Sussex gardens to welcome dogs for first time

A botanic garden in Haywards Heath, West Sussex, is to open its doors to dogs for the first time on 27 February.

Wakehurst’s Kew Gardens, a 500-acre wild botanic garden with 10km worth of paths to explore, will allow dogs on site seven days a week. The garden will also offer a fenced area for dogs to run off-lead.

In addition, Wakehurst will provide facilities such as water bowls and dog waste bins, as well as complimentary biodegradable waste bags at the Visitor Centre in case visitors forget or run out. Dogs will also be welcome at the Seeds Cafe and the Stables Pantry, as well as the shop.

A Canine Code has been established for the gardens, which outlines the rules, such as there should only be up to two dogs per adult.

Jamie Osborne, Head of Visitor Experience and Commercial at Wakehurst, said: “We have listened to feedback from our members and visitors who have encouraged us to take this step, and hope that this allows many of them to enjoy the gardens more frequently.

“We also look forward to welcoming people who may not have had the chance to visit previously, who now have the freedom to explore the wonders of Wakehurst with their four-legged friends. We hope dog owners will come to view Wakehurst as one of their go-to destinations, a place where they’re not only enjoying the most spectacular plants from around the world, but also contributing to our increasingly important conservation work and helping to protect the natural world for future generations.”