Woodlands Park

A duck pond with a landscaped island, towering old trees and flat paved paths make Woodlands Park in Essendon an easy, pretty walk. Dogs are welcome on leash at all times.

Lead rules

Moonee Valley City Council manages the park, and there is no off-lead area inside it. Leads stay on along every path.

The walk

Well-kept concrete paths loop past the pond, open lawns and an aircraft-themed playground, which is busy with families. Birdlife around the wetlands keeps dogs curious.

Mature canopy shades much of the walk. Bins sit around the perimeter and picnic areas, and there is free street parking near Woodland Street and Carnarvon Road.

Pepsi: Dog water is scarce inside the park, so bring a bottle and a travel bowl for the pond lap.

Make a day of it

Friends of Ours Cafe in Essendon North and Matte Black in Essendon are both close for a coffee.

Flat, paved and shaded, it suits older dogs and pram walks. Quiet weekday mornings keep the playground stretch calm.