Citizens Park Recreation Reserve

Citizens Park is Richmond's largest park, sitting between Church Street, Highett Street and Gleadell Street. Its central sports oval doubles as off-leash space when no game or training is on, and there is a fenced off-leash area too, which makes it one of the more flexible options in the suburb for a proper run.

The rules. Dogs are off-leash on the oval only when it is not booked for sport or training, so check before you let them off. Stay on-leash within 10 metres of the playground and within 10 metres of the sporting ground during events and training. Dogs are not allowed in the playground at all. Give any temporary fencing (turf repair) a wide berth, and clean up after your dog.

What's there. A fenced off-leash section, dog drinking water, public toilets near the playground, shaded benches and BBQ areas. Bags and bins are provided. Accessible entrances and parking are available.

Getting there. Free street parking on the surrounding streets (Highett, Gleadell). The Route 30 tram stops on Church Street, and it is a short walk from East Richmond or Richmond Station.

Nearby with the dogs. Bridge Road and Swan Street have plenty of dog-friendly outdoor cafe seating a few blocks away, and The National Hotel on Victoria Street welcomes dogs in its beer garden.

Weekday mornings and weekday evenings (outside training) are quietest. Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons are the busiest, so pick a weekday if your dog prefers fewer companions.

Sources

• Citizens Park | Yarra City Council · yarracity.vic.gov.au
• 12 of Melbourne's Best Off-Leash Dog Parks and Beaches · broadsheet.com.au

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