Canterbury Gardens Oval

Canterbury Gardens Oval is a tree-lined reserve off Mountain Highway, off-leash on the main oval with a 280-metre track circling it so you can walk while your dog plays. It is unfenced, and unlike most local ovals it carries specific on-leash windows tied to school hours, so the rules are worth reading before you go.

The rules. Off-leash on the oval outside the restricted times. On school days dogs must be on-leash between 8am and 10am and again between 3pm and 4:30pm. Dogs also stay on-leash on all shared paths and within 15 metres of playgrounds, BBQ and picnic facilities, or active sport. The oval is unfenced, so carry a lead and rely on solid recall.

What's there. The open grass oval, the 280-metre perimeter track, a fenced wheelchair-accessible playground, shaded tables with BBQs, and outdoor fitness equipment. Parking is off Allambanan Drive.

Getting there. On Mountain Highway (B360), with parking via Allambanan Drive. Several bus routes run along Mountain Highway.

When to go. The oval is busiest, and on-leash, during the school-day windows. Mid-morning, mid-afternoon and weekends give the most open space, which suits nervous dogs who want room.

Sources

• Canterbury Gardens | Maroondah City Council · maroondah.vic.gov.au
• Maroondah Council Dog Off Leash Areas · melbourneplaygrounds.com.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.