If, like our dogs, you love to explore, the UK is lucky enough to have many dog-friendly towns and cities to venture to. From sprawling countryside for long walks to dog-friendly bars and cafés.
Here are seven dog-friendly tourist attractions you can find in the Weald, located in Kent in the south-east.
The Spa Town of Royal Tunbridge Wells
Tunbridge Wells is full to the brim with picturesque parks and spaces to let your dog roam free. Dunorlan Park, Calverley Park and Grosvenor Park are a few of the delightful scenic parks with amenities.
Tunbridge Wells Common is an extensive open space adjacent to the Town Centre. With its wooded areas, open green spaces, the famous Wellington Rocks and spectacular panoramic views over the Weald, this is a haven for curious, energetic dogs and their owners alike! Or why not take a stroll down to the famous Pantiles where you will find lots of cafés to enjoy a coffee. The Pantiles Cafe and Framptons allow dogs inside so perfect if you are visiting on a cold or wet day. On days when trains are running you can take your dog on the Spa Valley Railway which offers travel between Tunbridge Wells West and Groombridge. You can hop on and off at different stations all day as fares include all day travel and dogs travel for free. The station is just five minutes’ walk from the Pantiles.
Scotney Castle in Lamberhurst
Scotney Castle is breathtakingly beautiful with a fascinating history dating back to the 14th century. Dogs are more than welcome within the garden and wider estate which is owned by the National Trust. Water bowls are provided and dogs must be kept on a short lead. Leads can be borrowed from the visitor reception. There are family trails inside the attraction and longer walks can be enjoyed around the Scotney Estate. The café is great for lunches, homemade cake and scones. Scotney Castle is situated just a few miles outside Tunbridge Wells in the nearby village of Lamberhurst, close to the A21.
Hole Park Gardens in Rolvenden
With its striking bluebells and standard wisteria, the gardens at Hole Park are perfect for garden lovers to visit with their dogs. 2019 is the first time dogs have been allowed into the gardens but they must however be kept on a short lead. Hole Park Gardens are closed for the winter but open daily from 30 March to 8 June and in summer on Wednesdays and Thursdays until the 31 October in addition to Sundays in October.
After your walk head for the Coach House Tearoom for a slice of delicious homemade cake or a cream tea.
Chiddingstone Castle in the National Trust Village of Chiddingstone
Dogs are also welcome at Chiddingstone Castle which is situated in the village of Chiddingstone, just a few miles from Edenbridge. With its far-reaching views, the grounds feature a lake and a Victorian orangery. The Tea Rooms are the perfect place to enjoy a light lunch, homemade cakes or why not book in for a full afternoon tea. Whilst dogs are not allowed in to the castle they are very welcome in the tea room courtyard or venture further using the surrounding footpaths and return for a cream tea?
Dogs MUST be kept on leads in the Castle grounds.
The Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden
The Kent and East Sussex Railway in Tenterden also allow well-behaved dogs to travel on normal operating days. Dogs can travel for just £3. Trains start off at Tenterden, travelling through the quintessentially English villages of Rolvenden, Wittersham, Bodiam and Northiam. Stop off at any of these destinations and explore what the Kent countryside has to offer with your dog! Water is available for dogs at all the stations.
Knole in Sevenoaks
Knole is the perfect park to explore with your pooch. Just a short walk away from Sevenoaks town centre, there’s over 1000 acres of parkland you can both enjoy.
If you’re new to the park, try one of the outdoor walks. The all-ability walk is perfect for dog-walkers with buggies, scooters or wheelchairs too.
Because of the nature of Knole’s parkland, there are just a few things to bear in mind when you’re heading out for a scamper:
Please keep your dog on a lead at all times. This is to protect the herd of wild deer who roam the parkland.
Please always pick up after your dog. The park is protected by SSSI status but there are a few dedicated dog bins. Dogs on leads are welcome in the Courtyards only. Assistance dogs are welcome indoors. The car park doesn’t have shaded areas, so on sunny days, please avoid leaving your dog in the car.
Biddenden Vineyards near the village of Biddenden
Full of local produce and award winning wines, ciders and apple juice, there’s no better way to truly get a feel of what Kent has to offer foodies. Dogs are also welcome on leads and self-guided tour are available which you can enjoy at your own pace while enjoying the wonderful scenery which surrounds the Vineyard. Finish your walk with a visit to the Vineyard shop, stocked full of local food and drink. The coffee shop offers light refreshments and locally produced home-made cake!
Discover the great value Seven Wonders of the Weald Tourist Pass, which for £30, gives you one free entry to each of the 7 Wonders of the Weald, so you can explore some of what Kent has to offer you, and you’re more than welcome to bring your dog along too!
To find out more about the Seven Wonders of the Weald and to see other travel itineraries please visit www.sevenwonders.org.uk
