Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our secure paddocks, training protocols, and countryside safety.
Opening Hours
Summer: 05:00–21:00. The final booking slot is 20:30 to ensure a peaceful night for our resident wildlife. We are open 365 days a year.
Exercise Slots
We offer 50-minute exercise slots. To ensure a safe and quiet experience, we require a mandatory 10-minute car park buffer gap between bookings.
XL Bully Compliance
Our paddocks are fully compliant with DEFRA regulations for XL Bully dogs. We provide a secure, private environment designed for safety and wellbeing.
Facilities
Our facilities include dedicated field parking, flat access, seating areas, and dog waste bins. We provide on-site fresh water for all our guests.
Booking Process
Bookings are managed through our secure online system. We require a deposit to secure your paddock time and full payment at the time of arrival.
How much does it cost to hire Horsham Lake Dog Paddocks?
The cost to hire our secure dog field is £10 per 60 mins for Paddock 1 and £8 for Paddock 2.
Is there a maximum number of dogs I can bring to the field during each hire slot?
There’s a 4 dog limit on the number of dogs allowed in the field at once.
What are your opening hours?
We are open daily from 05:00-20:00 with a last booking time 19:00 during the summer months. Winter opening hours will be shortened due to the reduced daylight hours.
How long is my slot?
1 hour slots with a 10 minute gap between sessions to ensure no overlap with other bookings. For example 50 minutes in the field and 10 minutes to leave.
Can I change my booking if the weather is bad or too hot?
Feel free to reach out if you need to reschedule your appointment. While bookings are non-refundable, you have a one-week window to rebook.
How do I find you?
Horsham Lake Dog Paddocks is located at Horsham Lake, The Lodge, Horsham Lane, Upchurch, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME97AL. Look out for the Upchurch Car garage and turn into it, drive up the drive, past the farm house and follow the signs for the fishing lake and then you will see signs for the dog paddock parking.
Do you have a car park?
Yes, we have parking available a few metres from the dog field gate. There’s space for around 6 cars.
Can I arrive and wait in my car?
We ask that you arrive as close to your booking time as possible to avoid any overlap with the previous booking. Please also ensure you leave promptly to prevent an encounter with other dogs.
Do I need to bring water or dog bowls?
Yes. Bowls are not provided, so please bring your own and remember to take it with you when you leave.
Can I bring food/a picnic?
You’re welcome to bring a picnic or snacks to enjoy while in the field. Please clean up and take all rubbish with you.
Are there any toilets (for humans)?
Yes - The fishing lake toilets can be used.
Can XL Bullies use the paddock?
Yes – as long as they’re legally exempt. Please bring your exemption certificate, and remember: one dog per handler, kept muzzled and on a lead until safely inside the secure paddock.