Wolvesey Castle (Old Bishop's Palace)

Wolvesey Castle is an atmospheric medieval ruin managed by English Heritage, set beside the River Itchen in the heart of Winchester. Once the residence of the Bishops of Winchester, the castle's remaining walls, arches and Great Hall give a tangible sense of its grand 12th-century past. Dogs on leads are welcome in the evidenced public outdoor areas, making it an excellent short stop for history-minded owners exploring the city.

The outdoor grounds are open daily, with uneven stonework and grassed areas that can get muddy after rain. The site is liable to flooding following heavy downpours and may close at short notice, so checking ahead during wet weather is sensible. There's no on-site parking, but Colebrook Street public car park is about five minutes' walk away.

Typical opening hours are 10am to 5pm Monday to Sunday, though seasonal hours may vary. Wolvesey Castle is free to enter and the ruins sit within easy reach of Winchester's cathedral quarter and riverside paths—useful when you're knitting together a dog-friendly day in one of England's most historic cities.