The new rule comes in from August 1
The new rule comes in from August 1 (Image: Manchester Evening News)
Visitors to Tatton Park have been having their say over a controversial rule change implemented this month.
The Manchester Evening News reported earlier how dog walkers are no longer required to keep their animals on a lead at the attraction, unless they’re in the gardens and farm.
While visitors were required to keep dogs on leads during May, June and July, ‘due to dog attacks on deer calves, pregnant hinds and sheep’, park bosses say the measure has now been reviewed and from Friday, August 1, they’re no longer required.
But the move has sparked anger from those who have branded it ‘a terrible idea’, saying ‘dogs should always be kept on leads’.
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Dozens of Manchester Evening News readers have responded to our story, with many of them sharing the same view.
And a poll on our website asking readers whether dogs should be allowed off leads in public areas has so far had a huge response, with around 80 per cent of people voting ‘no’.
“Terrible idea,” said Lilian Johnson, commenting on our story on the MEN Facebook page. “Dogs should always be on leads in public except in designated, well fenced areas. Many dog owners don’t pick up after their dogs, at least if they are in designated areas others can enjoy a walk without having to watch where they put their feet.”
Helen Serridge said: “Sounds like a bad decision, I agree a designated area for dogs to run free would be better, too many horror stories unfortunately of dogs biting people and unpredictable dogs.”
Craig Shepherd added: “Dogs should be kept on leads apart from designated areas. Too many owners have no control over their dogs because they haven’t trained them sufficiently.”
Readers have left similar comments on our website, including one who said: “They should be on a lead at all times, even if it’s a long lead, where children and other dogs are likely to be. They are still animals and NO dog is 100% trustworthy and I have always had dogs.”
Dogs no longer have to be on lead at Tatton Park(Image: Tatton Park)
Another added: “As a dog owner, who lives close to Tatton Park, I do not think this is a good idea. A dog can get enough exercise on a long lead and still be kept under control.
“I have an adorable cockapoo but even he can react badly to some dogs, so I never let him off lead. Also, you never know what kind of individual is going to be out with his dog, given the amount of recent dog attacks. Keep them safely on a lead and children, the elderly and other dog owners will all be safe.
“In addition, if you let dogs run freely they will poo anywhere and I doubt very much the mobile phone obsessed owners will bother to pick this up.”
Earlier, the Manchester Evening News told how some dog owners welcomed the rule change, with one declaring it ‘amazing news’, adding: “Our very favourite place, where we can enjoy peace and space.”
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Another said she’ll no longer have to go elsewhere to make sure her dog gets enough exercise.
Tatton Park said: “We welcome dogs of all shapes and sizes and we want you and your dog to have an enjoyable and stress-free day. We also need to protect farm animals, wildlife and habitats and ensure everyone can enjoy the Park, whether or not they have a dog.
“During May, June and July, we asked for all dogs to be on leads within the parkland, due to dog attacks on deer calves, pregnant hinds and sheep. Thank you to all dog walkers who supported this decision and helped protect our animals.
Tatton Park has changed its rules for dog walkers(Image: @pablo_escocker Instagram)
“We have now reviewed this measure and from 1 August 2025, dogs will be allowed off lead in the parkland, but must be kept under close control at all times, particularly around wildlife.”
It said its dog walking policy ‘is reviewed regularly’, adding that ‘additional restrictions may be necessary at certain times of the year’.
Dogs are also now welcome in the park’s gardens and farm – following a relaxation of rules last year – but in those spaces they must be kept on a lead at all times.
The Manchester Evening News has contacted park bosses for further comment.
What do you think about dogs being off lead in parks? Do you agree with the rule being relaxed at Tatton Park? Let us know in the comments here.