Big ones and small ones, fluffy ones and sleek ones…we’ve grown accustomed to seeing dogs of all shapes and sizes in the garden over the summer on #WagWednesday evenings, and we’ve been loving your pictures too. The season has come to an end, but it’s not long until November dog days begin again. And we’ve got some news to get those tails wagging…next year we’re extending our welcome to dog walkers throughout the year.
From 2018 dogs will be welcome all day, every day in autumn and winter (from beginning of October to the end of March) and on #WagWednesday evenings in spring and summer (from beginning of April to end of September.) So apart from Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day (when the garden is closed) there will be an opportunity to bring your dog to Bodnant every week of the year.
Earl and Poppy both enjoying the hydrangeas – proving to be a popular posing spot!
We know many dog owners love bringing their best friends and furry family members with them when they visit – in some cases, not being able to bring the pooch prevents people being able to visit. We do also appreciate that other visitors are not so comfortable around canines, or just prefer to enjoy the garden dog-free, frankly. So we’ve tried our best to develop a programme that will allow all of our visitors the time and space they’d like in Bodnant Garden.
Bobby just chilling on the Top Lawn
We first trialled dog entry in winter 2013 and have been tweaking the programme since, thanks to your feedback. Up to now we’ve had a March/April and September/October break in the programme – a ‘breathing space’ to review the impact of dogs on the garden and on visitors – and are now filling in the blanks. We’ll keep reviewing how it goes, so if you have any comments or suggestions keep letting us know.
As always we just have a few simple asks of our dog walkers – please use a short lead (not extendable ones) stick to the gravel and grass paths, and of course clean up after your dog (bags are provided in reception.) And keep sending those fabulous photos!
Freddy here (above) and Bailey (top picture) have become #WagWednesday regulars…and familiar faces on social media too. Thanks everyone for sharing your pictures 🙂
For more details about Bodnant Garden call 01492 650460, check out our website nationaltrust.org.uk/bodnant-garden or find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Bodnant Garden Blog 
It will be too late for us… Our old girl is unlikely to see 2018. She loves the gardens, but I think she has seen them for the last time… It is lovely for everyone else of course, but bittersweet for us.
Hi Lis, So sad to hear this (as one who has been there) Our girls and boys bring so much joy to our lives but their time with us is too short. Do you think you’ll make it back in November, or is she poorly? Sending very best wishes to you and your old girl – Fran (contact frances.llewellyn@nationaltrust.org.uk if there’s anything we can do to arrange a special visit)