A small black terrier perched on a public art sculpture in dog-friendly Regent’s Park.

Dog-Friendly Regent’s Park: Top Trails and Cafés to Enjoy

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Looking for a perfect green escape with your pup? Imagine strolling through wide-open fields, shaded pathways, and scenic lakes—all in the heart of London. Dog-Friendly Regent’s Park is one of the best places for a pawsome adventure.

Cookie exploring under the low branches of a tree in dog-friendly Regent’s Park, surrounded by leaves like a natural green shelter.
Framed by leafy branches, Cookie explores what felt like a tiny green hideout in the heart of dog-friendly Regent’s Park. Every sniff tells a story—and she was ready to read them all.

Furthermore, it regularly hosts dog meetups, creating great opportunities for your pup to play and socialize. Some gatherings are casual, while others, like the Cavaliers of London meetup, focus on bringing specific breeds together.

Regent’s Park is one of London’s best green spaces, but if you’re looking for more pet-friendly places nearby, don’t miss Dog-Friendly Camden, home to vibrant markets, cafés, and scenic walks.

Regent’s Park offers plenty of space for dogs to explore. In fact, from scenic trails to open fields, there’s something for every pup. To help you plan your visit, below are the best dog-friendly areas in the park.

Cookie perched on a tree branch in dog-friendly Regent’s Park, looking out curiously from above.
Whether she was on squirrel patrol or just searching for a better view, Cookie climbed like a little explorer. Just another adventure in dog-friendly Regent’s Park.

🌳 1. The Broad Walk: A Scenic Dog-Friendly Stroll

This wide, tree-lined path is a dream for on-leash walks. Sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a dappled golden glow on the pavement. As you stroll, you’ll pass shaded spots perfect for a break—and, if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of animals from the London Zoo! Peering through certain areas, you may spot part of the enclosures, adding a fun, unexpected twist to your walk with your pup.

🌿 2. The Boating Lake & Wildlife Areas

Although dogs can’t swim in the lake, the area around it is great for peaceful walks. Ducks, swans, and other wildlife make this spot visually stunning. However, be mindful of wildlife-protected zones, where leash rules may apply.

Although the entire park is breathtaking, this area holds a special place in my heart. For one, the trees, with their long branches falling gently toward the water, create a dreamlike setting. Whenever I visit, I always stop here, sitting with Cookie as we take in the peaceful view. Meanwhile, the wildlife carries on with its day. Some play near the water’s edge, while others splash through the lake, adding to the serene atmosphere. Occasionally, a few get a little mischievous, chasing each other in a playful dance. Because of these moments, this place always feels truly magical!

🐾 3. Open Fields & Picnic Areas

Some designated areas allow off-leash play, giving dogs plenty of space to run freely. The grassy fields near the park’s center are perfect for fetch and socializing.

A quiet moment between Cookie and her human, lying on the grass beneath a wide tree in dog-friendly Regent’s Park.
Side by side, we took a quiet pause beneath a wide, low-canopied tree. Dog-friendly Regent’s Park isn’t just for walks—it’s for stillness too.

I love having picnics here, and Cookie always enjoys the wide-open space for us to play together. It’s a peaceful spot to relax while watching dogs run around happily. Even better, there are public restrooms nearby—and they’re usually quite clean, making them convenient for any urgent needs!

Sometimes, the best discoveries happen by accident. Back in September 2021, I was exploring London’s parks with Cookie, visiting a different one every weekend. That Saturday, we decided to visit Regent’s Park. After a long walk and some playtime, we suddenly stumbled upon something unexpected—a stunning open-air art exhibition.

The Regent’s Park Street Gallery is an annual event that transforms part of the park into a spectacular outdoor gallery. Each year, sculptures from artists around the world are displayed, turning nature into a creative space. Even better, it’s completely free!

Of course, we took our time admiring each piece. Meanwhile, Cookie, being the true diva she is, posed next to the sculptures like a natural-born art critic. In addition, each sculpture includes detailed information about the artwork and the artist, making the experience even more immersive.

However, this visit became even more special. Among all the sculptures, I unexpectedly found works from two Portuguese artists. As a result, seeing their creations displayed in the heart of London touched me deeply. It felt like a small piece of home had found me in an unexpected place.

👉 Want to see the exhibitions from past years? Click below to explore!
(This will be where the hide/show button for yearly photos goes!)

🎭 Cookie’s Mystery Picks

These sculptures didn’t share their names—but they still sparked wonder. Cookie explored them all, one paw at a time.

Exploring Dog-Friendly Regent’s Park is even better when you know where to take a break. Luckily, Broad Walk Café is a great spot just 5-10 minutes from the entrance. This large café has a spacious outdoor area, where you’ll find water bowls for furry friends.

🐾 Broad Walk Café – A Pet-Friendly Treat Stop

As the name suggests, this café sits along The Broad Walk and is one of the most dog-friendly cafés near Regent’s Park. Not only does it provide a huge outdoor space, but it also features dog photography on the walls, showing just how much they welcome pups.

Inside, you’ll find plenty of sweet temptations for those with a sweet tooth. The staff is always kind, making the experience even more enjoyable. However, during one of my visits, an unexpected event happened—the café filled with smoke! I’m not sure what the staff burned that day, but it certainly made for a memorable visit.

Cookie sitting on a chair at Broad Walk Café in dog-friendly Regent’s Park, with large dog portraits of a Cocker Spaniel and Dachshund behind her.
At Broad Walk Café in dog-friendly Regent’s Park, Cookie poses like a true art critic beneath two stylish dog portraits—one of a Cocker Spaniel, the other a noble Dachshund. A pup-friendly moment captured with a wag and a wink.

🎩 A Time-Traveling Tea Party at Broad Walk Café

Yet, my most unforgettable experience at Broad Walk Café had nothing to do with food. On one visit, as I sipped my tea and watched the world go by, something unexpected caught my eye. A group of four women sat nearby, elegantly sipping their tea and nibbling on scones. That might sound normal, but their outfits made me do a double take. They weren’t just any visitors—they looked like they had stepped straight out of the 18th century.

Of course, I couldn’t resist approaching them. I complimented their stunning outfits, feeling a tiny bit jealous of their style. Curious, I asked if they were celebrating something special. Their answer? No occasion at all! They were simply a group of friends who loved dressing this way while enjoying their tea.

Later, I saw them walking through the park, twirling their vintage parasols as if they had stepped out of another era. I stopped for a moment, mesmerized by the scene. For a second, it felt like I had travelled back in time.

This is London—there’s always something unexpected.

To make the most of your visit, it’s important to plan ahead. Below are some useful tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience with your pup.

Regent’s Park is one of London’s most beautiful green spaces, offering dog-friendly trails, open fields, and scenic gardens. To learn more about park facilities and guidelines, visit the official Royal Parks website.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

Regent’s Park is a popular spot, so timing matters. Weekday mornings and late afternoons are the best times to visit if you want to avoid crowds. On weekends, the park gets busier, especially around midday, when families and tourists arrive.

For a quieter experience, visiting on a weekday morning allows your pup to enjoy more space to explore and play without too much distraction.

🐕 Leash Rules & Restricted Areas

While most areas of Dog-Friendly Regent’s Park welcome dogs, some spots require them to be on a leash. Certain wildlife zones and garden areas have restrictions, so look out for signs before letting your pup roam freely.

Additionally, it’s always a good idea to carry a leash, even in off-leash areas. If the park gets too crowded, keeping your dog close ensures a safe and stress-free experience.

While exploring dog-friendly Regent’s Park, I wandered briefly into Queen Mary’s Gardens, a beautifully maintained space known for its stunning floral displays. Technically, dogs aren’t allowed in this particular area—it’s clearly signed at the entrance. However, Cookie accompanied me in her buggy, quietly tucked in as I took in the scenery.

Interestingly, the gardens surprised me with one of the most unexpected and intriguing sights: a green topiary sculpture of a man rising from the earth, surrounded by lush tropical plants and colorful blooms. Although there was no artist label or sign nearby, the piece immediately captured my attention. It felt like a modern-day Green Man—earthy, expressive, and full of mystery.

A green sculpture of a mysterious man partially emerging from the ground in Queen Mary’s Gardens, located within dog-friendly Regent’s Park.
A mysterious topiary figure spotted among the flowers in Queen Mary’s Gardens. A brief and beautiful moment in a not-so-doggy corner of Regent’s Park.

Moreover, the stillness of the scene, paired with the gentle hum of the garden’s quiet atmosphere, offered a small but memorable moment. I didn’t stay long, out of respect for the space, but I’m glad I had the chance to see this living artwork up close. Sometimes, beauty finds you in the quietest corners—especially when you’re rolling with a well-behaved pup in disguise.

Packing a few essentials will keep your visit comfortable for both you and your dog. Make sure to bring:

💧 Water & a collapsible bowl – Hydration is key, especially on warm days.
🗑️ Waste bags – Always clean up after your pup to keep the park enjoyable for everyone.
🦴 Tasty treats – Perfect for rewarding good behaviour during your stroll.
🧺 A light blanket – Ideal for relaxing at one of the picnic areas.

Getting to Dog-Friendly Regent’s Park with your pup is easy, whether you prefer public transport or a scenic walk. Here are the best ways to reach the park.

Cookie sitting on a London Overground seat, looking at another dog during the ride to dog-friendly Regent’s Park.
On the way to dog-friendly Regent’s Park, Cookie shared the Overground with another pup—just a regular day on London’s pet-friendly transport system.

📍 Nearest Tube Stations & Pet-Friendly Transport

🐾 Regent’s Park Station (Bakerloo Line) – Just a 3-minute walk to the park entrance.
👣 Great Portland Street Station (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan Lines) – Around 5 minutes on foot.
🚇 Baker Street Station (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan Lines) – A 10-minute walk to the park.

Dogs can ride for free on the London Underground, buses, and trains, making public transport a convenient option. However, they must stay on a leash at all times and be carried on escalators where required. For more details, check TfL’s official pet travel guidelines. If you prefer a taxi or rideshare, check ahead—some services welcome dogs, while others have restrictions.

Traveling with your dog in London is easy, but what if you’re visiting from abroad? Learn how to bring your pup safely with our Essential Guide to Pet Travel in the UK.

🐾 Travel Tip: When planning your journey to dog-friendly Regent’s Park, it’s good to know that dogs are welcome on most London transport. In fact, you can bring your pup on the Overground, Underground, buses, and even some trains—as long as they’re well-behaved.

Moreover, you won’t need a ticket or Oyster card for your dog. Simply keep them on a lead, or in a secure carrier if they’re small. If possible, avoid using escalators, as they can be tricky or unsafe for paws—lifts or stairs are a better choice.

Overall, traveling with your dog in London is easier than many expect. And sometimes, the journey is just as memorable as the destination—especially when it leads to Regent’s Park tail wags.

🚶‍♂️ Walking Routes from Camden & Primrose Hill

If you prefer to walk to Regent’s Park, here are two scenic routes:

🌿 From Camden Market (15-20 minutes) – Walk along Regent’s Canal Towpath, enjoying the water views before entering the park.
🏞️ From Primrose Hill (10 minutes) – A short walk downhill takes you straight into Regent’s Park’s open fields, perfect for a relaxed start to your visit.

Both routes offer beautiful scenery, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination!

Regent’s Park isn’t just a green space; it’s a dog-friendly haven in the heart of London. Whether you’re strolling along The Broad Walk, relaxing by the Boating Lake, or enjoying a treat at Broad Walk Café, this park offers the perfect mix of nature, adventure, and relaxation for both you and your pup.

Cookie walking along a vibrant garden path surrounded by flowers in dog-friendly Regent’s Park.
Amid blooms and soft pathways, Cookie took her time exploring one of the many colourful garden trails in dog-friendly Regent’s Park.

With plenty of open spaces, scenic routes, and even unexpected surprises, every visit feels special. Plus, the annual Street Gallery adds a creative touch, making the experience even more unique.

Regent’s Park is a must-visit for dog lovers, but the adventure doesn’t have to end here! Looking for more pawsome places to explore? Click below to uncover more dog-friendly destinations!

👉 Have you explored Dog-Friendly Regent’s Park with your pup? Share your experience in the comments! 🐾

🐶 Is Regent’s Park dog-friendly?

Yes! Regent’s Park welcomes dogs, making it a fantastic place to explore with your pup. Most areas allow dogs, but a few sections, such as the formal gardens, have restrictions. Therefore, it’s always best to check the signs before entering.

🦴 Are dogs allowed inside the shops and cafés near the park?

Many nearby cafés with outdoor seating happily welcome dogs. Additionally, some shops, especially pet-friendly ones, allow well-behaved pups inside. However, it’s a good idea to ask before entering, as policies may vary.

🍽️ Are there dog-friendly restaurants at Regent’s Park?

Absolutely! Several cafés near the park offer outdoor seating and water bowls for dogs. In fact, Broad Walk Café is one of the most pet-friendly spots, featuring a spacious terrace and even dog photography on display.

🚇 Can I bring my dog on public transport to Regent’s Park?

Yes! Dogs can travel for free on the London Underground, buses, and trains. However, they must be on a leash at all times. Additionally, if using escalators, you may need to carry your dog for safety reasons.

🐾 When is the best time to visit Regent’s Park with a dog?

The best times to visit are weekday mornings or late afternoons, as the park is quieter. On weekends, it tends to get busier, especially during midday. If you prefer a more peaceful experience, arriving early is the best option.

🛍️ What should I bring for my dog when visiting the park?

Bringing a few essentials will ensure a comfortable visit. You’ll need:
💧 Water & a collapsible bowl – Hydration is important, especially on warm days.
🗑️ Waste bags – Keeping the park clean benefits everyone.
🦴 Tasty treats – A great way to reward good behaviour.
🧺 A light blanket – Perfect for relaxing in the picnic areas.

🐕 Are there any dog-friendly parks near Regent’s Park?

Yes! Primrose Hill, which is connected to Regent’s Park, is a fantastic dog-friendly area. Moreover, it offers stunning panoramic views of London, making it a great spot for both dogs and their humans to enjoy.

❓ What are some other dog-friendly places near Regent’s Park?

Camden, just a short walk away, is full of dog-friendly cafés, markets, and scenic routes. Check out our Guide to Dog-Friendly Camden for the best spots to explore!


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