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Dog-friendly RHS Partner Gardens to enjoy this autumn

As the vibrant hues of autumn sweep across the UK, there’s no better time to enjoy a crisp countryside walk with your canine companion

We all know that for many, walking with your dog in the great outdoors is one of life’s great pleasures. It’s even more special if you and your furry friend can explore the floral borders, planting schemes and woodland walks of some of our much-admired RHS Partner Gardens.
 
Over one hundred RHS Partner Gardens in the UK provide the perfect setting for an autumnal stroll, where you can take in the season’s rich tapestry of colour. Whether wandering through golden woodlands or across sweeping lawns, these gardens offer a peaceful escape for both you and your dog, making the most of the natural beauty this time of year brings.

Here are 10 of the finest RHS Partner Gardens that warmly welcome members with their dogs.
 

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, Dorset

© Julien Lightfoot – Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Abbotsbury is a woodland garden of splendid trees and shrubs of great rarity
With designated dog-friendly areas, you and your dog can enjoy a walk amongst exotic and unusual plants. The gardens transform into a breathtaking autumnal haven, with vivid foliage from trees such as Parrotia persica (Persian ironwood) and ancient Metasequoia glyptostroboides (dawn redwood), whose fern-like leaves turn a warm golden-brown, creating a striking contrast against its rugged bark. The deeply lobed red and orange leaves of downy Japanese maple ‘Aconitifolium’, along with striking Rhododendron and Hydrangea collections, showcase a diverse palette of colours and textures that are unrivalled by many UK gardens.

  • Free days out for RHS members: every day, between October and February

  • Find out more at Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

    Please note

    Dogs are allowed in the gardens in all areas except near the aviary and the woodland playground.

Holme For Gardens, Dorset

© Rebecca Johnson – Holmeforgardens
The borders are colour-themed with luxuriant planting for interest throughout the season
An autumnal dog walk at Holme for Gardens offers a peaceful experience surrounded by the beauty of the changing season. The gardens, designed by the Buckland family, showcase a blend of horticultural passion and respect for local heritage. As you walk through the grounds, you’ll see the Herbaceous Border come alive with the airy foliage of Miscanthus sinensis ‘Morning Light’ and the rich autumn colours of Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii ‘Goldsturm’ and Helenium ‘Moerheim Beauty’. The Acer palmatum ‘Osakazuki’ along the Woodland Walk displays vibrant red and orange foliage, providing a striking contrast against the evergreen backdrop.

Passing the Orchard and Kitchen Garden, you’ll notice the late-season fruits and vegetables that highlight the garden’s focus on seasonal beauty and productivity. With your dog by your side, Holme for Gardens offers a relaxing setting to enjoy the subtle charm of autumn amidst thoughtfully chosen plantings and a historic landscape.

  • Free days out for RHS members: Monday and Tuesday, between 2 January and 23 December
  • Find out more at Holme For Gardens
 

Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, West Sussex

This 240-acre garden features outstanding scenery throughout the year
Known as ‘The finest woodland gardens in England’, it is a breathtaking destination for an inspiring woodland walk with your dog this season, as the gardens transform into fiery shades of red, yellow, orange and gold.
 
Spot the ancient Ginkgo biloba (maidenhair tree) with its brilliant yellow fan-shaped leaves creating a golden canopy and Nyssa sylvatica (tupelo) specimens with their dramatic displays of deep reds, purples and vibrant oranges. Wander down tranquil paths that wind past shimmering lakes and beneath towering trees, all while enjoying the crisp, refreshing air.

  • Free days out for RHS members: Monday and Tuesday, between October and November; every day, between December and February
  • Find out more at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens
 

Sheffield Park and Garden, East Sussex

As the late summer warmth gives way to the colder air of autumn, nature responds with a spectacle of colour
As autumn unfolds, the landscape is awash with vibrant colour, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors. A stroll along the lakeside paths reveals Nyssa sylvatica, its foliage igniting in fiery shades of crimson and orange. In the woodlands, the striking Fothergilla major adds further bursts of yellow, orange and red, enhancing the seasonal tapestry. Standing proudly, the graceful Taxodium distichum (swamp cypress) softens the scene with its rusty bronze tones, beautifully reflected in the still waters below. Thoughtfully planted, Sheffield Park and Garden presents autumn at its very finest.

  • Free days out for RHS members: open every day, except for 24 and 25 December
  • Find out more at Sheffield Park and Garden
 

Natural Surroundings, Norfolk

© Anne Harrap – Natural Surroundings
Half of the site is divided up into small gardens to showcase every aspect of wildlife gardening
Natural Surroundings in Norfolk offers a tranquil escape for dog walkers, set against the backdrop of a thoughtfully designed landscape. Established to harmonise with the natural environment, visitors are invited to explore its serene pathways and enjoy a rich tapestry of autumnal colour. Admire the vibrant hues of Cornus kousa, with its striking foliage and distinctive bark, the elegant Acer griseum (paperbark maple) with its coppery bark and vivid red leaves and Euonymus alatus (winged spindle), which provides a brilliant display of fiery red foliage. Established with a focus on natural beauty and seasonal interest, Natural Surroundings is a delightful setting to experience the full splendour of autumn while enjoying a leisurely stroll with your canine companion.

  • Free days out for RHS members: every day in September; Tuesday to Sunday, between October and December
  • Find out more at Natural Surroundings
 

Gordon Castle Walled Garden, Fochabers

© Ed Bollom – Gordon Castle Walled Garden
A hidden gem situated between the River Spey and the Moray Coast
Situated between the River Spey and the Moray Coast, Gordon Castle Walled Garden offers a vibrant display of seasonal colour in autumn. Established over 200 years ago to provide fresh produce for the Duke of Gordon, this 8-acre garden is one of Britain’s oldest and largest kitchen gardens.
 
In autumn, the orchard becomes a focal point, showcasing a range of fruit trees. Varieties such as ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ and ‘James Grieve’ apples turn shades of deep red and golden yellow as they ripen. The garden’s extensive vegetable beds, featuring over 200 varieties grown from seed each year, come to life with an abundance of root vegetables, brassicas and leafy greens. These seasonal crops not only enhance the garden’s visual appeal but also supply the delicious fare at the on-site café. The garden’s thoughtful design highlights both its practical purpose and its autumnal beauty, making it a captivating place to explore as the year draws to a close.

 

Abbeywood Gardens, Cheshire

Visitors will find a 7-acre arboretum with rare deciduous and evergreen tree species
Abbeywood Gardens in Cheshire, a historic treasure spread across nearly 60 acres, provides a perfect setting for an autumnal dog walk. Originally developed by the Glynne family in the early 20th century, the gardens showcase a harmonious blend of formal design and naturalistic planting. As the season turns, Abbeywood becomes a stunning display of autumn colour. Stroll along the winding paths to take in the vibrant tones of Liquidambar styraciflua (sweet gum), with its distinctive star-shaped leaves, and the rich reds and oranges of Parrotia persica (Persian ironwood). The golden hues of Euonymus alatus (winged spindle) add warmth, while late-flowering Helenium and Hylotelephium​ bring bursts of colour to the borders. With its combination of historical elegance and carefully considered plantings, Abbeywood Gardens offers an inviting space for a peaceful autumn walk, perfectly reflecting the beauty of the season.

  • Free days out for RHS members: Tuesday and Wednesday, until 22 December
  • Find out more at Abbeywood Gardens
 

Picton Castle Gardens, Pembrokeshire

This is a garden for plant treasure hunters, nurtured by the gentle Pembrokeshire climate
Picton Castle in Wales offers a delightful setting for an autumnal dog walk, where historical charm meets seasonal beauty. This 13th-century estate is surrounded by 40 acres of carefully landscaped gardens and as autumn arrives, the garden comes alive with vibrant colours. Wander the paths to admire the golden foliage of Liriodendron tulipifera (tulip tree) and the striking red and orange hues of Acer x freemanii (Freeman maple). The rich green of festive holly provides a lovely contrast, while the traditional borders featuring Rudbeckia and Anemone continue to offer warm, inviting splashes of colour. With its blend of historical elegance and seasonal vibrancy, Picton Castle invites visitors to enjoy a peaceful stroll through its beautiful, heritage-rich landscape.

  • Free days out for RHS members: every day, except for 24-26 December, between October and December 
  • Find out more at Picton Castle Gardens
 

Arley Arboretum and Gardens, Worcestershire

© Zoe Pearce – Arley Arboretum and Gardens
The estate was opened to the public for the first time in 2002
Home to 300 species of rare and ancient trees, an autumn dog walk at Arley Arboretum and Gardens offers a spectacular display. Established in the 18th century by the Leveson-Gower family, Arley is particularly celebrated for its extensive collection of Acer, which truly comes into its own in autumn. As you wander through the gardens, you’ll be greeted by the brilliant reds and oranges of Acer palmatum (Japanese maple), with its stunning foliage ranging from deep crimson to fiery orange. The Acer griseum (paperbark maple) adds a distinctive touch with its coppery bark and vibrant autumnal leaves, while the Acer shirasawanum (Shirasawanum maple) provides a striking contrast with its golden-yellow foliage.
 
Wander under a canopy of rich gold from Fagus sylvatica (European beech), and the iconic Ginkgo biloba trees, with their brilliant yellow leaves, create a golden carpet along the paths. Serene lakes reflect the vivid foliage, adding to the tranquil atmosphere. With its carefully curated plantings and historic charm, Arley Arboretum and Gardens offers a picturesque and memorable setting for a leisurely autumn stroll.

 

Wentworth Woodhouse, South Yorkshire

Discover many hidden delights, from sweeping views to the wildflower meadow
An autumn walk at Wentworth Woodhouse offers a captivating blend of history and seasonal colour, set within the grounds of one of Britain’s most iconic stately homes. The gardens, part of an ambitious restoration project, are being lovingly restored to reflect the vision of 18th-century landscape designer Humphry Repton. As you explore, the rich bronze leaves of Fagus sylvatica Atropurpurea Group (copper beech) catch the light, while the golden tones of Ginkgo biloba provide a striking contrast. Woodland copses with majestic oaks stand proudly, their amber foliage adding warmth to the scene, and the scarlet berries of Sorbus aucuparia (rowan) offer splashes of vibrant colour.
 
With every step, you’ll see the work of dedicated teams bringing this historic landscape back to life. Wentworth Woodhouse is not only a beautiful place to enjoy an autumnal stroll but also a living example of garden restoration, where nature and history meet in perfect harmony.

 

Additional information
All RHS Partner Gardens mentioned allow dogs on short leads at the time of writing. Please always check before you travel to ensure the RHS Partner Garden you are visiting is open to avoid disappointment.
 
If visiting one of the RHS Partner Gardens with your dog, please ensure that you adhere to the Garden’s policies on dog etiquette, but as a standard please ensure you:
  • Keep your dog on a short lead at all times (unless stated otherwise by the Garden)
  • Clean up after your dog and either take it away with you or used dedicated dog waste bins provided
  • Keep your dog under control at all times especially around grazing livestock
  • Be aware not all other visitors like dogs! Every RHS Partner Garden has the right to turn away any dog who poses a risk to other visitors or animals in the vicinity.
Please note: Opening times and RHS member access vary. Please check with the garden before you attend to avoid disappointment

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