Dog-Friendly Walks UK: The Complete Guide

Walking with a dog transforms any trail into an adventure. Their infectious enthusiasm for new smells, their excitement at every corner and their pure joy in simply being outdoors reminds us why we fell in love with exploring in the first place. The UK offers some of the finest walking in the world, and much of it welcomes dogs with open arms.

I've walked hundreds of miles across Britain with Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly. From gentle lakeside strolls to challenging mountain ascents, from ancient woodland to dramatic coastlines, walking together has taken us to some of the most beautiful corners of the country. Whether you're planning a dog-friendly holiday centred around walking or simply looking for new routes near home, this guide covers the very best the UK has to offer.

From long-distance National Trails to family-friendly forest walks, this is your complete guide to exploring Britain on foot with your four-legged companion.

Best Regions for Dog Walking

Lake District

The Lake District is world-famous for its walking, and most of it welcomes dogs. From gentle lakeside paths to challenging fell climbs, there's something for every ability.

Classic Walks:

Catbells and Derwentwater Loop One of the Lake District's most popular dog-friendly walks, offering panoramic views across Derwentwater. The paths are well-maintained and clearly marked, though it can get busy. Start early for the best experience. Distance: approximately 5 miles. Difficulty: moderate with some steep sections.

Loughrigg Fell and Rydal Cave A perfect introduction to the Lakes, this walk rewards with stunning views and the atmospheric Rydal Cave. The terrain suits most dogs, with opportunities for swimming in Rydal Water. Distance: 4 miles. Difficulty: moderate.

Tarn Hows Circular An accessible, mostly flat walk around one of the Lake District's most photographed locations. The made paths suit all abilities, and dogs can enjoy the woodland and water. Distance: 1.5 miles. Difficulty: easy.

Coniston Water East Shore A beautiful lakeside walk through woodland with opportunities for your dog to swim. Connects to the Coppermines Valley for longer adventures. Distance: variable. Difficulty: easy to moderate.

Peak District

The Peak District offers diverse walking across moorland, dales and gritstone edges. Its central location makes it accessible from much of England.

Classic Walks:

Dovedale Stepping Stones A favourite dog-friendly destination, the walk from Ilam Park to the River Dove at Thorpe Cloud offers stunning limestone scenery. The stepping stones provide a fun crossing point. Distance: 3 miles return. Difficulty: easy.

Mam Tor and the Great Ridge One of the Peak District's most iconic walks, following the ridge between Mam Tor and Losehill. Spectacular views reward the climb, though dogs must be on leads due to livestock. Distance: 5 miles. Difficulty: moderate with steep sections.

Monsal Trail A traffic-free former railway line running through the heart of the White Peak. Perfect for relaxed walking with dogs on a well-surfaced path passing through tunnels and over viaducts. Distance: up to 8.5 miles. Difficulty: easy.

Tissington Trail Another former railway line offering easy, scenic walking through the limestone plateau. Connects to the High Peak Trail for longer routes. Distance: 13 miles (full length). Difficulty: easy.

Scotland

Scotland's wilderness landscapes and access rights make it exceptional for dog walking. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code supports responsible access across most land.

Classic Walks:

West Highland Way (sections) Scotland's most famous long-distance trail offers spectacular scenery from Milngavie to Fort William. While completing the full 96 miles requires planning, shorter sections make excellent day walks. The stretch around Loch Lomond is particularly beautiful.

Ben Nevis Britain's highest peak can be climbed with dogs via the Mountain Track, though it's a serious undertaking requiring good fitness and appropriate preparation. Distance: 10 miles return. Difficulty: challenging.

Steall Falls, Glen Nevis A shorter walk to Scotland's second-highest waterfall. The 120-metre cascade rewards the effort, and the 2.5-mile round trip suits most dogs. Watch footing on rocky sections.

Glen Coe Lost Valley A rewarding route into a hidden valley offering stunning mountain scenery. The rocky terrain may not suit all dogs, but agile pups will love it. Distance: 2.5 miles return. Difficulty: moderate to challenging.

Balmacara Estate, Kyle of Lochalsh Voted Scotland's most dog-friendly National Trust property, with 17 miles of trails through lochs, woodland, moorland and Celtic rainforest. Dogs can be off-lead in sheltered Lochalsh woodland.

Cornwall

Cornwall's dramatic coastline and the South West Coast Path provide exceptional dog walking year-round.

Classic Walks:

Zennor to St Ives Coastal Walk One of Cornwall's finest coastal walks, following the cliffs between these two characterful settlements. Dramatic scenery throughout, with the Tinners Arms in Zennor providing a dog-friendly refreshment stop. Distance: 6 miles one way. Difficulty: moderate.

Whitsand Bay At low tide, several beaches join to create a four-mile expanse of sand. Dogs welcome year-round with no seasonal restrictions. The Rame Peninsula offers additional walking through Mount Edgcumbe Country Park.

The Lizard Peninsula The Lizard Point Circular Walk covers approximately 5 miles of stunning coastal scenery. Dogs should be on leads near cliff edges. The peninsula offers numerous other walking options.

Polly Joke Beach Walk A beautiful dog-friendly cove on the north coast between Crantock and Holywell. The walk to reach it adds to the adventure.

Wales

Wales offers mountains, coastline and valleys packed with walking opportunities.

Classic Walks:

Snowdon via Llanberis Path Wales's highest peak can be climbed with dogs, though the popular Llanberis Path is the most straightforward route. A serious walk requiring good preparation. Distance: 9 miles return. Difficulty: challenging.

Moel Famau, Clwydian Range The Jubilee Tower Circular Trail climbs to the Mother Mountain through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Scenic landscapes and spectacular summits. Distance: 4 miles. Difficulty: moderate.

Four Falls Trail, Brecon Beacons Experience "Waterfall Country" on this trail passing four stunning waterfalls. Dogs welcome, though leads required in some areas. Opportunities for dogs to paddle throughout. Distance: 5 miles. Difficulty: moderate.

Rhossili Bay, Gower Walk the length of this spectacular beach, voted the UK's best dog-friendly beach. At low tide, it joins with Llangennith Bay for extended walking. Dogs welcome year-round.

Northumberland

The least populated county in England offers empty beaches, ancient castles and miles of quiet walking.

Classic Walks:

Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle A memorable coastal walk to the dramatic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. The path continues to Embleton Bay and Low Newton for longer routes. Distance: 3 miles return to castle. Difficulty: easy.

Hadrian's Wall Path (sections) The 84-mile coast-to-coast path following the Roman frontier offers excellent dog-friendly walking. Sections around Housesteads and Steel Rigg are particularly rewarding. Dogs welcome, though some archaeological sites have restrictions.

Budle Bay One of Northumberland's best-kept secrets. This quiet beach offers walking without the crowds of nearby Bamburgh.

Yorkshire

Yorkshire offers the drama of the Dales, the wildness of the Moors and a spectacular coastline.

Classic Walks:

Malham Cove and Gordale Scar The Malham Landscape Trail takes in two of Yorkshire's most dramatic natural features. Janet's Foss waterfall provides a perfect paddling spot for dogs. The terrain is rocky in places but manageable for most dogs. Distance: 7 miles. Difficulty: moderate.

Robin Hood's Bay to Whitby A stunning coastal walk following the Cleveland Way between two of Yorkshire's most characterful settlements. Six miles of coastal cliffs with sea views throughout. Dogs welcome, with the beach at Robin Hood's Bay accessible year-round at certain points. Distance: 6 miles one way. Difficulty: moderate.

Newtondale, North York Moors A 6-mile stile-free loop through tree-cloaked valley where dogs can roam free in Forestry England woods. Reach the start point via the heritage steam railway, which welcomes well-behaved dogs. Varied terrain including gentle valley floors and fern-draped dells.

Brimham Rocks Explore extraordinary rock formations shaped by erosion over millennia. Trails of 1.5 to 3 miles wind through the heathland and woodland. Uneven terrain around the rocks requires attention. Dogs must be on leads for safety around the formations.

Devon

Devon combines wild Dartmoor, lush valleys and dramatic coastlines.

Classic Walks:

Dartmoor Tors Dartmoor offers open access land where dogs can roam freely. Popular routes include Haytor Rocks and Hound Tor, both offering dramatic granite formations and wide moorland views. Watch for livestock and ponies grazing throughout the moor.

Valley of the Rocks, Exmoor A spectacular walk near Lynton featuring dramatic rock formations and wild goats. About 4 miles of varied terrain with coastal views. Part of the North Devon Coast Path.

Plymbridge Woods Circular walks through oak woodlands beside the River Plym. Wildlife includes kingfishers, sea trout and deer. The red trail offers breathtaking valley views and varied terrain to keep dogs entertained. Distance: various options from 2 to 5 miles. Difficulty: easy to moderate.

Lydford Gorge The deepest gorge in the South West offers dramatic walking alongside the River Lyd. The White Lady waterfall is a highlight. Some sections have steep steps and narrow paths, so assess whether it suits your dog before visiting.

New Forest

Ancient woodland, wild ponies and 140 miles of off-road paths make the New Forest exceptional for dog walking close to London.

Classic Walks:

Rhinefield Ornamental Drive Walk through majestic redwoods and firs planted in the 1850s. Much of the route follows gravel paths suitable for all abilities. The Rhinefield Arboretum offers additional exploration. Distance: 3 miles. Difficulty: easy.

Tall Trees Trail, Blackwater A shorter walk through impressive woodland canopy. Perfect for a quick forest fix with well-surfaced paths throughout. Distance: 1.5 miles. Difficulty: easy.

Buckland Rings Trail Takes you to the site of a former Iron Age hill fort near Lymington. Combines history with natural beauty through varied woodland terrain. Distance: 4 miles. Difficulty: easy to moderate.

Beaulieu to Buckler's Hard A lovely walk connecting the historic village of Beaulieu to the Georgian shipbuilding village of Buckler's Hard on the Beaulieu River. The Master Builder's at Buckler's Hard is famously dog-friendly. Distance: 2.5 miles one way. Difficulty: easy.

Important note: Dogs must be on leads around the New Forest's free-roaming ponies, cattle and deer. This is a legal requirement.

Exmoor

Straddling Devon and Somerset, Exmoor National Park offers dramatic moorland, wooded valleys and a spectacular coastline.

Classic Walks:

Tarr Steps Ancient clapper bridge across the River Barle, surrounded by ancient oak woodland. Dogs love paddling in the river, and the Tarr Farm Inn nearby welcomes four-legged visitors. Distance: variable from 2 to 6 miles. Difficulty: easy to moderate.

Dunkery Beacon Exmoor's highest point at 519 metres offers panoramic views across the Bristol Channel to Wales. Several routes lead to the summit through heather moorland. Distance: 4 to 6 miles depending on route. Difficulty: moderate.

Watersmeet A beautiful wooded valley where the East Lyn River and Hoar Oak Water meet. The Victorian fishing lodge serves refreshments, and the riverside walks suit all abilities.

East Anglia

Flat landscapes, big skies and quiet paths make East Anglia perfect for relaxed dog walking.

Classic Walks:

Holkham Beach and Pinewoods Walk through the pine woodland to reach one of Britain's finest beaches. Dogs welcome year-round, though leads required in wildlife-sensitive areas during nesting season. Distance: variable. Difficulty: easy.

Blakeney Point A National Trust nature reserve accessible by foot along the shingle spit. Spectacular for birdwatching, though dogs must be on leads to protect breeding seals and birds. Distance: 4 miles one way. Difficulty: moderate (shingle walking).

Thetford Forest England's largest lowland pine forest offers miles of waymarked trails through Breckland landscape. High Lodge Visitor Centre provides facilities and refreshments. Dogs welcome throughout.

Long-Distance Trails for Dogs

The UK's National Trails and long-distance paths offer the ultimate walking adventures. Many are dog-friendly throughout, making them perfect for walking holidays.

South West Coast Path

At 630 miles, this is England's longest National Trail, running from Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset. The dramatic coastline of Devon and Cornwall provides spectacular walking throughout. Dogs are welcome on most sections, though some beaches have seasonal restrictions.

Best sections for dogs: The stretch through North Devon and the wild Penwith Peninsula in Cornwall offer particularly memorable walking.

Pembrokeshire Coast Path

One of the world's finest coastal walks, covering 186 miles from St Dogmaels to Amroth. The path passes dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and historic sites. Dogs welcome, with the section from Nolton Haven to Caerfai particularly rewarding, including Newgale Sands for energetic zoomies.

Cotswold Way

A 102-mile trail through honey-coloured villages and rolling countryside from Chipping Campden to Bath. The gentle terrain suits most dogs, and numerous dog-friendly pubs and accommodation options make this ideal for walking holidays. Dog-friendly attractions along the way include Sudeley Castle Gardens and Hailes Abbey.

South Downs Way

Stretching 100 miles from Winchester to Eastbourne through the South Downs National Park. The route takes in rolling chalk hills, woodland and ancient sites. Well-maintained paths and good facilities suit walking holidays with dogs.

North Downs Way

A 153-mile trail from Farnham in Surrey to Dover in Kent, offering gentler terrain than some National Trails. The varied landscapes and proximity to London make it accessible for regular walks or longer expeditions.

West Highland Way

Scotland's first official long-distance trail runs 96 miles from Milngavie near Glasgow to Fort William. The dramatic scenery includes Loch Lomond shores, Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe. Dogs welcome throughout, though livestock is present in places.

Hadrian's Wall Path

Following the Roman wall 84 miles from coast to coast across northern England. Historic sites, dramatic landscapes and genuine remoteness make this a memorable adventure. Some archaeological sites have dog restrictions, but the path itself welcomes dogs.

Pennine Way

England's first and most challenging National Trail runs 268 miles from Edale to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. The demanding terrain includes high moorland and remote country. Suitable for experienced walkers with fit dogs.

Norfolk Coast Path

A 62.5-mile trail along the North Norfolk coast from Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea. Sandy beaches, salt marshes and charming villages provide varied walking. Most beaches along the route are dog-friendly year-round.

Cleveland Way

A 109-mile trail around the North York Moors, combining moorland and coastal walking. The stretch from Robin Hood's Bay to Whitby is particularly popular with dog owners.

Forest Walks

Britain's forests offer perfect dog walking with shade, soft ground and varied terrain.

Forestry England Top Picks

Grizedale Forest, Lake District The Carron Crag Trail offers breathtaking views across the Lakeland Fells, Howgills and Morecambe Bay. Forest sculptures add interest throughout.

Haldon Forest, Devon The Raptor Trail leads through spectacular towering conifers with wide, surfaced paths. A free doggy fountain awaits at the visitor hub.

Westonbirt, Gloucestershire The Silk Wood walk winds through ancient woodland with native and exotic trees. Well-behaved dogs can explore off-lead on designated trails.

Wyre Forest, Worcestershire The Giants Trail passes through the arboretum and Valley of the Giants, home to magnificent Douglas fir trees. Dog wash facilities at the visitor centre.

Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire The Ranger's Path stretches 4.5 miles through pine and broadleaf woodland. Perfect for dogs who love exploring.

Wendover Woods, Chilterns The Hill Fort Trail takes you around an Iron Age fort with picturesque views over the Vale of Aylesbury.

Wallace and Gromit Forest Walkies

Forestry England offers interactive dog-focused trails at 21 forests across England, featuring games and challenges for dogs and owners to complete together.

National Trust Dog Walks

The National Trust welcomes dogs to most of its outdoor spaces, with many properties specifically catering to four-legged visitors.

Top Dog-Friendly Properties:

Clent Hills, Worcestershire A special circular dog walking trail where dogs can run off-lead through fields and woodland. Panoramic views extend to the Welsh Black Mountains on clear days.

Attingham Park, Shropshire Some 370 acres of glorious woodland with five miles of river. Around 200 fallow deer add wildlife interest.

Hardcastle Crags, West Yorkshire Tumbling streams and mossy rocks within a stunning valley surrounding Gibson Mill. Perfect for dogs who love water.

Studland Bay, Dorset A four-mile stretch of golden sand with heathland behind. Walking trails through dunes and woodland.

Plymbridge Woods, Devon Circular walks through oak woodlands beside the River Plym. Wildlife includes kingfishers, deer and peregrine falcons.

Walking Safely with Dogs

Lead Rules and Livestock

Between 1 March and 31 July, dogs must be kept on short leads on open access land to protect ground-nesting birds. Year-round, keep dogs on leads around livestock and follow local signage.

Terrain Considerations

Not all terrain suits all dogs. Consider:

• Rocky ground: Can damage paw pads; consider protective boots
• Steep gradients: May challenge older or less fit dogs
• Water crossings: Ensure your dog is comfortable with streams and rivers
• Distance: Build up gradually rather than attempting long walks immediately

Weather Awareness

• Hot weather: Avoid midday walking; carry plenty of water; watch for heatstroke signs
• Cold weather: Consider coats for short-haired breeds; watch for ice
• Wet conditions: Paths become slippery; valleys may flood

Essential Kit

• Fresh water and collapsible bowl
• Treats and snacks for energy
• Waste bags (always carry more than you think you'll need)
• First aid kit including tick remover, antiseptic and bandages
• Lead (even if walking off-lead, for unexpected situations)
• High-visibility jacket or collar for poor light
• Paw protection for rough terrain or hot surfaces
• Towel for post-walk drying
• Dog coat for cold or wet weather (short-haired breeds especially)
• ID tag with current contact details

Planning Your Walk

Before setting out:

• Check the weather forecast and adjust plans accordingly
• Tell someone your planned route and expected return time
• Verify any restrictions (seasonal beach bans, nesting bird areas)
• Check your dog is fit enough for the planned distance and terrain
• Ensure vaccinations are up to date, particularly if walking in areas with livestock

On the walk:

• Start with your dog on a lead until you've assessed the area
• Give livestock a wide berth and keep dogs on leads near sheep
• Allow regular rest stops, especially on longer walks
• Monitor your dog for signs of tiredness or discomfort
• Adjust pace to suit your dog rather than pushing them

Finding Dog Walks

Useful Resources

AllTrails Over 90 dog-friendly trails listed for the South Downs alone. Filter by difficulty, distance and terrain.

Forestry England Official site for forest walks with dedicated dog-friendly information.

National Trust Property pages detail dog policies and recommended walking routes.

Ramblers Walking routes across the UK with helpful information on conditions.

Ordnance Survey OS maps remain the gold standard for navigation. The OS Maps app includes route planning.

Guided Walking Holidays

Several companies offer dog-friendly walking holidays with accommodation and luggage transfer:

Contours Walking Holidays Self-guided holidays on trails including Hadrian's Wall Path, the Cotswold Way and Northumberland Coast Path. Dog food and accessories transported between accommodations.

Celtic Trails Walking holidays in Wales and the Borders welcoming dogs.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Britain's walking trails represent some of the finest in the world, and exploring them with a dog by your side adds immeasurable joy to every step. Whether you're seeking gentle woodland strolls, dramatic coastal paths or challenging mountain adventures, there's a perfect walk waiting for you and your four-legged companion.

The key is matching the walk to your dog's abilities and respecting the countryside. Keep dogs under control around livestock, clean up after them, and follow local guidance. This ensures the warm welcome we enjoy continues for generations of walkers to come.

Some of my happiest memories with Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly have been made on walks across Britain, from early morning mists in the Lake District to golden evening light on Cornish cliffs. Every walk brings new discoveries, new views and the simple pleasure of exploring together.

Lace up your boots, clip on the lead, and discover the joy of walking Britain with your best friend.

Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max, Molly and Luke

Related Guides

• Dog-Friendly Holidays UK: Complete Guide
• Dog-Friendly Lake District
• Dog-Friendly Peak District
• Dog-Friendly Scotland
• Dog-Friendly Cornwall
• Dog-Friendly Wales
• Dog-Friendly Yorkshire
• Dog-Friendly Northumberland
• Dog-Friendly Beaches UK
• Dog-Friendly Camping and Glamping UK

Walking conditions can change. Always check current conditions, carry appropriate maps and equipment, and let someone know your planned route. This guide is based on research and personal experience but should not replace proper preparation for any walk