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Dog on lead on downland at Durlston

Durlston with your Dog

We welcome well-behaved dogs and their owners to Durlston.  However whether it is for a short or long walk, a visit to the cafe or to the Castle, the visitor centre or gallery, we do require dogs to be under proper control throughout their visit.

As Durlston is a Country Park and National Nature Reserve, we ask that:

  • You clear up after your dog - where ever it may poo - and the waste is disposed of in a bin (there are 7 bins at Durlston) or taken away with you.
  • You keep your dog on the paths, either on a lead on under very close and effective control.
  • Your dog is on a short lead when inside or in the Castle garden.

Dog water bowl

Doggy Facilities

Dog water bowls outside Durlston Castle and the Learning Centre 

Dogs welcome in the Castle & cafe

Dog treats and ice cream sold in the shop

Dog bags available in case you have forgotten (or used) yours

Dog bins (7) are provided around for the dog waste

Lots of wonderful walks on paths  around small mostly enclosed fields

Child on rope swing on woodland trail

Walking Your Dog  

Durlston is a wonderful place to walk your dog, all around you the National Nature Reserve is full of wildlife including birds, mammals and insects.

These animals live here, some are quite rare, but they do not like being chased or disturbed -  so make sure your dog is under close and effective control. 

Your Dog should be on the path not dashing amongst the wildflowers.  If it doesn't come back immediately when called it must be on a lead.  The dog must be close to you and not the other side of the field.

Durlston is on an unfenced clifftop, so make sure your dog is close and on the path.

In the woodland we have an activity trail enjoyed by everyone but especially children - no one wants to tread in or land in poo - so pick it up.

Dog on stile

Taking your dog around the meadows -

Skylarks nest on the ground in the fields, their tiny eggs and chicks easily disturbed or injured by an exploring dog.

Please pick up your dog's poo, and dispose of in the bins or take it home with you

Cow in field

Gorgeous views from the top of the hills, where Roe Deer and Rabbits are often found browsing - they don't need your dog to exercise them.

Cattle can be grazing in any of the fields and electric fences may be present

Please pick up your dog's poo, and dispose of in the bins or take it home with you - dog poo can kill cattle

 

Roe Deer in meadow

Remember:

  • Durlston is a National Nature Reserve (recognised for its national importance to wildlife - 1 of only 219 such special places in the Country)
  • Durlston is a clifftop location (unfenced)
  • Cattle can be grazing in any of the fields and electric fences may be present

So keep your dog to the paths, either on a lead or under VERY close control