The Best Places In Bristol To Walk Your Dog

If you’ve just got yourself a dog and you’re looking for places in Bristol to go for a nice walk, you’ll be pleased to know there are lots of options out there for you.

Getting a new dog can be a traumatic experience, for you and your new pet; there are lots of ways you can alleviate doggy stress, from playing calming music genres like folk, jazz, and pop all the way through to putting on calming TV shows. However, everyone knows that dogs need regular walks, so the next time you’re out in Bristol, here are some of the best places you can go to give your dog some much-needed exercise.

Brandon Hill Park

There aren’t many places in Bristol where you can really let your dog off its lead and let it run around, but Brandon Hill Park is definitely one of those places. You’ll find it not far from Bristol Cathedral and the O2 Academy, and it’s an excellent place to give your dog an intense workout if they’re an outdoorsy sort of animal. Even if you prefer your walks at a more sedate pace, Brandon Hill Park is a beautiful green space in the middle of a bustling city, so pick this option if you want somewhere a bit more peaceful.

Bristol Harbour

For more urban doggy explorers, Bristol Harbour is perfect. There’s a growing movement of people who swear by urban walking, not just for dogs but for people as well, and a walk around Bristol Harbour is one of the best ways to experience this phenomenon. You can take in the cafes, restaurants, and sights of people simply walking and enjoying life, and your dog will be stimulated by all the different sights, sounds, and smells there are to take in. This might not be one for dogs that are easily distracted, though.

Victoria Park

Situated near Bedminster station and not far from the Star and Dove is Victoria Park, a huge gated environment where your dog will be able to let loose and chase leaves to their heart’s content. There’s lots of grass here to enjoy, of course, and there are plenty of paths for you to trace out a walk that suits you. Bear in mind that Victoria Park isn’t just popular with dog walkers; you’ll also find lots of cyclists and runners here, so try to make sure that your dog isn’t interrupting anybody else’s routine.

Queen Square

Just like Brandon Hill Park, Queen Square is a little slice of heaven slap-bang in the middle of Bristol. Green spaces aren’t just good for humans; they’re also essential for dogs, because they improve dogs’ physical health, stimulate their mind, and reduce doggy anxiety and boredom, which can be serious problems. Queen Square isn’t huge, so you won’t be able to let your dog off the leash and let it run around, but it’s a very nice walk for a dog that’s happy to stay on their lead.

Leigh Woods

Out in West Bristol is Leigh Woods, a National Trust site that represents the largest plot of forest land you’re going to find in the city (or out of it, rather). Make sure to take a map with you, as the woodland is rather large and you might find yourself getting lost. This is canine heaven, though; as a huge forest without any man-made distractions, your dog can run and leap around to their heart’s content, no matter how physically spry they may or may not be. Leigh Woods is a perfect site if your dog needs some peace and quiet.

Castle Park

Technically, there is space in Castle Park to let your dog off their leash, but you might find that in doing so, they run afoul of cyclists or runners, so use your discretion if you decide to take this route. Castle Park is a beautiful spot where you can see the river easily, and it’s got plenty of city life on the other side, so no matter which you prefer, you’re well catered for here. With lots of winding pathways and beautiful greenery to look at, this is a great best-of-both-worlds dog walking option.

Netham Park

As you’re no doubt realising, Bristol has plenty of parks for you to take your canine friend to. Netham Park is in east Bristol, not far from Troopers Hill and St George Park (which is another good option). Both Netham Park and St George Park offer respite from Bristol’s busy city life, so if your dog is of a calmer disposition, they’re great options. For the full, comprehensive experience, though, why not walk your dog through the city to the park?

Oldbury Court Estate

This North Bristol location is perfect if you’ve got a big family and you want to take the dog out and make a day of it. You’ll find a playground here for the kids (and for you if you’re a child at heart!), as well as a cafe to keep you fueled during your walk. There’s a car park, too, so you don’t have to tire your dog out simply by coming here. With plenty of well-tended pathways and beautiful, tranquil walking routes, Oldbury Court Estate is a strong option if you’re looking for somewhere that’s more out of the way and less urban than many of central Bristol’s dog walking spots.