Do's and don'ts in parks
Your parks are a place for you and others to enjoy the outdoors.
You're welcome to enjoy them in (pretty much) any way you want, however, there are a few rules so we can all enjoy ourselves and remain safe.
Please do...
Horse-riding: you can ride in Whippendell Wood on the perimeter path.
Kite-flying: fly your kites in open areas. Please avoid busy or enclosed spaces such as play areas.
Holding an event: you will need to get permission from the council no matter the size of the event. Download the event application form (PDF 539kB)
Walk your dog: parks are a great place for dogs and their walkers, but please consider other park-users. Please pick up after your dog and keep them on a lead in the nature reserve. Access for dogs into the cafés is as followed: Cha Cha Café (yes) and Daisy's in the Park (no).
Cycle: there are designated cycle paths in Cassiobury Park. To protect Whippendell Wood please only use the perimeter path (link to GIS maps of paths).
Please don't...
Have a BBQ and bonfires these damage parks.
- patches of burned grass that take months to recover and ruin wildlife habitats
- dry ground conditions increase risk of fires getting out of control,
- people tipping burning hot coals into litter bins and setting them on fire.
- nuisance smoke for other park users and fire hazards
Metal detectors: digging to recover any finds is forbidden, as it causes damage to plants and wildlife.
Camping: is not permitted to avoid illegal encampments.
Drones: you cannot fly drones in a park and may face a fine of £500. You can find more information on the Civil Aviation Authority website.
Drive through the park: vehicles are not allowed on the footpaths through parks, unless escorted by a member of the parks team or used by the parks management team.
Gazebos, tents or marquees: these are not permitted in the park unless part of a council event
Dogs: We ask you not to take dogs into the fenced children's play areas, paddling pools and water fountains or onto sports pitches. The park ranger may enforce relevant legislation to cover irresponsible dog ownership and dangerous dogs.
