Visiting Lanhydrock with your dog

• Why are you running this trial?

  We are increasingly hearing from our supporters that they would like to take their dogs into more National Trust places, and we are exploring where this might be possible.

• How will you decide if the trial is a success / will dog access continue after the trial?

  We will be evaluating the success of the trial in a number of ways including visitor feedback, visitor numbers and repeat visits. We will also be gathering feedback from our staff and volunteers. We will use this data to inform what future dog access will look like at each place.

• What if I/my family are scared/allergic to dogs, or want a dog-free visit?

  We are asking that all dogs are kept on short leads and on the paths. We have also carefully thought about where we are allowing dogs. At Lanhydrock, the Herbaceous Circle, the garden before 2pm, shops and house are dog-free except for assistance dogs. If you would like to avoid dogs, you can search for dog-free places on the National Trust website (excluding assistance dogs).

• How will you be managing dog poo?

  Dog poo bins will be installed at trial sites and we are asking all owners to bring plenty of poo bags and to pick up after their dogs. There are 9 dog poo bins located on site.

• What type of leads will be allowed?

  Visitors will be asked to keep their dogs on a short, fixed length lead. We will have a stock of leads (under 1m in length) available at Visitor Reception if people need to swap.

• Why are dogs not allowed in the garden over winter?

  Lanhydrock House and Gardens are closed between November – February. The gardens cannot be accessed during this time to allow our garden team to safely conduct winter maintenance and essential tasks.

• How do I give feedback on the trial?

  We’d love to hear from you about the trial whether you are a dog owner or not. You can give feedback via our visitor survey online, comment cards on site, or by emailing us on lanhydrock@nationaltrust.org.uk Your feedback is important to us and will help inform the decision whether Lanhydrock should be dog-friendly or dog-free going forward.

Frequently asked questions

• Can I bring my dog into the cafe?

  Well-behaved dogs are welcome inside the the Park Café and Stables Café. Here, you'll find drinking bowls and dog biscuits (for a donation) to keep your pet happy.

  So that everyone can enjoy the Park Cafe, we ask that all dog owners ensure that their furry friends:

  • Are kept on their lead
  • Keep 4 paws on the floor
  • Sit safely under the table
  • Feed and water outside
  • We know it's fun to bark, but please bark outside

• What facilities are there for dogs at Lanhydrock?

  To help keep Lanhydrock looking lovely, there are bins for dog waste. These are located in the places that are popular with dog walkers around the estate, such as near reception, the car park and the entrance to the house courtyard. Pick up a map card from our outlets.

  Dog water bowls are located outside the Park Café, the reception building and in the Stables courtyard. Please check the current opening times on the main homepage.

• What should I do if I meet livestock with my dog at Lanhydrock?

  Cattle

  Cattle return to the parkland at the beginning of April and are removed at the end of October. Temporary electric fences will be in place when cattle are present, to offer visitors a cattle-free path towards the house and gardens.

  The countryside is still accessible through the designated entrance ways. All fences will be signed, and we ask that all dogs remain on leads when close to the fences and cattle.

  Cattle are inquisitive creatures and may come over to have a look and a sniff. If they do this and are showing signs of heightened interest in you or your dog, then it's advised that you let your dog off the lead.

  As soon as the cattle lose interest, which they will, immediately call your dog back and put it on the lead again.

  Sheep

  Sheep are in the parkland in early November and be removed at the end of December. When sheep are in the parkland, please keep dogs on leads at all times.

• What is your pawprint rating system? 

  We’ve been working on making it easier for you to find out how dog-friendly your visit will be before you and your four-legged-friend arrive. To help with this, we've created a new pawprint rating system and given all the places in our care a rating. You can find this information in the National Trust members’ handbook.

  Lanhydrock is a three pawprint rated place.

  Three pawprints shows the very best places you can visit for a day with your dog. You'll be able to take your dog to most areas, including indoors for a cup of tea. There'll be clearly signed dog zones and dog-friendly experiences. Read on to discover exactly where you can take your dog.

• Can my dog swim in the river?

  There are five designated dog bathing areas along the River Fowey and we ask that you keep your dog to these areas to minimise disturbance to wildlife in other parts of the river.