Frenchs Forest Showground

The lead. Frenchs Forest Showground on Glen Street is one of the Northern Beaches' better fenced off-leash parks: a large, fully enclosed dog area open 24 hours, plus a separate fenced pen for shy or small dogs. If you want a secure spot where a bolter can't reach a road, this is the reason to come.

The rules. The off-leash area is fenced and available 24/7, but dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting the zone. Effective control applies inside: dogs stay in sight and come back on command. A maximum of four dogs per person, and dogs must be registered and vaccinated. Clean up after your dog; free bags and bins are provided. Note the playground and sports fields alongside are on-leash only.

What's there. Fully fenced, secure boundaries, seating, and a good supply of waste bags and bins. The main area is lit until roughly 9:30pm, so evening runs work through winter. The adjoining Lionel Watts sportsground has toilets and a playground if you have kids in tow.

Getting there. Glen Street, Frenchs Forest, next to the Glen Street Theatre. There's an on-site car park with access off Blackbutts Road and Glen Street, and local bus routes run along Glen Street and nearby Warringah Road.

When to go. Busiest early mornings (6-8am) and late afternoons (4-7pm), especially weekends. Mid-morning and mid-afternoon on weekdays give you the most room. If your dog finds the main area too boisterous, the separate small-dog pen is the quieter option. Good for confident social dogs and for nervous ones who need a calmer space next door.

Sources

• Frenchs Forest Showground including Dog Off-leash Area · northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
• Dogs and Dog Off-leash Areas | Northern Beaches Council · northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
• Dogs | Northern Beaches Council · northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

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