Dog friendly National Trust properties in Worcestershire

Introduced earlier this year, the Pawprint system lets dog owners see what facilities are available at different National Trust sites.

Properties are given either one, two or three ‘pawprints’ to signify ‘standard’, ‘good’ and ‘best’ when it comes to facilities for four-legged friends.

One means dogs are welcome but facilities are limited, while two means the property has water bowls, dog bins and dog-friendly walks. You may even be able to have a cup of tea with your dog, most likely outside.

Three is the gold standard and means you’ll be able to take your dog to most areas of the property, including indoors for a cup of tea and a treat.

There should be clearly-signed dog zones and dog-friendly experiences.

So how do Worcestershire’s National Trust properties measure up?

Croome - Two pawprints

Dogs are welcome at Croome (Image: National Trust)

According to the National Trust website: “We love dogs at Croome and they are welcome throughout the parkland.

“Please be aware though that there is livestock grazing across the site so please keep your dog on a short lead.

“Please also don’t let your dog swim in the lake and the river, for their health and so as not to disturb wildlife.”

READ MORE: Six dog-friendly cafes in Worcester

There are water bowls outside the visitor centre and nine dog waste bins across the site.

Only assistance dogs are allowed in the house, RAF canteen and museum, and the privately-owned walled gardens.

Greyfriars - One pawprint

Greyfriars doesn't have many facilities for dogs (Image: Google Street View)

This city centre site isn’t the most dog-friendly - only assistance dogs are allowed in the garden, house, cafe and bookshop.

Hanbury Hall - Two pawprints

Dogs need to be kept on leads at Hanbury Hall

Dogs on leads are welcome in the forecourt, stableyard, parkland and inside the Stables Cafe at Hanbury Hall.

Owners are advised to keep dogs on leads at all times as there are farm animals grazing in the parkland as well as wildlife including mice and birds of prey.

It’s assistance dogs only in the formal gardens and the hall.

The Firs - One pawprint

You can't take dogs into Elgar's birthplace but there are walks to enjoy nearby

Only assistance dogs are allowed in the cottage. But there are two circular walks through the countryside that surrounds The Firs that you can do with your dog.

You’ll find walking maps and friendly staff in the visitor centre.