As of November 2017, dogs are finally allowed in the grounds of Waddesdon Manor. Read on to find out more about taking your dog for a day at this beautiful National Trust property located just outside Oxfordshire.
Only 40 mins from Oxford, Waddesdon Manor is a mesmerising house with expansive grounds set in the style of a 16th century French château. It was built by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in 1874 to entertain and house his collection of fine art. From the gardens and grounds you and your four-legged friend can enjoy sweeping views of Oxfordshire, the Chilterns Hills, and the Vale of Aylesbury.
The property is managed by the Rothschild Foundation (charitable trust) on behalf of the National Trust, so National Trust members have free admission.
5 dog walks in Waddesdon grounds
Waddesdon have 5 walks perfect for taking in the stunning grounds of the manor with your dog. Wellies are advised for all of the walks. Follow the links below to go to the online navigation provided by Waddesdon Manor.
Wellie walk
30 minutes
Difficulty: 2
Starting point: The Stables
Look out for: Diamond Jubilee Wood, North Fountain, Lafitesculpture by Joana Vasconcelos
Winter garden walk
25 minutes
Difficulty: 2
Starting point: The Stables
Look out for: The Aviary, Cherry Trees, Hellebores, Tay bridge, Lafite sculpture by Joana Vasconcelos
Baron’s walk
30 minutes
Difficulty: 3
Starting point: The Stables
Look out for: Terra degli Etruschisculpture by Stephen Cox, Pulham Rock grottoes
Diamond Jubilee Wood walk
1 hour 30 minutes
Difficulty: 3
Starting point: Car Park
Look out for: Parterre winter bedding, the Dairy, Pulham Rock grottoes
Windmill Hill walk
1 hour
Difficulty: 5
Mainly on public footpaths and has some uphill sections
Starting point: Car Park
Look out for: Millennium Avenue, Windmill Hill, Flint House
If you are looking to refresh tired paws after your walks, dogs are welcome in The Stables Courtyard, near the Woodland Playground, and the Coffee bar at the kiosk in the Manor Shop Courtyard.
Photo credit: waddesdon.org.uk
From Waddesdon: Doggy dos and don’ts
- Keep dogs on short leads at all times
- Dogs are welcome anywhere in the grounds with the exception of the Aviary, Parterre and Woodland Playground
- Use the dog map to see the dog friendly areas
- Be aware that dogs are not allowed inside any building, shop, catering outlet or on the shuttle bus. Only assistance dogs will be allowed on the buses.
- Please note that the walk from the car park to the house is approximately 15-20 minutes in each direction, with an uphill section and following rain can be wet in places so please bring suitable footwear.
- Please clear up after your dog and use one of our bins. Please note that additional dog waste bins are being added around the main grounds, please ask at the Welcome Pavilion or use the dog map for nearest locations.
For more information on prices, opening times, and to find very helpful dog-friendly maps visit the Waddesdon Manor or National Trust websites.
Sources:
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/waddesdon-manor
https://waddesdon.org.uk/your-visit/plan-your-day/bringing-your-dog/
The Oxford Dog Blog 