Princes Park Dog Off Leash Area (North)

The northern off-leash area of Princes Park is a large, unfenced stretch of open grass on the Park Street side of the park, giving Carlton North dogs plenty of room to run without the constraints of a boundary fence.

The rules. Dogs can be off-leash within the designated area at any time, provided they are under effective voice control. Leashes go back on for the paths around the park, including the running track that circles the ovals, and within 20 metres of playgrounds or barbecue areas. Dogs are not permitted on the ovals while organised sport or training is underway. Registration and vaccination are expected, as with any Melbourne off-leash reserve.

What's there. Waste bins are placed around the perimeter and a water fountain with a pet bowl is generally available near the pavilion. There are park benches scattered through the area, and scattered mature trees give patchy shade rather than full cover. Lighting is limited, so this one is better suited to daylight visits.

Getting there. Access is off Royal Parade or Park Street, and street parking on Park Street and the surrounding residential streets is usually straightforward to find. The number 19 tram runs along Royal Parade with stops an easy walk away, and the area is well within walking distance of Carlton North, Parkville and Brunswick.

Nearby with the dogs. Cafes along Lygon Street in Carlton North and Sydney Road in Brunswick generally have dog-friendly outdoor seating, and there are pet-friendly Airbnbs and boutique stays scattered through both suburbs.

Weekend mornings and weekday evenings from about 4.30pm to 6.30pm are the busiest windows. Weekday mornings are quieter, and the lower sections can turn muddy after heavy rain, so factor that into what you wear.

Sources

• Parks, reserves and playgrounds - Yarra City Council · yarracity.vic.gov.au

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