Bringing your dog
We welcome your dogs to spend the day with you at Waddesdon
Bringing your dog at Christmas
At Christmas, dogs are allowed anywhere in the grounds (including the Christmas fair and Winter Light trail), with the exception of the main Aviary, Parterre and Woodland Playground.
Please see our doggy do’s and don’ts below.
Doggy dos and don’ts
As not all our visitors are dog-loving people and to help protect our beautiful surroundings we just ask that you adhere to our dos and don’ts for bringing your dog.
- please keep dogs on short leads at all times
- dogs are welcome anywhere in the grounds with the exception of the Aviary, Parterre and Woodland Playground
- use our dog map to see our dog friendly areas
- please note that the walk from the car park to the house is approximately 15-20 minutes in each direction, with an uphill section and following rain can be wet in places so please bring suitable footwear. (See below for full shuttle bus details)
- you can enjoy outdoor refreshment with your dog at the Stables courtyard, Manor Terrace and Manor Shop courtyard
- assistance dogs are welcome in the gardens and inside the Manor
- please clear up after your dog and use one of our bins. Please note that additional dog waste bins are being added around the main grounds, please ask at the Welcome Pavilion or use our dog map below for nearest locations
- please do not leave your dog tied up and unattended anywhere in the grounds
Dogs on the shuttle buses
Since November 2017, in line with many National Trust and other historic properties, we have amended our policy and dogs are now allowed within the main grounds of Waddesdon.
In advance of your visit, please note that all dogs (excluding assistance dogs) can be walked to and from the visitor car park. This walk is approximately 15-20 minutes in each direction, on a woodchip path, with an uphill section at the base of the hill.
From Wed 27 March 2019 we will be allowing dogs on the shuttle buses from the car park to the Manor. Please note the following:
- At busy times, when visitors may be standing in the bus aisle, we may ask you and your dog to wait for the next available bus.
- If your dog might react to other dogs or people in a contained environment, please can you walk your dog rather than use the bus, to prevent any avoidable interactions.
- Please take responsibility for your dog and consider whether using the bus, rather than walking, will be in your dog’s best interest.
- In the event of a dog displaying any signs of aggression before entering the bus or having boarded, we reserve the right to request that you use the walking path.
Thank you for your understanding and co-operation.
Dog-friendly walks
Garden walks
Wellie walk
30 minutes
Difficulty: 2 wellies
Buggy friendly, dog friendly
Starting point: The Stables
Look out for: Diamond Jubilee Wood, North Fountain, Lafite sculpture by Joana Vasconcelos
Winter garden walk
25 minutes
Difficulty: 2 wellies
Buggy friendly, dog friendly
Starting point: The Stables
Look out for: The Aviary, Cherry Trees, Hellebores, Tay bridge, Lafite sculpture by Joana Vasconcelos
Baron’s walk
30 minutes
Difficulty: 3 wellies
Dog friendly
Starting point: The Stables
Look out for: Terra degli Etruschi sculpture by Stephen Cox, Pulham Rock grottoes
Skylarks nesting in Diamond Jubilee Wood
Skylarks are ground-nesting birds, with a breeding season running from April to August. We would ask if you are walking in the wood during these months to please keep your dog on a lead.
Wider estate walks
Use our online navigation for the walks or download our walks map in advance.
Illustrated dog map
When you arrive you can also purchase an illustrated dog map with our walks for £2 at the Welcome Pavilion. This keepsake map has been designed by artist Debbie Ryder and highlights some of the key areas you can enjoy with your dog.
It is double-sided with a Mindfulness map on the reverse, designed by artist Bek Cruddace.
Enjoy a pawfect day at Waddesdon
Treat your dog to Poupon’s doggy bag.
Play together with their brand-new toy while you explore one of our five dog friendly routes, offer them a tasty treat as you relax in the grounds, and watch them enjoy their own sorbet as you eat your lunch. £5.90 per bag.
Buy yours in the Stables courtyard.
Dog friendly pit stops
Manor shop courtyard coffee bar
Bring your dog and grab a quick snack, freshly made baguette, slice of cake or a hot drink at our kiosk in the Manor Shop Courtyard.
Stables courtyard
Near the Woodland Playground, the Stables courtyard is informal and ideal for dog owners and families. A short walk from the Manor, with a food and drink kiosk and outdoor seating. Or grab a snack from the Treaterie.
Manor Restaurant terrace
Order food to go from the terrace. Sit outside, snuggled under blankets. Enjoy steaming hot chocolate, homemade hot pots and seasonal snacks.
The Five Arrows
Open all year round
If you would like to dine with your dog indoors, you’re very welcome to in the bar area of The Five Arrows. Dog treats and attention are always on the menu at the hotel, and you can even enjoy a stay with your four-legged friend.