Princes Park Dog Off Leash Area (South)

The southern off-leash section of Princes Park runs along the Royal Parade side, between the tennis club and Bowen Crescent, and offers open grass with mature trees for shade in a spot that's central to both Carlton North and Parkville.

The rules. This is a designated off-leash area, but dogs must be under control at all times and ideally under voice command. Leashes are required within 20 metres of playgrounds, permanent barbecue or picnic areas, and active sports fields, and also near the park's water features such as the pond and fountains. Dogs are not permitted inside the fenced Trin Warren Tam-boore wetlands over in Royal Park.

What's there. A water tap with a dog bowl sits at the eastern end of the area, waste bins are provided, and there's a mix of shaded and unshaded benches. A paved path runs through parts of the park, marking the line between the off-leash and on-leash zones. Public toilets are nearby, to the west of the main pond.

Getting there. The area sits off Royal Parade and Bowen Crescent. Metered parking is available on Royal Parade and side streets like Bowen Crescent and Princes Street, though it can fill up. The number 19 tram runs along Royal Parade, and the park is an easy walk from Carlton North.

Weekends and weekday evenings after 5pm are the busiest times. Early mornings before 8am and mid-week lunchtimes are calmer. If this section feels crowded, the larger northern off-leash area of Princes Park is a short walk away and gives dogs more room to spread out.

Sources

• Walking your dog | City of Melbourne · melbourne.vic.gov.au

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