Moore's Paws
Taunton
Somerset · Somerset · Dog Park Guide 2025
Dog Parks in Taunton
Taunton is county town of Somerset on the River Tone in the Vale of Taunton Deane. This guide covers the best places to walk your dog near Taunton - from council parks and recreation grounds to the spectacular countryside on the doorstep.
Dog Walking in Taunton at a glance
Vivary Park (enclosed dog area), French Weir Park, St James's Street rec. Vivary Park has a dedicated fenced dog exercise area - free to use. French Weir Park by the river is popular with dogs. The Blackdown Hills AONB is a short drive with footpaths and access land
What dog walking is like near Taunton
Taunton sits in the heart of Somerset - county town of Somerset on the River Tone in the Vale of Taunton Deane. For dog owners this is excellent news: most of the region qualifies as open access land where dogs are permitted, giving you access to a much wider variety of terrain than you'd typically find in lowland England.
Within the town itself, vivary park (enclosed dog area), french weir park, st james's street rec. These complement the wider countryside perfectly - use the town parks for a quick weekday walk and the countryside for longer weekend adventures.
Open access land near Taunton
Vivary Park has a dedicated fenced dog exercise area - free to use. French Weir Park by the river is popular with dogs. The Blackdown Hills AONB is a short drive with footpaths and access land Under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, dogs are permitted on open access land (mapped as open land on OS Explorer maps) but must be kept on a short lead near livestock from 1 March to 31 July or when young animals are present. Always use the OS Maps app to identify access land before you set off.
Taunton dog parks in our directory
Verified listings - click any park for facilities, conditions and directions.
Five Acres Dog Field
Taunton
Release the Hounds
Taunton
Houndsville
Taunton
Dukes Paddock
Taunton
K9 Rec
Taunton
Fitzroy Paddock
Taunton
Taunton Dog Park
Taunton
Tips for dog walking near Taunton
Download the OS Maps app before heading into the Somerset countryside. It shows open access land boundaries, public rights of way, and livestock grazing fields - essential for planning safe off-lead walks.
Livestock is common near Taunton. Always put your dog on a short lead when approaching or passing sheep, cattle, or horses - even if your dog is generally well behaved with animals.
Carry water for your dog on longer countryside walks - natural streams exist but water quality can vary. Many rural pubs and cafés near Taunton are dog-friendly and happy to provide a bowl of water.
Parking near popular countryside spots around Taunton can be limited on summer weekends. Arrive early or use local Pay & Display car parks in the town itself and walk out to the countryside from there.