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Dog-friendly cottages in Mid Sussex and the South Downs

This is Ted’s home patch. Inland West Sussex has the South Downs, deer parks and miles of woodland and farmland paths, and dogs are welcome all year. Just remember the livestock.

Dog rules last checked October 2026.

Dog-friendly cottages in Mid Sussex and the South Downs

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We’re adding hand-checked dog-friendly cottages in Mid Sussex and the South Downs. Each listing shows how many dogs are allowed, the dog fee, whether the garden is enclosed and the nearest dog-friendly walk. In the meantime, search dog-friendly cottages in West Sussex.

Walks and days out with your dog

  • Devil’s Dyke, north of Brighton, is the longest, deepest and widest dry valley in the UK. The National Trust welcomes dogs everywhere on the downs here, but asks for leads near the sheep, cattle and grazing ponies.
  • Petworth Park has 700 acres of parkland with a herd of fallow deer. Dogs can be off the lead in the deer park if closely supervised, but should be on a lead in June and July when the fawns are born. Dogs on short leads are welcome in the Pleasure Garden, but only assistance dogs can go in the house.
  • The South Downs Way crosses the county along the top of the downs, with big views on both sides. Expect sheep and cattle on the open hillsides, so carry a lead.
  • Ted’s tip: after rain the chalk paths get very slippery and the Weald below gets very muddy, so pack a towel for the car.

Where to stop for a pint

Mid Sussex is Ted’s pub patch. See Ted’s top 10 dog-friendly pubs in Sussex, from the White Harte in Cuckfield to the Bull in Ditchling, with which ones have open fires and treats at the bar.

Questions about Mid Sussex and the South Downs with a dog

Are dogs allowed at Devil’s Dyke?

Yes. The National Trust welcomes dogs everywhere on the South Downs at Devil’s Dyke. Keep them under close control and on a lead near livestock.

Can dogs go off the lead at Petworth Park?

Yes, in the deer park, if they are closely supervised. Keep them on a lead in June and July during fawn season, and on a short lead in the Pleasure Garden.

Is the South Downs good for a holiday with a dog?

Yes. There are no beach rules to check, and the downs, parks and woods are open to dogs all year. The main thing to watch for is livestock on the open hills.

Official rules

Rules are set by the council or landowner and can change. Check the latest at National Trust, Devil’s Dyke and National Trust, Petworth with your dog before you go, and always follow the signs.