebration of the relationship between dogs and their owners, the programme again showcases the diverse roles dogs play in society.

The competition at Crufts is divided into working and pastoral breeds, terrier and hound, toy and utility and gundog categories. Then there is the grand finale - the Best in Show - which features the champion of champions. Supporting activities include hundreds of trade stands, exhibitions of art devoted to man's best friend, celebrity speakers and demonstrations of dog agility and obedience.

Crufts was the brainchild of founder Charles Cruft. After organising the promotion of the canine section of the Paris Exhibition in the 1880s, he organised the very first Crufts in the Royal Agricultural Hall, Islington, in 1891.