Oxfordshire is full of green spaces that offer a variety of scenic spots to exercise your pooch. But remember, dogs can tire on long walks so make sure they have a large dog bed to crash in when they get home. Here are four Oxfordshire areas where your dog can burn off excess energy.
Blenheim Palace
The 2,000 acres of beautiful Blenheim Palace parkland provide dogs with room to roam. However, due to wildlife and livestock, dogs need to be kept on leads. Use the plentiful dog waste bins to clean up after your dog. There are dog water bowls available and even the ice cream stands serve doggy ice cream! It is possible to walk your dog without paying if you don’t wish to access the palace or visit the formal gardens. You can enjoy the magnificent views and lake for free by using footpaths to enter the park. There’s a 4.6-mile route that will take you around the palace’s perimeter.
University Parks
In the centre of Oxford, your dog can enjoy the University Parks, 70 acres of beautiful parkland with several different walking routes. Well-behaved dogs and owners are welcome as long as your dog is under control and any mess is cleaned up. There is a riverside walk where you can stroll along the River Cherwell. The North Walk is a lovely route where you can view trees planted in the late 1800s. The once-endangered Dawn Redwood tree thrives along this walk. While you’re there, why not also enjoy a picnic on a sunny day to relax and enjoy the scenery?
Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park
Located in the north of the city, this is Oxford’s largest park. The 42 hectares of land have a Green Flag Award which recognises well-managed parks and green spaces. Between April and October, you can even see hot air balloons take off from the park. Dogs can be walked in certain areas but must be on a leash. But the park offers plenty aside from the community woodlands where you can walk your dog. Any kids who need alternative activities can enjoy skateboarding, a miniature railway, tennis, a paddling pool, mini golf, play areas and much more.
Shotover Country Park
The 117-hectare Shotover Country Park is situated on the eastern fringes of Oxford and enjoys spectacular views across the south of the county. The park is open free all year round, and several dog trails range from 30 minutes to two hours. This is a lovely spot and, on your walk, you will pass through ancient woods, flowery meadows, heaths, marshes, ponds and slopes covered in bracken. in spring and summer, Shot over’s woods are carpeted with wildflowers such as bluebells. Described by Oxfordshire council as a “hillside of hidden valleys, sudden views and varied habitats”, the park gives you and your dog a precious slice of countryside without having to venture there.
