Let’s face it, living with dogs in London is not easy. Back gardens are a luxury, and courtyards are more often home to our Bicycles, and the Webber BBQ that is used maybe once year. Our dog’s love getting out of the house, but sometimes the usual loop around the block just isn’t enough. Even if they got to hit all their favourite pee spots. The Purplebone team have pulled together their favourites to create a list of the best parks in London to walk your dog.
Richmond Park at almost 1000 hectares, is the largest Royal Park in London with plenty of space for your dog to stretch their legs and play. Home to around 650 free roaming deer; the natural landscape of hills, woodlands, ponds, gardens and grasslands set amongst ancient trees offers beautiful scenery to visitors. The Park is designated as a National Nature Reserve (NNR), a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the Pembroke Lodge and Gardens, and that they must be on a lead in Isabella Plantation.
Deer advice for Dog Walkers in Richmond Park.
Nearest Tube: Richmond Station
With one of the most scenic views of all of London atop Parliament Hill at the summit of Hampstead Heath; this wildlife friendly park gives your dog a taste of the great countryside right on the cities doorstep. Spanning 320 hectares, your dog has plenty of open space to let their hair down, play and socialise with other dogs and even take a dip in the doggy dedicated swimming pond.
Nearest Tube: Golders Green or Kentish Town
Situated alongside the River Thames this 90 hectares’ park boasts lakes, woodland, nature spots and tons of open space for your dog to socialize and play. With a dog friendly open air cafe and historic memorial of The Brown Dog affair, it’s an ideal location to take your dog in the heart of the city. Did we mention our Chelsea store is situated on Kings Road just across the river? Don’t be scared to pop in an say Hi!
Nearest Tube: Battersea Park (National Rail)
A haven for dogs located in the North-East of London, Stoke Newington is a great option for for dog owners as it boasts multiple parks for your dog to enjoy. Clissold Park; a portal into the rural past. Apart from a few dog free zones, such as the children’s play areas and animal enclosures, your dog can roam free and enjoy this scenic park. Alternatively, nestling in the shadows of Clissold Park is Abney Park, has now converted into a woodland memorial park and a beautiful park to walk your dog.
This is a firm favourite amongst the Purplebone Office Pups! Probably the busiest and most famous park in London, Hyde Park and its 142 Hectares welcomes all dogs with open arms. You can treat your pup to a stroll around the many famous landmarks, that dazzle tourists and locals alike – including the Serpentine Lake, Speakers Corner and the Princess Diana of Wales Memorial Fountain.
There are some areas that your pup will need to be on their lead, they are all clearly indicated within the park.
Nearest Tube: Queensway, Lancaster Gate, Marble Arch and Hyde Park Corner.
A very dog friendly park between St Johns Wood and Notting Hill. Your dog is allowed off their leads in main park, some of the wooded areas and of course the 3 doggy dedicated areas making it an amazing site to explore for your pet. Even the cafe has special section for dog owners and dogs to recharge after their walk!
Nearest Tube: Maida Vale or Kilburn Park