THEY were all ears for a new city centre experience.

Dogs and their owners were lapping up historical facts when they met in a Southampton park.

The first monthly ‘dog walk’ was dreamt up by the expert tour guides at See Southampton.

The event saw local history buffs set off for a tour around the city’s parks – stopping off at points of historical interest along the way.

And finishing off at a Town Quay pub for a slice of cake – and a doggy biscuit – there was an emphasis on the social side as well.

Walkers were encouraged to get to know each other and make time for a chat while they learnt about the history of their city.

Guide Katie Santos, who came up with the idea said: “You don’t have to have a dog to come along. It’s for the community and for people to get to know each other.”

As well as the dog walk See Southampton has put together a series of events aimed at highlighting the city’s boozy history.

The monthly tours are open to the public and end with a visit to the Dancing Man pub located in the 14th century Wool House building on Town Quay.

They include a romance themed walk on February 12 entitled “Vaults, Vino and Valentines which includes a visit to the city’s mediaeval vaults followed by wine tasting.

You can learn about Genoese Southampton on March 12 followed by an evening of Italian wines.

“Vaults, Vino and Surprise Easter eggs’ will take you round medieval Southampton, followed by wines chosen by the Dancing Man’s sommelier on April 9.

The walks are unsuitable for people with walking difficulties or who are prone to claustrophobia or acrophobia. Wheelchairs and prams are also not appropriate. Suitable footwear is recommended. There is an age restriction of 18 years old and above only.

The walks will be lead by a qualified Southampton Green Badge guide.

The dog walks start from the fountain outside City Art Gallery and take around an hour, excluding the cake stop.