Discover more at Badbury Rings
Find out how to get to Badbury Rings, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
Badbury Rings and the surrounding Kingston Lacy estate are beautiful places to explore with dogs, thanks to the network of paths through fields and open countryside. To keep Badbury Rings clean and safe for both livestock and wildlife, please be a responsible dog owner and follow the advice and canine code below.
There are plenty of fields and paths for dogs to explore, but be aware that there are often sheep and cows grazing in and around Badbury Rings, and it is an important habitat for endangered wildlife. Please keep dogs on the lead during the bird breeding season (February-August), and when there is livestock present – look out for signs with planned grazing schedules, or ask a member of staff if available in the car park.
Dogs running loose can stress pregnant sheep, which can have deadly consequences, and younger animals may get separated from their mothers if chased by a dog.
Dogs should be kept on the lead in areas like heaths, downs and wetlands between late February and August. This is because birds such as skylarks nest on or near the ground at these times. Disturbance may mean a bird abandons a nest, and dogs may chase and catch birds.
Please pick up dog poo and throw it in the bins provided or take it home. This is particularly important in areas where livestock graze because dog poo can lead to diseases that cause serious damage to cattle and sheep.
Please keep dogs on leads or under close control. This includes preventing your dog from chasing flocks of birds, as chasing migrating or overwintering birds can leave them exhausted and vulnerable.
Our definition of close or effective control is:
We’ve worked with our partner Forthglade to come up with this Canine Code, which helps to make sure everyone can enjoy their day:
Find out how to get to Badbury Rings, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
We've partnered with natural pet food maker Forthglade so that you and your dog can get even more out of the special places we care for.
Discover the best places for a dog walk, from coastal adventures and dramatic mountains to more leisurely walks near you. Plus, find information on dog-friendly cafés and read our Canine Code.
If you’re bringing your dog(s) to the places we care for, you'll find information on our pawprint rating system and the Canine Code to help plan your visit.
Find a place to sit and relax with your dog after a good walk. Here's a selection of great walks with dog-friendly cafés at the end to round off the day.
We've partnered with natural pet food maker Forthglade to create the Dogs Welcome project, helping you and your dog(s) get the most out of the places in our care.
Families and dog walkers regularly head to Badbury Rings to explore the ancient Iron Age hillfort, while also enjoying the avenue of beech trees and views of the Dorset countryside.
There are plenty of dog-friendly things to do in Dorset. Explore a network of woodland trails or head to the coast for a bracing beach walk or sea swim.