Case Study : National Trust “Dogs Welcome” Project – Lyme, Cheshire
A Positive Approach to Dog Management
The National Trust’s “Dogs Welcome” approach aims to improve experiences for dog walkers while protecting sensitive habitats, wildlife and livestock. It focuses on positive engagement, clear messaging and access management, rather than relying on enforcement alone
Lyme as a Leading Example
At Lyme, this approach is brought to life through the “Canine Code”, supported by practical site management and dog-friendly infrastructure. The project shows how busy, environmentally sensitive sites can successfully balance public access with conservation.
The “Canine Code”
At the heart of the project is the “Canine Code”, a simple set of behavioural messages encouraging visitors to keep dogs under control, pick up waste, follow signage and respect wildlife, livestock and others. The tone is positive and inclusive, helping to normalise responsible behaviour, including lead use near sensitive habitats.
Managing Access on the Ground
The code is reinforced through practical measures. Dogs are allowed across most of the estate, but different rules apply depending on sensitivity and season. These include off-lead areas, seasonal restrictions and short-lead requirements near livestock, deer and busy areas, with clear signage explaining the reasons.
Consistent Visitor Messaging
A key strength at Lyme is the consistent use of messaging across the visitor journey. Rather than relying on enforcement, responsible dog walking is promoted as a shared and expected behaviour.
Communication and Facilities
Messages are delivered through websites, arrival signage, waymarking, staff interactions and social media. Supporting features such as dog water stations, dog-friendly routes and waste facilities reinforce the welcoming approach while explaining the need to protect wildlife.
Similar principles are used on the Sefton Coast through the “Paws for Thought” campaign. This encourages responsible behaviour through a voluntary pledge promoting control of dogs, staying on paths and properly disposing of waste.
Community Engagement in Practice
On the Sefton Coast, local initiatives such as the “Coastal Dog Ranger” scheme encourage community involvement. This helps reinforce positive behaviours through engagement and ongoing messaging rather than enforcement.
Key Lessons
The Lyme and Sefton Coast examples show how clear communication, positive messaging and targeted zoning can reduce recreational impacts. Both highlight the value of encouraging voluntary behaviour change to support conservation while maintaining access.