If you’ve ever watched your dog sprint across a park like they’ve hit the jackpot, you know the pure joy of a good off-leash spot. London has plenty of green spaces, but not all of them are created equal for your four-legged best friend.
Some parks boast wide-open fields perfect for zoomies, while others feature agility courses to make your pup feel like a pro athlete. And some? They just have the best sticks in town.
But let’s be honest—not every ‘dog-friendly’ park lives up to the name. Some spots barely have enough space for a decent game of fetch, while others are a social hub for every pup in the neighbourhood.
So, where should you take your furry best friend for the ultimate tail-wagging experience? We sniffed out the best dog parks in London—so you don’t have to.
Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Park
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Location: Lambeth Rd
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Website
Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Park isn’t just a park—it’s a canine obstacle course with a social club on the side.
The agility area is packed with ramps, weave posts, and a tunnel. It’s the perfect place for your dog to channel their inner athlete—or just run in circles and have a blast.
Beyond that, the park offers sprawling green spaces and even the Tibetan Peace Garden—a perfect spot for some zen after your pup’s zoomies.
The local dog community is vibrant, so don’t be surprised if your pup makes a best friend before you even find a bench.
Pro tip:
After an active session, take a 10-15 minute walk to Mercato Metropolitano. It’s a dog-friendly market with plenty of dining options.
Myatt’s Fields Park
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Location: 12 Calais St
Contact: +44 20 7737 6097
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7:00 AM until Sunset
Website
Myatt’s Fields Park is like a VIP lounge for dogs—spacious and fully enclosed. Plus, it’s designed for safe, off-leash fun.
This 2,500-square-meter fenced haven is next to the tennis courts. Owners can relax, knowing the secure gates and sturdy 128 cm fence will safely contain even the most determined escape artists.
But the perks don’t stop at the dog run. The Little Cat Café (ironically, very dog-friendly) serves up coffee, milkshakes, and even alcohol. It’s got that community feel where everyone—two-legged and four-legged—is welcome.
Pro tip:
While your pup winds down, why not keep the energy going? The park’s tennis courts and artificial grass football pitch are available to book.
Bartlett Park
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Location: 17 Bartlett Cl
Contact: +44 20 7364 5000
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Website
Bartlett Park is perfect for dogs who love to run free and owners who appreciate open spaces.
Spanning nearly five hectares in Poplar, it offers plenty of room for pups to stretch their legs. The dedicated off-leash area lets dogs burn off energy while you chat with fellow dog lovers.
Beyond the dog zone, there’s an outdoor gym and a grass football pitch with changing rooms—so it’s not just the dogs getting a workout.
Pro tip:
Stroll along the canalside walkway for a peaceful escape from the city buzz. It’s a calming route for you and your pup, filled with sights to see.
Camden Square Gardens
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Location: 12 Camden Square
Contact: +44 20 7974 4444
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website
About a third of Camden Square Gardens is fenced off as a dedicated dog exercise area. Here, pups can run off-leash while the rest of the gardens remain picnic-friendly.
The well-maintained space features benches where owners can rest comfortably as their dogs socialise and make new friends.
With mature trees and seasonal flowers, the park is a charming spot for both playdates and peaceful strolls.
Pro tip:
The dog area’s fence is only about 86 cm high, so it’s not escape-proof. If your pup is a jumper or has a wandering spirit, keep a close eye to avoid an unexpected chase.
Swan Street Dog Park
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Location: 49 Harper Rd
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Officially known as the Newington Gardens Dog Area, Swan Street Dog Park is a secure spot for dogs to run and play. Fully enclosed by a 140 cm metal bar fence, it offers plenty of room for off-leash fun.
The entrance on Swan Street features a double gate for added security. However, owners of small escape artists should be aware of a 15 cm gap under the gate—something to keep in mind if your pup loves squeezing into tight spaces.
The park offers a mix of concrete paths, grassy areas, and scattered trees. With three benches for owners to relax and a dog waste bin to keep the area clean, it’s a great choice for a laid-back outing.
Pro tip:
Bring a portable water bowl on warm days, as shaded spots are limited. A cooling mat can also help keep your pup comfortable after playtime.
Evelyn Dog Fenced Park
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Location: 2 Clyde St
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Evelyn Dog Fenced Park gives pups more than just an open field. It features hills, sprinting space, and plenty of room for off-leash exploration.
The fully enclosed area means owners can relax while their dogs burn off energy, whether they’re racing up slopes or sniffing out new favourite spots.
Waste disposal stations are on hand to keep things tidy. Besides that, the open layout makes it easy for dogs to socialise.
Pro tip:
The fencing generally does its job, but it’s a good idea to inspect it upon arrival. There have been occasional reports of gaps in the upper sections.
Barnard Park
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Location: Copenhagen St
Contact: +44 20 7527 2000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday & Thursday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website
Barnard Park is nearly 9 acres of open space where dogs can run free and enjoy off-leash adventures.
The main lawns are perfect for a casual game of fetch. Meanwhile, the dedicated dog exercise area is equipped with agility equipment, letting pups put their skills to the test.
Outside the dog-friendly zones, the park is packed with activity. It includes a water play area in the playground, an adventure space for kids, and a 9-a-side artificial football and rugby pitch.
Pro tip:
For a quieter space, check out the smaller extension park on Matilda Street near St. Andrews School—a local favourite for dog owners.
Shandy Park
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Location: 24 Bale Rd
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Website
Shandy Park may be small, but it’s a well-loved green space in Tower Hamlets. Families flock here for the playgrounds designed for all ages.
On the other hand, nature lovers appreciate the variety of trees and seasonal flowers that create a stunning display in the spring.
The enclosed area where pups can play off-leash is a simple, grassy spot with two gates. It offers a safe and handy place for a quick runaround.
Pro tip:
Bring your own waste bags and watch for any uncollected mess in the dog area.
Pasley Park
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Location: Pasley Park, Chapter Rd
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Pasley Park goes all in for dog owners, offering not one but three fully enclosed exercise areas tailored to different needs.
The northern section spans 800 square meters. It has a well-kept lawn, a bench, and two dog waste bins. Secure metal railings (120–130 cm high) and base plates help keep even the sneakiest small dogs from slipping out.
The southeastern area spans 600 square meters. It’s a quieter spot with a lawn and trees, bordered by metal railings and high brick walls for extra security.
The southwest area is the largest section, stretching across 1,800 square meters. It features a mix of grass, trees, and a woodchip path leading to a bench.
Pro tip:
Pasley Park’s dog areas are clean, but there are limited waste bags available. Be sure to bring your own to help keep the park tidy.
Kennington Park
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Location: Kennington Park Rd
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Website
This park has transformed from its Victorian roots into a lively community hub with plenty to offer. Covering 21 acres, it’s ideal for working out or enjoying the outdoors.
Relocated due to the Northern Line Extension, the dog walking area now sits by the Astroturf tennis courts. It offers a secure and enjoyable space for pups to play.
Outside the dog-friendly area, the park is a playground for sports lovers. It features football and cricket fields, basketball hoops, and even one of London’s first skate bowls.
Pro tip:
After some exercise, swing by Collective—the park’s café. Enjoy a slice of sourdough pizza and a laid-back atmosphere.
Plumstead Common
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Location: Old Mill Rd
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Plumstead Common spans nearly 25 hectares. It offers a space for dogs to run, people to relax, and a bit of history along the way.
The dog park provides a secure off-leash area for pups, while owners can chat with fellow dog lovers. Aside from that, it also features football pitches, tennis courts, and trails for jogging or cycling.
And if you’re into history, don’t miss the 18th-century Plumstead Common Windmill—a nod to the area’s past.
Pro tip:
After a good run, stop by The Star pub near Plumstead Common—every great walk deserves a great pint.
Primrose Hill
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Location: Primrose Hill Rd
Contact: +44 300 061 2300
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Website
Primrose Hill is a haven for dogs to zoom around and for owners to enjoy one of London’s best skyline views. With open spaces and an off-leash policy, it’s perfect for pups to sprint and socialise.
At 63 meters high, the summit is a favourite hangout for locals and visitors alike. It offers a great people-watching spot alongside dog-friendly vibes.
Feeling hungry? The area has plenty of dog-friendly cafés and pubs. Greenberry Café is a local favourite, serving delicious food with a warm welcome for furry friends.
Pro tip:
Off-leash is allowed, but the hill gets quite busy. Keep an eye on your dog to avoid unexpected dashes into the crowd.
Grow Walkies – North London
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Location: Kitts End Farm, Lower, Kitts End Rd
Contact: +44 800 260 6915
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Website
Grow Walkies offers a VIP experience for dogs in a fully enclosed space designed for running, playing, and training without distractions. The facility includes two 2.5-acre fields, each secured with 6-foot fencing.
Unlike public parks, it operates on a pre-booking system, so you and your pup have the entire area to yourselves. This setup is perfect for dogs who need their own space or a controlled environment.
Features like agility equipment, a weather shelter, and a charging point add convenience. Besides that, sessions start at £10 for 30 minutes, with advance booking required.
Pro tip:
Upon arrival, follow the signs to your reserved field and use the phone-activated recognition gate for easy entry.
