Chelsworth Park Dog Off Leash Area on Irvine Road in Ivanhoe is the “Professional’s Choice” for dog walking. Situated on the Yarra River floodplain, it offers elite-level turf maintained by Ivanhoe Grammar, but access is strictly a time-share arrangement with school sports.
Chelsworth Park: At a Glance
- ⛳ The Vibe: Elite turf. It feels manicured, premium, and spacious.
- 🐕 Best For: Dogs who love a mud-free run on high-quality grass.
- Off-Leash Hours: Conditional. Prohibited during school sports (Sat AM & Weekday PM).
- Fencing: Unfenced. Borders the Yarra River and bushland.
- 🅿️ Parking: Onsite car park available.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Superior Surface: The grass here is better than almost any other park in the region, staying green and mud-free.
- River Walk: The perimeter trail along the Yarra is scenic, but be aware of snakes in the bushland during summer.
- Water: Drinking water is available for dogs.
For the Humans
- High Amenity: Features free poop bags (a rare luxury!), bins, and water fountains.
- No Playground: This is a pure adult/dog recreation zone, not a family hub.
- Toilets: There are no public toilets accessible for general park users (pavilions are locked).
Insider Tip: Check the sports schedule. On Saturday mornings and some weekday afternoons, the park acts as a private school campus. If the boys are playing cricket or football, the off-leash privilege is suspended.
The Final Verdict
Chelsworth Park offers the best grass in Banyule. If you want a premium surface for your dog, this is it. But the lack of fencing near the river and the restricted hours mean it requires a responsible owner who pays attention to the rules.
For usage conditions, visit the Banyule City Council website.
Chelsworth Park: FAQ
Q: Is the park fenced?
A: No, it is unfenced and borders the Yarra River.
Q: Are there toilets?
A: No public toilets are generally available.
Q: Can dogs go off-leash anytime?
A: No. Off-leash is prohibited during organized school sports.
