Doggy Retreat

The name alone will make dog owners perk up. Doggy Retreat, near Chichester in Sussex, is exactly what it sounds like - a purpose-built haven for dogs and their people. The site itself is fairly low-key; you're not walking into some theme park affair, but rather something genuinely designed around canine comfort and exercise. There's space for dogs to run properly, which is the whole point.

For families with dogs, this beats a standard walk hands down. Kids see their pets genuinely happy and exhausted in all the right ways, and parents get a proper break knowing the space is secure and other visitors understand the chaos of multiple excited dogs. It's not a spectator sport - you'll be actively involved, not just turning up and watching. Plan on two to three hours if you want to make the most of it.

The nearest town, Chichester, is close enough that you could base yourself at one of the surrounding caravan parks and make this part of a broader holiday. Bow Hill Farm and Stubcroft Farm Campsite are both excellent options within five miles, both rated five stars, which matters if you're staying with a dog. Chichester Lakeside Holiday Park sits a touch further out but gives you more facilities if you need them.

Go midweek if you can - weekends draw crowds and dogs don't always appreciate the chaos. Admission details are thin on the ground, so ring ahead before you visit. Worth the detour if you've got a dog that needs proper space to run.