Dogs at Westonbirt Arboretum

A golden curly haired dog looking up with an open mouth surrounded by grass
Photo credit: Johnny Hathaway

We love dogs! 

But not everyone does... So we try our best to be accessible to all! The result means 2 thirds of the arboretum is dog friendly and 1 third is a dog free zone to allow children and adults who aren't dog-lovers to have a space free from worry.

Westonbirt's dog policy explains our commitment to keeping our tree collection, visitors, dogs and wildlife safe, as well as providing enjoyable and safe facilities for all our visitors and members. 

Our dog map outlines each area clearly. 

Download dog map

Confused about your visit? We hope the information below will help put you and your dogs mind at ease.

Dog information

a golden dog on a black lead on grass looking to the right

The Downs

Dogs allowed on leads

The Downs forms the central area of the whole arboretum. Dogs are welcome on a lead on the Downs, at the Welcome Building, Restaurant, shop and over the Treetop Walkway.

A beagle staring off camera to the right, wearing a cool jacket on the grass

Silk Wood

Dogs allowed off lead

On your left hand side as you enter is Silk Wood. Dogs are allowed off lead if under effective control and return when called. Several woodland animals that dogs may find...

Holford Ride Westonbirt

Old Arboretum

Dog free area

To be accessible to all visitors the Old Arboretum, which sits on the right hand side as you enter, is a dog free area (except assistance dogs).

The forest live stage at Westonbirt Arboretum

Dogs at events?

No dogs please

Our big events like Forest Live and Enchanted Christmas are not dog friendly. Only assistance dogs will be permitted.

A woman in a blue dress putting a dog poo bag in poo bin watched on by her black dog

Poo bags and bins

Available in Silk Wood

There are 8 poo bins with poo bags available in Silk Wood. These are on the visitor map and located at main cross sections - please hold onto your bags until you reach a bin.

A dog with a white snout and light brown head and ears drinks water from a steel bowl.

Water

Bowls available

Bowls for water are available from the Welcome Building, restaurant and central toilets by the Great Oak Hall.

A dark brown dog pants towards the camera. A high vis lead sits across the dogs shoulders.

Assistance dogs

Access all areas

Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the whole arboretum and at events.

A light brown dog licks a dog friendly ice cream tub

Doggy treats

Dog ice cream

Yes! Dog ice cream is available from our pantry by the Exploratree play area.