This week at Denbies Wine Estate, the Love Dogs, Love Nature: Rethinking the Future of Dog Walking in the Surrey Hills event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders as part of the ESRC Festival of Social Science 2026.

With dog ownership nearly doubling since 2011, the event focused on understanding how people, dogs, and wildlife can thrive together in the Surrey Hills National Landscape. The Love Dogs, Love Nature project, which commissioned research to inform practical approaches, aims to support nature recovery, responsible countryside access, and sustainable working landscapes.

Sharing Insights Across Communities and Continents

Attendees included researchers, conservationists, farmers, land managers, and dog owners who exchanged perspectives on the benefits of dog walking, its impact on wildlife and livestock, and ways to encourage responsible access to the countryside.

A highlight of the event was a presentation by Dr Jasmin Packer from the University of Adelaide. Her Australian viewpoint revealed that many challenges faced in the Surrey Hills are shared globally, emphasizing the value of learning from different landscapes and experiences.

Partnerships for Practical Solutions

The event underscored the importance of partnership working. By combining research, practical experience, and local knowledge, participants aim to deepen understanding of complex issues and develop solutions that benefit people, dogs, and nature alike.

This event was delivered in partnership with the University of Surrey and Surrey Nature Partnership as part of the broader Love Dogs, Love Nature initiative.

For more information, readers are encouraged to explore the Love Dogs, Love Nature project report, funded by the Surrey Hills National Landscape and published by the Institute for Sustainability, University of Surrey, Surrey Hills National Landscape, and Surrey Nature Partnership.

Stay updated on ongoing projects by following Surrey Hills National Landscape on social media.

Source: Surrey Hills National Landscape news