Carlton Gardens

Carlton Gardens wraps the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum in 26 hectares of lawns, fountains and grand old trees. It is a World Heritage site on the edge of the city, and dogs are welcome as long as they stay on lead.

Leads and the rules

The City of Melbourne keeps the whole of Carlton Gardens on lead. There are no off-lead zones inside the heritage grounds.

The walk

Wide paved and firm gravel paths cross the gardens between formal flower beds, ornamental fountains and towering European and native trees. The surfaces suit walkers and runners alike.

It is a social place, with apartment and terrace locals out on morning and evening strolls.

Water and shade

Drinking taps sit along the main paths and near the pavilion areas, and bins line the perimeter and cross-paths. The big canopy trees keep things cooler in warm weather, and there are toilets near the museum and tennis courts.

Pair it with

Finish with a drink at Caretaker's Cottage, or wander into Fitzroy for The Standard Hotel.

When to go

Mornings and evenings bring out the local dog walkers, which suits dogs used to city bustle. For an off-lead run, plan a dedicated area afterwards, since the gardens stay on lead.