Dog Policy

Dog-Friendly Guide & Policy

We love welcoming well-behaved dogs at Bents. Plan your visit with our map, see dog-friendly dining, explore Windy Bank Wood, and read the key guidelines below.

Where dogs can & can’t go

Dogs are welcome across selected areas of the centre. Please keep dogs on a lead at all times. Assistance dogs are welcome throughout.

Where dogs can accompany you

  • The Pet Place (shop, Prestige Paws grooming & Pet Café)
  • Undercover Plant Area & Outdoor Spaces
  • Outdoor Dining Areas (Tapas, Lakeside and Decking), our Winter Food Market (seasonal), and Winter Food Market Globes (seasonal, booking required)
  • Lakeside Stroll & Covered Walkway
  • Trespass | Nevisport
  • Lakeland

Fresh water stations are located throughout dog-friendly areas. Please use bins provided.

Where dogs are not permitted (in-centre)

  • Main store indoor shopping areas — assistance dogs only
  • Indoor dining areas (restaurants & counters) — assistance dogs only

Within otherwise dog-friendly zones

  • Undercover Beach — no dogs.
  • Outdoor Children’s Adventure Play Area — no dogs.

Dog-Friendly Map

Refer to the paw icons on the map for dog-friendly zones. For any temporary changes, please follow in-centre signage.

Bents in-centre map showing dog-friendly areas

Dining with Dogs

We warmly welcome well-behaved dogs in several dining areas. Please check local signage for dog-accessible seating.

Customer with dog choosing treats at The Pet Café counter

The Pet Café

Pupcakes for them and coffee for you. Water bowls available on request.

Outside dining areas with customers and dogs

Outside Dining Areas

Relax al fresco with your four-legged friend in our outdoor seating zones.

Tapas Bar marquee in the undercover plant area

Tapas Bar Marquee

Located in our undercover plant area and welcoming to dogs.

Alfresco terrace serving fish & chips and pizzas

Alfresco ‘Undercover’ Terrace

Serving made-to-order fish & chips and artisan pizzas.

Family dining with their dog at The Pet Café

Tip: Busy times can be noisy for pets. Consider quieter hours for a calmer visit.

  • Keep dogs close to your table and on a short lead.
  • Do not allow dogs on chairs or tables.
  • Please ask a colleague if you need a water bowl.

Shopping for Pets — The Pet Place

From gourmet treats to comfy beds, explore our pet-friendly ranges. There’s a far larger selection available to browse and purchase in-store at The Pet Place.

Assortment of dog treats on shelves

Treats & Chews

Reward good behaviour with delicious, vet-approved options.

Prefer to shop in person? Visit The Pet Place at Bents for expert advice and our full in-store range. Plan your visit
Dog on woodland trail

Outdoor Adventures — Windy Bank Wood

The 5K Windy Bank Wood trail to the rear of the centre is a great place for exercise. Off-lead walking is suitable where safe and permitted — please respect signage and wildlife.

  • Cleaning station located outside The Pet Place and café for muddy paws.
  • Use bins provided; help keep the trail pristine.
  • Check weather/ground conditions before setting off.

Grooming & On-Site Services

Make it a full dog day out at Bents.

Prestige Paws grooming and styling lounge

Prestige Paws Grooming

Professional grooming with gentle care. Book ahead where possible.

Dog relaxing beside water bowl at Bents

Water & Cleaning Stations

Water bowls and cleaning points are located around site.

Dog-friendly event activity at Bents

Events for Pets

Keep an eye on seasonal activities and workshops for dog lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common queries before you visit.

Are there leash requirements?

Yes. For everyone’s comfort and safety, dogs must remain on lead at all times while on site, except where trail signage indicates otherwise.

Which areas are off-limits to dogs?

Main store indoor shopping areas and indoor dining areas (assistance dogs only). Undercover Beach and the outdoor Children’s Adventure Play Area are also dog-free zones within otherwise dog-friendly areas.

Are there any breed restrictions?

All friendly, well-behaved breeds are welcome. Management may ask any dog exhibiting unsafe behaviour to leave.

Do you provide water bowls?

Yes, water bowls are available at The Pet Café and other water points. Ask a colleague if you need assistance.

Can assistance dogs access all areas?

Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the centre. If you need any adjustments, please speak to a colleague.

Treat Your Furry Friend Today!

Explore our range of pet products — from gourmet treats to cosy beds. Visit The Pet Place in-store or shop online.

Last updated: . Policies may change during events — please follow in-centre signage.