A guide to dog-friendly Bowral, NSW
Dog-friendly Bowral, nestled in the heart of New South Wales’ Southern Highlands, offers a delightful retreat for both you and your canine companion. Whether you’re a pet-loving traveller seeking a trusted pet sitter in Bowral—or a local pet parent looking for reliable care through FurPetVo—there’s plenty to discover in this beautifully scenic town.
Dog parks in Bowral
- Centennial Park (Bowral Dog Park): A fully fenced, off-leash park open 24/7, complete with shaded seating, fresh water stations for dogs, and poo bag dispensers. It’s a popular, safe space for dogs to run, play, and socialise.
Location: 17 Centennial Rd, Bowral NSW 2576 - Cherry Tree Walk: A serene, picturesque walking and biking track lined with 526 cherry trees—planted in honour of Australian soldiers. Dogs are welcome on leash, making it especially magical during spring blossom season.
Location: Bowral NSW 2576 - Retford Park: A National Trust property featuring expansive gardens, historic orchards, and the tranquil Millennium Canal. Leashed dogs are welcome to explore the knot garden and grounds alongside the grand Victorian homestead.
Location: 1325 Old S Rd, Bowral NSW 2576
Dog-friendly restaurants in Bowral
- Royal Hotel: A family-run pub with a relaxed vibe and a spacious, shaded beer garden where dogs are warmly welcomed.
Location: 255 Bong Bong St, Bowral NSW 2576 - Scottish Arms Hotel: A rustic, recently renovated pub offering rare Scottish brews—and a dog-friendly beer garden perfect for sharing a meal with your pup.
Location: 69 Boardman Rd, Bowral NSW 2576 - Centennial Vineyards Restaurant: Set among rolling vineyards, this elegant spot allows dogs in its charming courtyard—ideal for fine dining with your four-legged friend.
Location: 252 Centennial Rd, Bowral NSW 2576
Fun dog-friendly activities in Bowral
- Picnic at Cecil Hoskins Nature Reserve: Located between Bowral and Moss Vale, this peaceful reserve offers leashed bushwalks, birdwatching, and picnic facilities amid wetlands and native bushland. Entry is free, and it’s open 24/7.
Location: Cecil Hoskins, Moss Vale NSW 2577 - Visit the Bradman Oval: Take a leashed stroll around this iconic cricket ground named after Sir Donald Bradman. While dogs aren’t permitted on the pitch, the surrounding parkland is perfect for a gentle, historic walk.
Hours: Daily, 9 am–4 pm
Location: 9/11 St Jude St, Bowral NSW 2576
Dog-friendly walking trails in Bowral
- Gibbergunyah Reserve: A 200-hectare (494-acre) natural haven with shaded bushwalking trails, rocky outcrops, and sweeping views from Ninety Acre Hill Lookout—including sightings of wombats and echidnas. Leashes are required.
Location: Boronia St, Bowral NSW 2576 - Mansfield Reserve: Home to two easy-grade, 1.9 km mown trails—the Wombat and Wallaby tracks—this quiet reserve was once part of the historic Retford Park Estate.
Location: Mansfield Rd, Bowral NSW 2576 - Cecil Hoskins Nature Reserve: A 46-hectare (114-acre) sanctuary known for birdwatching and peaceful open spaces. Dogs must be kept on leash while enjoying picnics or wildlife spotting.
Location: Cecil Hoskins, Moss Vale NSW 2577
Dog-friendly cafes in Bowral
- RAW & WILD Market & Café: A standout café offering outdoor seating for dogs—and even a dedicated pup menu, including dishes like Doggie Organic Beef Pasta.
Location: 250 Bong Bong St, Bowral NSW 2576 - Primary Espresso: A beloved local spot with dog-friendly outdoor seating and complimentary treats for furry guests.
Location: 23 Boolwey St, Bowral NSW 2576 - The Press Shop: A stylish café serving breakfast and lunch, with partially covered outdoor seating ideal for relaxed meals with your dog.
Location: 5/391–397 Bong Bong St, Bowral NSW 2576 - Gumnut Patisserie: Renowned for its artisan pastries and pies, this bakery welcomes dogs to its outdoor area—perfect for sharing a sweet treat.
Location: Shop 7, Grand Arcade, Bong Bong St, Bowral NSW 2576 - Kookabar Café: Nestled near Corbett Gardens, this cosy café provides mats and water bowls for dogs—and makes a lovely post-walk stop.
Location: Suite 3/30 Wingecarribee St, Bowral NSW 2576
Annual dog events in Bowral
Each year, Bowral hosts several community-focused dog events—including the beloved Southern Highlands Dog Festival, held each autumn in Corbett Gardens. This lively, family-friendly celebration features agility demonstrations, pet-friendly stalls, local rescue meet-ups, and fun photo opportunities—all designed to celebrate the human–dog bond. Keep an eye on furpetvo.com for updates on local pet-sitting opportunities during festival season.
