Together with their responsible owners, dogs can explore the sights and smells of Silk Wood off the lead.
Silk Wood covers two thirds of the arboretum and is a fantastic area to explore with your dog.
You won't miss out on spring or autumn colour either, as amongst many other species Silk Wood contains the stunning cherry collection and the National Japanese Maple Collection.
We ask that dogs be kept under control and on a lead around the car parks, shop and restaurant area and the Downs picnic area.
Please do make use of the dog litter bins. We also have bowls of water and an outside tap by both sets of toilets in the main visitor centre area to keep your dog hydrated.
Dog Free Zones
We request that the Old Arboretum is respected as a dog free zone - and there are good reasons for this. It's an area where families with small children go and the flat, broad paths appeal more to those using mobility scooters and parents with pushchairs, who may be more comfortable in an environment without dogs.
We also ask for dogs to be kept outside of Maples Restaurant, the Great Oak Hall, the Forest Shop and the toilets - yes, there have been occasions when dogs have been given a bath in the washbasins!
If you have any queries or comments regarding your visit, don't hesitate to speak to our staff or volunteers, or email: westonbirt@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
Events for dogs and dog owners
After several successful years, we have decided to replace the format of the Dog Days event with a broader offer for dogs and dog owners. We will continue to work with our dog owning visitors to develop quality trails and events for them to enjoy as well as everybody else.
We want our many visitors to come to Westonbirt with their dogs all year round, rather than just over the one weekend on which Dog Days took place. Therefore we will plan guided walks, dog-friendly events and other activities for future years. The focus will be on inclusivity rather than exclusivity for dogs.
