South Bank via Clem Jones Promenade

South Bank via Clem Jones Promenade is a paved riverfront walk through South Bank Parklands in South Brisbane, running alongside the Brisbane River with the CBD skyline as backdrop. The one thing to know before you go: despite the beach, lagoons and fountains here, none of them are open to dogs, so this is a walking and sightseeing outing rather than a swimming one.

The walk. This is a 3.9 km out and back including the Arbour, graded easy at 1 of 5, and takes about 45 to 60 minutes. The surface is fully paved, mostly concrete, and flat the whole way, with grassed stretches such as Riverside Green running alongside. It is a busy, bustling urban walk that suits dogs of any size or energy level. If the crowds get heavy, the Rainforest Walk runs parallel to the main promenade and is the quieter alternative.

The rules. Dogs must be on a lead at all times, under effective control and without causing noise disturbance. Dogs are prohibited from Streets Beach, the swimming pools, the streams, the fountains and the shower areas, and they are not permitted in the designated dining areas. Dogs are excluded from the parklands during major events. Accredited assistance dogs are welcome throughout. Free waste bags sit at dispensers at the parkland entry points, with bins throughout. Full detail comes from the land manager, South Bank Corporation.

Water. This is the main disappointment to flag honestly. For a riverfront walk with a beach and lagoons on show, there is nowhere here a dog may actually swim, since Streets Beach and every pool, stream and fountain is closed to dogs. There are three water bubblers with dedicated dog bowls, at the Arbour near the front of The Ship Inn, at Riverside Green, and at the Cultural Forecourt, so your dog can still drink well along the way.

Hazards. High-speed e-scooters and cyclists share the promenade, and it gets very packed at peak times, so keep a firm hold on the lead in crowded sections.

Getting there. The parklands sit on Clem Jones Promenade, South Brisbane. South Brisbane Station and South Bank Station both adjoin the parklands, and CityCat ferry terminals sit right on the promenade. Paid parking is available at the South Bank Car Park, entered from Vulture Street or Grey Street.

Nearby with the dogs. Extend the outing across the river on the Neville Bonner Bridge and Kangaroo Point Bridge Loop, or follow the Bicentennial Bikeway further along the river. For a proper off-lead run, head to Orleigh Dog Park in West End, and stop afterwards at The Plough Inn or The Raven Hotel.

When to go. Weekday mornings before 9am are quietest and coolest, while Friday evenings, Saturday afternoons and evenings, and Sunday mornings draw the biggest crowds. Good for seniors.

Sources

• South Bank parkland information, South Bank Corporation · visit.brisbane.qld.au

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