Pooches in the Park

My pup Pebbles can be so fussy about the park she goes to. If we take her to one she doesn't like she will lie down in protest, where only the prospect of food can coerce her to walk.  If you have a stubborn pup like mine, or are bored of the same old park, keep reading to find out where Pebbles likes to walk, and I feel comfortable enough letting her off the lead.

Pollok Country Park

This is the largest park in Glasgow, with an abundance of things to do and walks to take, you'll never be bored here.  Woodland trails and picturesque gardens are open to dogs to sniff around, large grass areas are great for games of fetch, and the café at Pollok House has a back entrance to let dogs sit in their outdoor seating area.

If you ever find yourself on a dog free day, you can check out the Burrel Collection, Pollok House and the Stables near the Dumbreck Road entrance to the park. 

Kelvingrove Park

Located in the heart of the West End, looking onto Kelvingrove Art Gallery is Kelvingrove Park.  Sitting on the River Kelvin, not only does Kelvingrove Park take in it's beautiful surroundings, it also offers a multitude of amenities.  In the park you will find a bowling green, tennis courts, children's play area and a skatepark.  There are also a number of cafés, pubs and restaurants in the area which welcome dogs.  I've taken Pebbles to The Left Bank to meet a friend for brunch and was very impressed with the food, service and ofcourse welcome for the dogs. 

Newlands Park

In the Southside of Glasgow lies this hidden gem.  I've been coming here ever since I was a child, and my pooch loves it now too.  With hidden paths, tennis courts, a small play park and lot's of space for your pup to run around, there's plenty to do.  The Dandelion Café's amazing food and home-baking (doggy muffins included) means you can enjoy a catch-up over a coffee with friends.  Although the café doesnt allow dogs inside, there is outdoor table-service seating under the veranda with water for the pups, where you can dog-watch to your heart's content. 

 Roukenglen Park 

Another Southside favourite for us both.  The expanse of this park means it's a great place for letting your dog off the lead and throwing a ball.  There are plenty of trails for dog walkers to enjoy, immersed in woodland you'll forget that you're less than 20 minutes from the city centre. There is an adventurous play area for children to enjoy, and the garden centre within the park offers an extensive range of gifts and plants.

The Boathouse is the café located with views of the pond and it's wildlife, whether it's a coffee or a bite to eat, delicious fresh food is served all day.  A particular favourite of mine is their sticky toffee pudding (pictured below).  Unfortunately dogs are no longer allowed in the café, however there is a takeaway window to order from and plenty of benches throughout the park to have a rest. Pebbles particularly enjoys a mini ice-cream cone of her own here on a rare hot day!