Visiting Ironbridge Gorge with your dog
Well behaved dogs are welcome to visit our sites and we look forward to welcoming you and your four legged friends to Ironbridge Gorge. Read on to discover the facilities available and where you can explore.
Our pawprint rating system
We have a pawprint rating system that helps you see at a glance the facilities you and your dog(s) can expect when visiting. All places with a pawprint rating welcome pet dogs, but the number of facilities differs. You can find out about the pawprint system here.
Our sites have a Pawprint Rating of 2. These places have water bowls, dog bins and dog-friendly walks. You'll be able to take your dog(s) into some areas, but not everywhere. If there's a food and beverage outlet, you can have a cup of tea with them, but only outside.
Where can my dog go?
Dogs on leads are very welcome in the outdoor areas. At Blists Hill dogs are welcome inside the Welcome Centre and National Trust shop. We ask that you keep your dogs on a short lead when visiting. There are local walks and green spaces to be enjoyed at all our sites and at Blists Hill there is a dog-friendly walk up to the Hay Inclined Plane. Dogs on short leads are also welcome in the Madeley Wood Adventure Playground in the grass seating areas and shelters, but not on the play equipment areas themselves.
Where can’t my dog go?
Only assistance dogs are allowed inside our museums, galleries, cafes and the Victorian exhibits at Blists Hill.
The Canine Code
We’ve worked with our partner Forthglade to come up with this Canine Code, which helps to make sure everyone can enjoy their day:
- Keep them close
Use a short, non-extendable lead to keep avoids tripping up other visitors. - Pick up the poo
Please always clear up after your dog(s). If you can't find a bin nearby, take the poo bags home with you. - Stay outside
You’ll be able to take your dog(s) into some areas, such as the Welcome Centre and Shop, but not everywhere. Dogs are not allowed in the Victorian buildings. At places where food and drink are served, you can eat and drink with them outside. -
Stay on the ball
Remember that not everyone loves dogs, and some people fear them. So make sure your dog doesn't run up to other people, especially children.
Keeping control of your dog
Our definition of close or effective control is:
- Being able to recall your dogs in any situation at the first call
- Being able to clearly see your dog at all times (not just knowing they have gone into the undergrowth or over the crest of the hill).
- Not allowing them to approach other visitors without their consent
- Keeping your dog on a lead when asked to do so
Our partners
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.