Henson Park on Centennial Street in Marrickville is the Newtown Jets’ home ground. Inner West Council sets aside an unfenced off-leash area on the grassy hill on the eastern side, outside the playing field. There are toilets, picnic tables and water on-site. Dogs must be on a leash during Jets games, so check the fixture before you head over.
Henson Park: At a Glance
- The Vibe: A heritage rugby league ground with a red-brick entry gate, a grassy hill beside the clubhouse and floodlights over the oval. It’s an Inner West institution on game days and a local dog spot the rest of the time.
- Best For: Social dogs with reliable recall that want an open grassy run, and owners who can plan around the Jets fixture.
- Off-Leash Hours: Designated area and times only, set by Inner West Council. Dogs must be on a leash during Newtown Jets games and aren’t allowed into the ground for AFLW games. Check the council’s Henson Park dog map for current times.
- Fencing: Unfenced. The off-leash hill is open, so reliable recall is essential.
- Accessibility: The park is wheelchair accessible.
- Parking: Street parking around the ground, which is limited on game days. The Jets charge for parking inside the ground on game days.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Off-Leash Hill: The designated area is the grassy hill on the eastern side of the park, outside the playing field. It’s open on all sides, so it only suits dogs that come back when called.
- Club Training Days: Council allows dogs in the off-leash area during weekly sporting club training.
- Drinking Water: Water is available on-site. Bring a portable bowl, as there’s no dedicated dog station.
- Poo Bags: Poo Bag dispensers are provided on-site. Carry a spare of your own.
- Playground: Dogs aren’t allowed in the playground.
For the Humans
- Public Toilets: Available within the park.
- Picnic Tables: Tables are available for a sit-down during your visit.
- Seating: The grassy bank beside the clubhouse and scoreboard gives you a spot to sit and watch while your dog runs.
- Lighting: The floodlights are for club games and aren’t available for public use, so plan on daylight visits.
Insider Tip: Check the Newtown Jets home fixture before you go. Dogs must be on a leash during Jets games, and the crowds are big. On non-game days, check the council’s Henson Park dog map for the off-leash times, because they’re set by council and not by whether the oval is free.
The Final Verdict
Henson Park gives Marrickville dogs an open grassy hill to run on, with toilets, water, Poo Bags and picnic tables nearby. The off-leash area is unfenced and tied to council times, and game days change the rules, so it suits dogs with solid recall and owners who plan ahead. Check the fixture and the council map, and it’s a handy off-leash spot in the Inner West.
For more official information, visit the Inner West Council website.
Henson Park: FAQ
Q: Is Henson Park a fenced dog park?
A: No. The off-leash area is an unfenced grassy hill, so it only suits dogs with reliable recall.
Q: Can my dog be off-leash at Henson Park at any time?
A: No. Off-leash exercise is allowed only in the designated area and at designated times. Dogs must be on a leash during Newtown Jets games, and they aren’t allowed into the ground for AFLW games. Check the council’s dog map before you go.
Q: Are dogs allowed in the Henson Park playground?
A: No. Dogs aren’t allowed in the playground.
