Our Favourite South West London Dog Walking Spots!

South West London is basically dog paradise disguised as expensive postcodes. After countless adventures with Meatball (and the occasional dramatic rescue from muddy ponds), here are our absolute favourite spots for proper dog walks.

Why we love it: It's massive, it's got deer (which will send your dog into absolute chaos), and the views are properly stunning. Plus, there's something quite magical about watching your dog completely ignore your calls while a herd of deer watches judgmentally from a distance.

Top tip: Early morning visits mean fewer crowds and more chance of spotting the deer. Just remember—dogs must be on leads during deer season (May-July and September-February).

Parking: Plenty of car parks, but they fill up fast on weekends.

Why it's brilliant: Feels like proper countryside without leaving Zone 4. Miles of heathland, woodland, and that slightly wild feeling that makes you forget you're still technically in London.

Perfect for: Dogs who like to explore and owners who don't mind getting a bit muddy. The windmill's lovely, but your dog will be more interested in the million different smells.

Watch out for: It's easy to get turned around—even locals sometimes end up taking the scenic route home.

Why dogs love it: The dog area by the river is like a canine social club. Your shy pup will either make 20 new friends or hide behind your legs—there's no middle ground.

Bonus points: Brilliant views of the Thames, and you can grab a proper coffee afterwards. Plus, it's right next to the Dogs Trust if you fancy torturing yourself by looking at more adorable dogs you can't take home.

Why it's underrated: Less crowded than the famous spots, but still plenty of space for a proper run about. The playground area means kids and dogs can tire themselves out simultaneously—genius.

Local secret: The café does excellent bacon sandwiches, and they're surprisingly dog-friendly.

Why we keep coming back: Connects to Wimbledon Common, so you can really go for it if you're feeling ambitious. Proper woodland walks that make you feel like you're miles from civilisation.

Reality check: You'll probably encounter at least three other people with the exact same idea, but there's enough space for everyone.

Always carry poo bags (obviously), water for both of you, and maybe a towel if your dog's the type to find the one muddy puddle in a drought.

Most importantly, these spots are brilliant for letting your dog be a dog—sniffing everything, meeting friends, and occasionally doing that weird thing where they suddenly sprint in circles for no apparent reason.

Just remember to keep your Meatball tag visible—you never know when your adventurous pup might decide to explore a bit too enthusiastically!