Dogs are now welcome at Torrington’s RHS Rosemoor on set week days

Dogs will now be welcome at RHS Garden Rosemoor in Torrington on set week days following a year-long trial period.

The three dedicated dog-friendly days at Rosemoor are Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, with the rest of the week and weekends remaining dog free.

Rosemoor has become the first RHS garden to permanently allow dogs on site on selected days, with the recent trial period allowing owners and their pets access to certain parts of the garden, as well as creating dog-friendly trails.

READ MORE: Attraction extends dog-friendly trial scheme for another six months

Dogs must be kept on short, fixed leads but visitors with dogs can now explore the paths through the beautiful Formal Gardens, Stream Field, Lakeside, Lady Anne’s garden, arboretums and woodlands. Lawns are for humans only, except in the Stream Field where dog walkers need to be able to access the benches.

Children’s play areas and the restaurant, Learning Centre, Orchard, Cottage, Potager and Fruit and Vegetable Gardens remain dog-free, but pet owners can eat at allocated outdoor tables on the restaurant terrace and the seating inside and outside the Otter Café.

The new permanent set up comes into force on March 26 and is based on the trial period, which also allowed dogs Monday to Wednesday and was in response to direct requests from visitors as well as ‘above average’ dog ownership in Devon and the South West.

RHS Rosemoor said the trial had proved successful and saw high levels of participation and a growth in new visitor numbers.

Emma Thompson, head of site at RHS Garden Rosemoor said: “We’ve received many positive comments from visitors who have only been able to visit the gardens because of the trial access or whose visits have been able to span a much longer period where they were previously restricted due to travel times and aging pets.

“It is wonderful to welcome them all, as well as our regular visitors, to enjoy the beauty of spring together.

“We understand that whilst some people love dogs, others really value visiting a garden they know is pet-free. Allowing dogs in on three designated days-per-week and to specified areas of the garden provides a balanced approach so that all visitors can enjoy our gardens in peace.

“Given we have 65 acres to explore, we are confident that we have plenty of space to provide an enjoyable experience for all.” 

Dogs must be kept under full control during their visits and be on fixed short leads. You can find out more about visiting RHS Rosemoor with your dog at https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor/plan-your-visit/dogs

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