09-07-2025
The bizarre UK ‘Disneyland for dogs' with splash park, attractions and treasure trails
THE UK is home to an unusual theme park with a splash park and treasure trails... but it is all for dogs.
Ross & Friends Experience in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, is the UK's largest enclosed dog park.
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But unlike your ordinary gated green patch of grass, Ross & Friends is home to a wealth of doggy activities for your beloved furry friend.
In the shared play space - which spans across 35acres - there are numerous activities for dogs including hidden toys, trails and even a pool for them to splash in.
A map of the attraction shows many different 'lands' including an adventure land and 'sniffari'.
Also, opening soon is the 'Itty-Bitty Playland'.
Away from the main 'safari', there are 'invisible' spaces for more reactive dogs or those who perhaps are a little more nervous.
One 'invisible' space is the 'Fairytail Forest' with a climbing castle and sandpit for pooches to explore.
Or you and your four-legged friend could head to the 'Water Woodland' with a splash creek and large pond, where dogs can swim.
In these areas you can even get café 'Room Service ' - where snacks and toys can be delivered directly to you.
If your dog happens to get a bit mucky during their playtime, there are also showers you can use.
And then if you want a refreshment yourself, there is a small cafe too.
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One recent visitor commented: "The little village area when you first arrive is full of amazing treats and toys for dogs and great food and coffee for humans too.
"Truly Disneyland for doggos!"
Another added: "It's as if someone designed a holiday resort for dogs."
One hour sessions in the Safari Park cost £11.50.
The doggy attraction is found just outside of the historic town of Berkhamsted.
Located 26miles from London, the town is home to multiple shops, pubs and cafes to explore and also the British Film Institute's BFI National Archive - which is one of the world's largest film and television archives.
You can also explore the remains of Berkhamsted Castle, which was originally built as a motte-and-bailey castle.
And for a spot of human indulgence, Champneys Tring - Britain's original health spa - is just down the road.
Stay at the stately Champney's hotel surrounded by beautiful Hertfordshire countryside
A SUN reporter stayed at Champney's Hotel Tring and this is what they thought.
WHAT'S IT LIKE?
A relaxing mix of stately home and stylish boutique hotel, surrounded by beautiful countryside.
The old stately home has undergone huge renovations to become a spa resort with the focus on creating a relaxing atmosphere for guests.
ROOMS ANY GOOD?
Very much so, with themes and prices to suit all. The decor is in keeping with tradition.
Our room was very spacious for two people, with lovely views over the countryside.
Heaps of rural charm with lovely home comfort touches including complimentary bottles of water, bath products, robes, TV and free wifi.
EAT THERE OR GRAB A PIZZA?
Don't venture out.
The restaurant serves everything from healthy salads and fish – which are marked out as low-calorie options on the menu – through to luxuries such as steak and roast lamb.
There is also a lounge to venture on to with a glass of wine or a cup of tea, and at weekends a pianist plays you to sleep before you head back to your room.
WHAT ELSE?
The spa facilities are second to none.
Multiple pools, an outdoor jacuzzi, steam and sauna rooms, indoor hydrotherapy pools and relaxation rooms with dimmed lighting and water beds.
Also, if you're into fitness, there is a brand new cycle studio and urban gym.
SO YOU'D GO BACK?
Yes. If you're looking for a getaway where you don't have to leave the hotel to enjoy yourself.
The staff are incredibly friendly and you can't possibly leave without feeling much more relaxed than before.
There are a number of UK islands, cities and hotels where your dog is more welcome than you … and can even join you at the dinner table.
Plus, there is a golden retriever experience in Somerset that lets you spend the night with 30 cute dogs.
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