Visiting Woolsthorpe with your dog
- Published:
- 05 October 2025
We love dogs at Woolsthorpe but unfortunately due to the unique environment of our historic orchard we can only allow them, on a short lead, into the car parks and lower courtyard. Assistance dogs are welcome throughout.
Why are dogs restricted in the orchard?
The historic orchard is a unique and sensitive environment, home to heritage fruit trees and a delicate ecosystem that requires ongoing protection. While we love dogs, even well-behaved ones can unintentionally cause harm through:
- Soil compaction
Dog activity can compress the soil, affecting root health and tree stability. - Disturbance to wildlife
The orchard supports a variety of birds, insects, and small mammals that are easily disrupted. - Damage to vulnerable plant life
Some of our rare and historic plant species are easily harmed by trampling or digging.
Concerns Around Dog Fouling
Dog waste presents several serious risks to the orchard’s health and visitor experience:
- Environmental damage
Dog waste contains high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which can alter soil chemistry and negatively affect the health of our historic trees. - Spread of disease
Pathogens such as E. coli and Giardia can be transmitted to wildlife, other dogs, and humans—especially in areas where fruit is harvested or children play. - Water pollution
Waste can be washed into nearby water sources, contributing to contamination and harming aquatic life. - Impact on visitor experience
Fouling detracts from the natural beauty of the orchard and places an additional burden on our maintenance teams.