Dogs

Dogs

Dogs are welcome at Moors Valley. Please use the information below to help you plan your visit.

In the busy areas of the Park and Forest dogs must be kept on a lead – this includes the car park, picnic areas, Play Trail, around Moors Lake, on the paths below the Go Ape Course and in and around the Visitor Centre.

In all other areas dogs may be allowed off the lead however they must be under close control, in sight of their owners and on the footpath at all times and respond to a call to return.

Please be considerate to other park users, especially children, cyclists and horse riders. Please be aware that horses may be encountered on the bridleway that runs through the centre of the Forest area and around the top of Moors Lake.

Visitor Centre and Restaurant

Dogs on leads are welcome inside the Visitor Centre and in the restaurant. There is a dog friendly seating area in the main restaurant area, picnic tables are also provided for restaurant customers on the patio behind the Visitor Centre and dogs on leads are welcome in this area; water bowls are provided.

Play Areas and Play Trail

Well-behaved dogs are welcome along the route of the Play Trail, including the Tree Top Trail, but must be on a lead at all times. Please do not allow your dogs to climb on the play equipment.

Dogs are not permitted in either of the Play Areas near the Visitor Centre. A dog park is provided at the entrance to the Junior Play Area. Click to find out more.

Dog Waste bins

Please come along prepared to clear up after your dog. 14 dog bins are located around the park and forest; these are marked on the walking trail map leaflets.

Dog Wash

Discover Moors Valley’s self service dog wash, conveniently located next to our Visitor Centre. This easy to use facility is ideal for washing your dog. The machine provides warm water, a range of shampoos and a two speed dryer – all at a low cost.

No more muddy paws – leaving your car and home clean and everyone ready to relax after your walkies. Click to find out more.

Water

Water bowls are provided in all dog parks and on the patio behind the Visitor Centre. There is a drinking water tap at the front of the Visitor Centre to fill water bowls.

We’re aware that it is popular amongst dog walkers to allow dogs to wander (or jump) into the river and lakes for a quick dip to cool off during a long walk. This is damaging banks and disturbing wildlife in some areas. There are two designated dog paddling areas at Crane Bridge and at the top of Crane Lake at the north of the park; please do not allow your dogs into other areas of the river, lakes or ponds. This dog paddling area is only for a quick dip and not for dogs to enter and then swim the length of the river. Thank you for your co-operation.

Railway

Small dogs are often allowed to sit on your lap on the train however the final decision rests with the train guard on duty on the day. Please contact the railway if you have any questions.

Go Ape

Dogs on leads are able to walk along footpaths beneath the majority of the Go Ape Tree Top Junior and Tree Top Adventure courses. Dogs cannot be left unattended at the Go Ape cabin and cannot be taken on a Forest Segway session.

Golf

Dogs are not permitted on the Golf Course.

Grazing

At certain times of the year cattle, sheep or horses are used to graze some areas of the Park and Forest. Dogs are not permitted in these areas. If you see a dog chasing livestock please report it to the Rangers.

Events

Unfortunately, dogs are usually not permitted to join in with Ranger-led events and activities, especially those which involve any kind of wildlife. Please contact the Rangers in advance if you would like to discuss a particular event.