RHS ROSEMOOR has launched a six-month pilot of dog-friendly “Paws on Paths” days.

Dog-walkers are welcome to go along to the gardens in Torrington on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the trial period.

Dogs will be allowed into the formal gardens, stream field, lakeside, arboretums and woodlands with their owners.

They will not be permitted in the children's play areas, eateries, education centre, fruit and vegetable gardens, potager garden or on any lawns.

Up to two dogs per adult are welcome. All dogs must be kept on short leads throughout their visit. Short leads will be available to loan to those who come with long or extendable leads.

“Given we receive so many enquiries about dog access throughout the year, we really need to listen to what people are asking us for,” RHS Rosemoor Head of Site Emma Thompson said.

“We also understand that whilst some people love dogs, others really value the ability to visit a garden they know is pet free.

“This is why we are only allowing dogs in on regularly scheduled, designated days and are restricting dog access on these days to pathways, so that both types of visitors can enjoy our gardens in peace.

“Given we have 65 acres to explore, we are confident that we have plenty of space to provide an enjoyable experience for all during this trial.”

Assistance dogs will continue to have access every day and RHS Rosemoor’s current no-dogs-in-cars-at-any-time policy will remain in place.

Feedback will be collected from all visitors to the gardens, with or without pets, as well as RHS members, staff and volunteers throughout the trial period to fully inform any decision about the pilot’s success when it ends.

Comments will be collected via an online survey which will also be made available in hard copy at the garden on request.