The Windsor Estate launches new dog walking measures
Published by
Windsor Great Park
Jan 21 2025
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To improve and safeguard the visitor experience across Windsor Great Park and Forests, a revised code of conduct for all dog walkers will be introduced alongside a new permit scheme covering commercial dog walking organisations.
Following a wide-ranging consultation, the new measures will be introduced for dog walkers visiting Windsor Great Park, Swinley Forest and Buttersteep Forest.
From Monday 24 February 2025
All dog walkers visiting Windsor Great Park, Swinley Forest and Buttersteep Forest must:
- Walk no more than four dogs at one time
- Not meet with other visitors that would lead to a group of more than eight dogs
- Always be in control of their dog, ensuring that it is always in sight
From Monday 31 March
All dog walking businesses exercising in Windsor Great Park, Swinley Forest and Buttersteep Forest will require a Professional Dog Walking Permit.
These new measures come as part of a continued commitment to environmental and ecological best practice, with approximately 85% of the Windsor Estate protected under an environmental designation including:
- Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
- Special Area of Conservation (SAC)
- Special Protection Area for the Conservation of Wild Birds (SPA)
With over 5.5 million visitors to Windsor Great Park – and over 2 million more to Swinley and Buttersteep Forests – these regulations are designed to ensure that all visitors, including dogs, have a safe and enjoyable visit and help to safeguard vital habitats and rare flora and fauna on the Windsor Estate.
The new Commercial Dog Walking Scheme ensures businesses are complying with health and safety standards for their staff and dogs, and that they are fully insured. In line with the Windsor Great Park regulations, the permit scheme also brings professional dog walking in line with other businesses that operate in Windsor Great Park and Forest.
Paul Sedgwick, Deputy Ranger of Windsor Great Park says:
“We have always welcomed well-behaved dogs and their owners to enjoy the Windsor Estate, a space that is shared by many other visitor user groups and wildlife. These new measures have been designed to allow everyone to continue to enjoy the space safely and responsibly.”
Scott Fryer, Policy Manager for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home says:
“We welcome the new code of conduct for Windsor Great Park, designed so these wonderful places can continue to be enjoyed responsibly by everyone.”
“The Code promotes responsible and reasonable practices like keeping dogs under control, respecting designated on-lead areas, and properly disposing of waste. By following these sensible rules, we can help preserve these natural environments, while ensuring all visitors have a safe and peaceful experience.”
Notes
These measures were developed in consultation with government departments, local councils, landowners, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, The Kennel Club, The Dogs Trust, and local dog walking businesses.
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