Petworth – worth a visit with yyour pet!
Barge Beagle – sniffing out good finds for crews with canines
PETWORTHHouse andDeer Park, West Sussex, was once the home of George Wyndham, third Earl l of Egremont ( 175 511837), a canal enthusiast usiast responsible for many local waterways including the Rother Navigation and Petworth Canal.
Egremont was also a patron of the arts anda friendofJMWTurnerwhofrequently stayed at Petworth. He was inspired to paint several views of the grounds and of the nearby canals, some of which are on display within Petworth House.
Walking in the extensive 700-acre park, considered one of the finest surviving examples of an English landscape designed by Lancelot Capability Brown, in the footsteps of one of our canal pioneers, is a magical experience. Spaniels were Egremont’s favourite breed of dog, one is even featured in the Earl’s portrait and it is easy to imaginea his beloved dogs s accompanying him m as he rode out on o horseback each day d to inspect the grounds of his estate.
No doubt there were w just as many en nticing scents back then n tokeepdog noses twitching twitch as there are now. Barge Beagle was certainly kept busy – he hardly lifted his nose from the ground until he reached one of the highest points when he stopped to lift his head and take in the wonderful views across the lakes and on to the rolling South Downs beyond.
The grassy walkways (or rides) meandering through the deer park are pleasantandprovideavarietyofdifferent routes. While dogs are permitted off-lead, they must be kept under close supervision and not permitted to disturb the deer. Barge Beagle found the rough ground littered with tuffets, bordering the pathways, offered plenty of entertainment and great fun to frolic in and around – plenty of exercise to be had even on-lead.
Autumnand winter areagreat time to visit. When the deer are rutting, the clattering of antlers echoes across the gently rolling landscape and ornamental lakes. The trees are spectacular and include oak, beech and aspen, some of which are almost 1000 years old. Sweet chestnut trees are plentiful – a word of warning though, guide your dog away fromspikey cases of fallen fruit as these are not paw friendly.
While the deer park is free to explore, there is a charge for car parking. From Petworth Housewalk through the cattle tunnel to visit the town with its cobbled streets, plentiful antiques shops, St Mary’s Church (containing a sculpture of Egremont) and good choice of cafes and pubs.