Day 1 - Morning & Lunch
Immerse yourself in an experience of bygone rural life and crafts
The Living Museum is comprised of more than 50 rural buildings, some dating back to medieval times, salvaged from around the UK and lovingly restored. Tucked into woodland landscape or clustered in intimate hamlets are, amongst other gems, a cruck-framed hall, Tudor farmhouse, 17th century watermill, and plethora of thatched cottages waiting for you to explore. Reconstructed interiors and period gardens offer a window back in time, while cookery demonstrations and crafts workshops provide inspiration for the present and help retain knowledge for the future.
Wander the 40 acre site at your leisure, or follow themed trails, but keep your dog on a short lead so as not to disturb the resident farm animals.
Enjoy lunch on the deck of the museum’s dog-friendly waterside cafe or pre-book a picnic hamper.
Day 1 - Afternoon
Explore the Deer Park at Petworth
Dogs are permitted in the deer park and pleasure gardens, but must be kept away from the deer, and on the lead during the fawn season (late May to August).
Unfortunately only assistance dogs are permitted inside the baroque manor house, though you will still be able to appreciate the seamless view of the west facade from across the lake – another picture-postcard setup engineered by Brown.
Opening times: The Deer park is open 8am-8pm in Summer, and till 6pm in Winter.
Great Places to Stay
Great Places to Rest your Head
This cosy country pub overlooking the Downs can be found on the edge of the pretty, and appropriately named, town of Petworth. The Welldiggers is as happy hosting cocktail tastings as shooting parties, and perfectly positioned for exploring the South Downs.
All rooms are dog-friendly (at £15 per dog) but you could go one better and opt for the special Muddy Paws package, which includes fizz, steak dinner and breakfast for two humans, plus a sausage and treats for the dog. They even serve a ‘doggy beer’.
Day 2 - Morning
Enjoy a run or cycle with your canine teammate
Cross country running or biking with your canine teammate is becoming a popular pastime for those who want to share their sport with their pet. Chichester Parkrun (Saturdays 9am, Oaklands Park) welcomes participants with one dog as long as they are kept under control on a short lead or harness. Alternatively hook up with the South Downs & Coastal Canicrossers to get some local tips and insight (https://www.facebook.com/groups/1433920916884732/).
For CaniSport equipment and canine supplies (including dog lifejackets and neoprene booties), pop in to Purple Paw in East Wittering, run by Dog Sport enthusiast Jenni of K9 Fitness.
Further details:
Chichester Park Run: Oaklands Park, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 6AP
https://www.parkrun.org.uk/chichester/
Purple Paw: 4 Oakfield Road, East Wittering, Chichester, PO20 8RP
Visit Website: https://k9fitness.dog/ / Call: 07786 011780
Day 2 - Brunch
A refuel with a view
Day 2 - Afternoon
A walk on the beach
Popular local beaches for dog walkers are Selsey, where you’ll also find a blue plaque heritage trail and Bracklesham Bay which is also a favourite for fossil hunters.
Great Places to eat with your pooch
More Great places offering a warm welcome to your dog
Dog-friendly places to stay
The Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa, Midhurst which is part of the Historic Sussex Hotels group offers a ‘Muddy Paws’ package complete with doggy welcome pack and drying coat, and even the chance for a grooming session. The group’s other hotels offer similar pooch-friendly packages.
The following websites also list cottages, hotels and B&Bs in the area where dogs are welcome
https://www.caninecottages.co.uk/
https://www.petspyjamas.com/s/travel/dog-friendly-west-sussex