Four Paws Dog Park

Four Paws Dog Park sits on the outskirts of Swindon and is exactly what it says on the tin - a proper spot for your dog to burn off some energy without a lead. The setup is straightforward: enclosed space, grass, the usual park furniture. You'll see everything from anxious terriers to massive lurchers having a proper play, which makes for decent people-watching if you're the type who enjoys that sort of thing.

It's clearly designed with local dog owners in mind rather than as a tourism attraction, so don't expect amenities or cafes. Bring water for your dog and maybe a seat if you plan to stay longer than half an hour. The space works best if you've got an afternoon to kill - mornings get busier, evenings quieter.

If you're staying at The Retreat Glamping nearby, this is a handy release valve for any four-legged friends you've brought along. It's close enough for a quick visit without eating into your day. Not somewhere you'd specifically plan a trip around, but genuinely useful if dogs are part of your holiday. The park itself is free, though parking details aren't clear - worth ringing ahead if you're coming from further afield. Most visitors spend forty minutes to an hour here. Definitely brings the quality of a Wiltshire break up a notch if you've got canine company.