Dog‑Friendly Traditional Countryside Pub With Seasonal Dining in Petworth
The Welldiggers Arms: Your Perfect Base for Scenic Dog Walks in Petworth, West Sussex
Welcome to The Welldiggers Arms, a delightful country inn perfectly nestled in the heart of Petworth, West Sussex. Whether you’re looking to embark on a picturesque dog walk or simply enjoy a relaxing pint, our establishment provides the ideal starting or finishing point. Our inn is proudly dog-friendly, both inside and out.
Start or end your adventure with a hearty Sunday lunch and a refreshing pint of our finest ale, or indulge in lighter bites for those shorter excursion days. And if you’d like to extend your stay, we offer cosy accommodations to make yourself and your canine companion feel right at home.
About Our Dog-Friendly Pub
At The Welldiggers Arms, we warmly welcome furry visitors. Dogs are invited to join their owners in the bar, garden, and designated dining areas. We provide water bowls, treats, and even towels by the door to ensure your pup is comfortable after a muddy adventure. Planning to stay longer? We have dog-friendly rooms available, so you and your four-legged friend can rest easy after a day of exploring.
Walking Routes
Here are some of our favourite dog walks starting from The Welldiggers Arms
1. Welldiggers, Hesworth & Fittleworth Circular
Start/End Point: The Welldiggers Arms, Low Heath, Petworth
Directions: From the pub follow local footpaths and bridleways out toward Hesworth Common and then into the wider woodland around Fittleworth. This circular route winds through peaceful tracks, mixed open countryside and wooded sections before returning to The Welldiggers Arms.
Estimated Time & Difficulty: ~2–3 hours, moderate (some uneven ground).
Highlight: A classic countryside pub-to-pub loop with varied terrain and scenic open views — great for dogs and owners who want a proper country walk with some elevation and variety.
2. Petworth Park Circular
Start/End Point: The Welldiggers Arms
Directions: Head into Petworth Park (a short drive or walk into town). In the park, follow the clearly mapped circular paths around the lawns, ponds and wooded sections of this expansive Capability Brown-designed landscape. Loop back toward the town and return to the pub afterwards.
Estimated Time & Difficulty: ~1½–2 hours, easy.
Highlight: Wide open parkland, ponds, trees and deer sightings make this a scenic riverside and field walk — dogs are welcome but should be kept under control near wildlife, especially deer.
3. Upperton Common & Petworth Park Walk
Start/End Point: The Welldiggers Arms
Directions: Begin with a quieter lane or footpath route to Upperton Common beside Petworth, then pick up paths that lead you into Petworth Park. Follow a circular path through wooded sections, open grassland and gentle slopes before looping back toward Petworth town and The Welldiggers Arms.
Estimated Time & Difficulty: ~1½–2½ hours, moderate.
Highlight: A mix of upland commons, woods and parkland with plenty of space for dogs to explore — some views out over the South Downs National Park add a bonus.
Practical tips for your dog walk
Check local conditions and respect the countryside code.
Keep watch for livestock and stay on marked paths.
Day visitors can use the on-site car park, while staying guests have designated parking.
Stays and Dog-Friendly Rooms
Enjoy a restful retreat in one of our dog-friendly rooms. A small charge applies for canine companions, and booking in advance is recommended. Make a weekend of it with a dog-friendly stay and explore more delightful routes.
Food and Drink
Reward yourself with a sumptuous Sunday lunch as a post-walk treat or choose from our selection of lighter bites and bar snacks for midweek outings. Our menu caters to all appetites, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
Ready to indulge in a weekend of scenic walks and delicious meals? Book a table for Sunday lunch or reserve a dog-friendly room today. We look forward to welcoming you and your furry friend to The Welldiggers Arms!
