Review: Barky Blinders, Birmingham

By Alice Hudson
Barky Blinders Pop Up Café was a heart warming afternoon full of fun for owners and their pups.
The event took place at The Queens Arms in the Jewellery Quarter – they had managed to utilise a fairly small space to their advantage, and although it was a bit of challenge for those with bigger dogs, it was ultimately very cosy!

We were greeted on the door, where an incredible Barky Blinders cake was displayed – made entirely of dog friendly treats! It was created by the incredible Pawesome Treat Dog Bakery, who has a stand inside the event selling handmade natural dog treats. They were affordable as well as beautiful, and they went down very well with the dogs. Lots of Christmas themed treats on offer such as gingerbread men and festive stars, and they even had a doggy doughnut wall – a massive party trend from this year!
After settling into the pub, with the chance to buy our own drinks at the bar, we were treated to a ‘Pupaccino’ brought round on trays. Each dog had their own cup with their name written on; a truly special and personal touch.

We spent some time upstairs admiring the ‘puppy corner’ that had been set up with tunnels and toys in a separate room. It was the perfect chance for those with younger dogs to socialise, and spend some time letting them cause havoc!
Before long it was time for another treat for the dogs – their own Christmas dinner. Again, each dog was given an individual bowl brimming with a festive feast, including pigs in blankets and greens. The organisers went out of their way to treat each dog specially, fussing them and getting to know them by chatting with their owners.
Our favourite part of the whole event was meeting Santa. In the garden of the Queen’s Arms was a ‘doggy grotto’ complete with fairy lights, a Barky Blinders sleigh, a dog dress up box, and Santa himself. We were joined there by a professional photographer as well as one of the organisers, who all helped to make the dogs feel comfortable.

The event was undoubtedly a great deal of fun for the dogs as well as the owners, and the perfect chance for socialisation. The attention to detail from the organisers was exceptional and the personal touches made it really special. Their commitment to dogs shone through the event, and it was a fabulous opportunity for them to get their name out.
Coming in 2020 will be the Barky Blinders Doggy Day Care, where Monday to Friday owners can leave their dogs in the best hands. Weekends will see them host ‘dog pawties’ where just as much fun as the pop up cafe can be expected! Keep your eyes out for Barky Blinders in the New Year – big things are coming.