In response to direct requests for access and above average levels of dog ownership in Devon and the Southwest, the trial monitored visitors with dogs and surveyed dog owners and non-dog owners, garden staff and RHS members for a period of 12 months. In that time the garden saw high levels of participation on designated dog-friendly days and a growth in new visitors from the local area.
The three dedicated dog-friendly days every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are balanced by four dog-free days for the remainder of the week, which include weekends, for those who prefer a pet-free experience.
Visitors with dogs on short, fixed leads can explore the paths through the beautiful Formal Gardens, Stream Field, Lakeside, Lady Anne’s garden, arboretums and woodlands. A strict ‘paws on paths’ policy, is promoted to ensure all visitors can enjoy the garden and to minimise any impact on the garden’s important plant collections.
Children’s play areas, the restaurant, Learning Centre, the Orchard, Cottage, Potager and Fruit and Vegetable Gardens remain dog-free to protect the edibles used to make the delicious dishes served on site. These meals can be enjoyed by pet owners at allocated outdoor tables on the Restaurant terrace and the seating inside and outside the Otter Café.
Emma Thompson, Head of Site at RHS Garden Rosemoor says:
“We’ve received many positive comments from visitors who have only been able to visit the gardens because of the trial access or whose visits have been able to span a much longer period where they were previously restricted due to travel times and aging pets. It is wonderful to welcome them all as well as our regular visitors to enjoy the beauty of spring together.”
Emma Continues:
“We understand that whilst some people love dogs, others really value visiting a garden they know is pet-free. Allowing dogs in on three designated days-per-week and to specified areas of the garden provides a balanced approach so that all visitors can enjoy our gardens in peace. Given we have 65 acres to explore, we are confident that we have plenty of space to provide an enjoyable experience for all.”
Reflecting high local demand and dog ownership in the area, RHS Garden Rosemoor is the only RHS garden that will permanently welcome dogs on three designated days per week and all dog owners must follow the ‘paws on paths’ policy keeping dogs under full control throughout their visits. Other RHS Gardens continue to run the popular
‘Walkies’ evening events, based on local demand.
To visit on dog-free or dog-friendly days at RHS Garden Rosemoor visit:
https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor/plan-your-visit/dogs
