Dog Friendly
Attractions
Castles, steam trains, and gardens. A day out in Kent doesn't mean leaving the dog behind.
Culture and history, shared with your best friend.
Gone are the days of waiting in the car park. Many of Kent's top tourist attractions now welcome dogs — from the grounds of Leeds Castle to the carriages of heritage steam railways. Kent's identity as the Garden of England extends to its attractions: the county has more castles than any other in England, three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and a railway heritage that stretches back to the Victorian era. For dog owners, this means a remarkable range of days out where the whole family is invited. English Heritage sites at Dover, Deal, and Walmer Castles all allow dogs in their extensive grounds. The Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway — the world's smallest public railway — actively welcomes dogs on board (a ticket is required for your dog). The Kent & East Sussex Railway runs through the High Weald and is equally dog-friendly. For gardens, Riverhill Himalayan Gardens near Sevenoaks and Goodnestone Park in East Kent allow dogs on leads through their grounds. The key rule across most attractions: dogs are welcome in outdoor spaces and grounds but not inside historic buildings or museums. Plan accordingly, and you'll find Kent's attractions offer some of the best value dog-inclusive days out in the South East.
English Heritage
Dover, Deal, and Walmer Castles all welcome dogs in their expansive grounds.
Steam Trains
The RH&DR and Kent & East Sussex Railway extend a warm welcome to dogs.
Historic Sites
Explore Roman forts and medieval ruins across the county.
Gardens
Riverhill Himalayan Gardens and Goodnestone Park are doggy delights.
Common Questions
Can dogs go inside castles?
At most English Heritage and National Trust sites in Kent, dogs are welcome in the grounds and gardens but not inside the historic buildings, interiors, or museum spaces. The exception is sometimes cafés with outdoor seating — but always check on arrival. The grounds of Dover Castle, Deal Castle, and Walmer Castle are all accessible and substantial enough for a full day out.
Are dogs allowed on steam trains?
Yes — two of Kent's heritage railways welcome dogs. The Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway (RH&DR) requires a dog ticket (small charge) and allows dogs in open carriages. The Kent & East Sussex Railway between Tenterden and Bodiam also welcomes dogs. Both offer spectacular scenery — the RH&DR runs along the coast through Romney Marsh, while the K&ESR passes through the High Weald.
Which Kent gardens allow dogs?
Several of Kent's notable gardens allow dogs on leads: Riverhill Himalayan Gardens (Sevenoaks), Goodnestone Park (near Canterbury), Doddington Place Gardens (Sittingbourne), and Groombridge Place. National Trust gardens such as Sissinghurst Castle Garden and Chartwell allow dogs in some outdoor areas — check the National Trust website for up-to-date pet policies before visiting.
What is the best dog-friendly day out in Kent?
A popular combination is: morning at Walmer Castle grounds (Dover area), lunch at a dog-friendly pub in Deal or Sandwich, then an afternoon walk along the White Cliffs. Alternatively, the RH&DR train journey to Dungeness followed by a walk on the shingle headland offers a uniquely atmospheric day. For families, Leeds Castle grounds with a woodland walk and picnic is hard to beat — dogs are welcome on leads throughout the grounds.
Are Leeds Castle grounds dog-friendly?
Leeds Castle allows dogs on leads in the grounds, including the parkland and woodland areas. Dogs are not permitted inside the castle building itself. The grounds are extensive — over 500 acres — so there's plenty of space for a proper walk. There is parking on site, and the grounds include a maze, aviaries, and lakeside paths.
Plan Your Weekend
Check our 'This Weekend' guide for special dog-friendly events happening nearby.
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