Dog-Friendly Walks Peak District

Britain's first National Park delivers some of England's finest dog walking. The Peak District's dramatic contrasts between the rugged Dark Peak moorlands and the gentler White Peak limestone dales mean variety exists within short distances. Whether your dog thrives on challenging summit climbs or prefers gentle riverside strolls, the Peak District provides exceptional walking across more than 555 square miles of protected landscape.

What makes this area special for dogs is the sheer accessibility of quality walking. Unlike remote wilderness areas requiring lengthy approaches, Peak District walks often start from village centres, car parks with facilities, or directly from dog-friendly cottages. The network of rights of way, open access land, and traffic-free trails creates endless possibilities for exploration with your four-legged companion.

Classic Peak District Walks

These iconic routes draw visitors from across the country, offering dramatic landscapes and memorable experiences.

Mam Tor Circular

Distance: 3 miles | Time: 1.5-2 hours | Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

The "Shivering Mountain" provides one of the Peak District's most accessible summit experiences. Starting from Mam Nick car park (S33 8WA), the circular route climbs to 517 metres through well-maintained paths with stone steps in steeper sections.

The summit rewards with panoramic views across Edale Valley, the Great Ridge stretching towards Lose Hill, and the Hope Valley below. On clear days, visibility extends across multiple counties. Dogs should remain on leads throughout due to livestock grazing and ground-nesting birds during spring and summer months.

The descent via the old collapsed road (the "Shivering Mountain" earned its name from regular landslips) returns to the car park. Extended versions continue along the Great Ridge to Back Tor, Lose Hill, and down into Hope village, creating routes of 5-7 miles.

Facilities: Parking at Mam Nick (pay and display), toilets at nearby Castleton. Dog-friendly pubs in Castleton include Ye Olde Nags Head and Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese.

Stanage Edge from Hathersage

Distance: 9 miles | Time: 4-5 hours | Difficulty: Challenging

Stanage Edge represents Peak District walking at its finest. This 6-kilometre gritstone escarpment rises dramatically above the Hope Valley, offering far-reaching views and that unmistakable Dark Peak character.

Starting from Hathersage village, the route climbs through fields past North Lees Hall (said to have inspired Mr Rochester's home in Jane Eyre) before ascending to the Edge itself. The path along the top provides spectacular views across to Kinder Scout, Mam Tor, and the Derwent Valley. Rock climbers frequently practice on the faces below, adding interest to the walk.

The return descends via Stanage Plantation or continues to the Long Causeway before dropping back to Hathersage. The village offers several excellent refreshment stops, including The Scotsman's Pack and various cafes welcoming dogs.

Dogs can enjoy off-lead sections on the Edge itself when no livestock are present, though leads are essential during lambing season and when sheep graze the moorland.

Facilities: Free parking in Hathersage village, paid parking at various roadside spots nearer the Edge. Hathersage has railway station access for car-free visits.

Dovedale Stepping Stones

Distance: 3-6 miles | Time: 1.5-3 hours | Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

Dovedale's famous stepping stones and limestone scenery draw crowds, but the natural beauty justifies the popularity. The River Dove meanders between towering limestone pinnacles and wooded slopes, creating picturesque walking throughout.

Park at Dovedale car park (DE6 2AY) and follow the riverside path upstream. The stepping stones provide a memorable crossing point, though nervous dogs might prefer the footbridge alternative nearby. Beyond the stones, the dale narrows dramatically, with Lover's Leap viewpoint offering stunning perspectives.

For quieter walking, arrive early morning or continue beyond where most visitors turn back. The full route through to Milldale extends the walk while escaping crowds. The shallow river provides excellent paddling opportunities for water-loving dogs throughout.

Dogs should be on leads near the busy stepping stones area and when livestock graze the dale sides. The riverside sections offer more freedom when conditions allow.

Facilities: Large pay-and-display car park with toilets and mobile refreshments. No nearby villages, so bring supplies or combine with a visit to Ashbourne.

Kinder Scout

Distance: 8-12 miles | Time: 5-7 hours | Difficulty: Challenging

Kinder Scout represents the Peak District's wildest walking. The highest point in the Peak District (636 metres), this peat moorland plateau demands respect and preparation. Navigation can prove challenging in poor visibility, and the terrain requires fitness and appropriate equipment.

Multiple routes access the plateau. The classic approach from Edale via Grindsbrook Clough involves scrambling sections that energetic dogs handle well. Jacob's Ladder provides a more straightforward ascent. The western approaches from Hayfield follow the route of the famous 1932 Mass Trespass that helped establish open access rights.

Kinder Downfall, where the River Kinder plunges over the edge, provides a dramatic destination. In certain wind conditions, the water blows back upwards rather than falling. The Wool Packs and other weathered gritstone formations add interest across the plateau.

Dogs must remain under close control due to ground-nesting birds (particularly during breeding season from March to July) and the remote terrain where accidents could prove serious. Fit, experienced walking dogs thrive here; this isn't suitable for elderly dogs or those uncomfortable with rough terrain.

Facilities: Parking at Edale or Hayfield, both with village facilities. Mountain rescue teams operate in this area, emphasising the serious nature of these walks.

Traffic-Free Trails

Former railway lines provide accessible, flat walking suitable for all dogs and their owners.

Monsal Trail

Distance: 8.5 miles (full trail) | Time: Variable | Difficulty: Easy

The Monsal Trail follows the former Midland Railway line, offering traffic-free walking through spectacular scenery. The route passes through lit tunnels (including the 400-metre Headstone Tunnel), over the iconic Monsal Head Viaduct, and through the heart of the White Peak.

Multiple access points allow walks of any length. Popular sections include Bakewell to Monsal Head (4 miles return), offering views from the famous viaduct. The section through Chee Dale provides wilder scenery, though the stepping stones route below requires sure-footedness in wet conditions.

Dogs enjoy the freedom of the wide, well-surfaced path, though leads are sensible when cyclists approach. The trail gets busy on sunny weekends and bank holidays.

Hassop Station provides an excellent base, with the station building converted to a cafe welcoming dogs on the outdoor terrace. Similar refreshment stops exist at Bakewell Station, Millers Dale, and the Monsal Head Hotel.

Facilities: Multiple car parks along the route (Bakewell Station, Hassop, Millers Dale). Bike hire available at several points. Toilets at main access points.

Tissington Trail

Distance: 13 miles (full trail) | Time: Variable | Difficulty: Easy

Running from Ashbourne to Parsley Hay, the Tissington Trail provides another former railway route through gentle White Peak countryside. The trail passes through the beautiful village of Tissington (famous for its well-dressing tradition) and connects with the High Peak Trail at Parsley Hay.

The surface suits all abilities, and the gradual gradients make this accessible to less mobile dogs and owners. Surrounding limestone countryside provides pleasant views without the drama of the Dark Peak edges.

Dogs generally walk off-lead safely on this trail, though consideration for other users remains important. The trail sees less cycle traffic than the Monsal Trail, creating a more relaxed atmosphere.

Facilities: Car parks at Ashbourne, Tissington, and Parsley Hay. Cafe at Parsley Hay where the trails meet.

High Peak Trail

Distance: 17.5 miles (full trail) | Time: Variable | Difficulty: Easy

Connecting Cromford with Dowlow near Buxton, the High Peak Trail follows one of the world's earliest long-distance railway routes (opened 1831). The trail provides traffic-free walking through varied countryside, with interesting industrial heritage features including incline engine houses.

The trail joins the Tissington Trail at Parsley Hay, allowing extended walks combining both routes. Black Rocks near Cromford provides a popular short walk with impressive gritstone outcrops.

Facilities: Parking at High Peak Junction (Cromford), Middleton Top, and various points along the route. Visitor centre at High Peak Junction with cafe.

Reservoir Walks

The Peak District's reservoirs provide scenic walking with reliable paths and dramatic settings.

Ladybower Reservoir

Distance: 8-10 miles (full circuit) | Time: 3-5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

The largest reservoir in the Peak District, Ladybower sits in the dramatic Upper Derwent Valley surrounded by forested slopes and moorland. The full circuit provides a substantial day walk, though shorter sections offer equally rewarding experiences.

Start from Fairholmes Visitor Centre (S33 0AQ), following well-marked paths around the water's edge. The route passes Derwent Dam, famous for Dambusters practice flights during World War Two. Views across the water to the surrounding hills create memorable scenery throughout.

The western shore path through conifer plantations provides shelter on windy days, whilst the eastern route offers more open views. Dogs enjoy the varied terrain and opportunities for water access at designated points.

Facilities: Fairholmes Visitor Centre with cafe, toilets, and cycle hire. Pay-and-display parking (fills early on sunny weekends). Additional parking at Heatherdene.

Carsington Water

Distance: 8 miles (full circuit) | Time: 3-4 hours | Difficulty: Easy

Carsington Water provides accessible reservoir walking suitable for all abilities. The well-surfaced path circling the reservoir welcomes dogs, with several designated areas for water access.

The visitor centre area offers various facilities, whilst the quieter northern shore provides more peaceful walking. Bird hides around the reservoir allow wildlife watching, though dogs should remain controlled near these areas.

Facilities: Excellent visitor centre with cafe, shop, and water sports facilities. Extensive parking. The Knockerdown Inn near the reservoir welcomes dogs.

Derwent and Howden Reservoirs

Distance: Variable | Time: Variable | Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

Above Ladybower, the Derwent and Howden reservoirs provide quieter walking in spectacular settings. The road beyond Fairholmes is closed to most traffic on weekends and bank holidays (accessible by bus or bicycle), creating traffic-free walking opportunities.

Circular routes combine reservoir-side paths with forest tracks and moorland edges. The landscape feels more remote than busier areas, appealing to those seeking solitude.

Facilities: Limited facilities beyond Fairholmes. Bring supplies for longer walks.

Limestone Dale Walks

The White Peak's dales offer contrasting experiences to the gritstone edges, with river valleys, woodland, and gentler terrain.

Lathkill Dale

Distance: 4-6 miles | Time: 2-3 hours | Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

Lathkill Dale ranks among the Peak District's most beautiful valleys. The River Lathkill (sometimes dry in upper sections) flows through limestone scenery rich in wildflowers during spring and summer.

Start from Over Haddon or Monyash for circular routes incorporating the dale and surrounding countryside. The riverside path passes weirs, old mining remains, and through varied woodland. Water-loving dogs appreciate the paddling opportunities.

Wildlife includes kingfishers, dippers, and occasionally otters. The dale forms part of a National Nature Reserve, so dogs should remain under close control to avoid disturbing sensitive habitats.

Facilities: Parking at Over Haddon and Monyash. Lathkill Hotel in Over Haddon welcomes dogs.

Padley Gorge

Distance: 2-4 miles | Time: 1-2 hours | Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

This ancient oak woodland creates an almost magical atmosphere, with twisted trees, mossy boulders, and the Burbage Brook tumbling through the gorge. The relatively short walk packs remarkable variety into limited distance.

Start from the National Trust Longshaw Estate, following waymarked trails down into the gorge. The path follows the brook, with numerous opportunities for dogs to paddle and explore. The ascent from Grindleford Station Cafe returns via different routes through the woodland.

Early mornings provide the best opportunities for off-lead walking before other visitors arrive. The gorge becomes popular on sunny weekends.

Facilities: National Trust car park at Longshaw (pay and display, free for members). Grindleford Station Cafe (cash only) provides hearty refreshments. Fox House Inn nearby welcomes dogs.

Chee Dale

Distance: 5-6 miles | Time: 2.5-3.5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

Chee Dale provides more adventurous walking than most limestone dales. The route from Millers Dale follows the River Wye through dramatic limestone scenery, with stepping stones adding interest and challenge.

The stepping stones require sure-footedness and can prove tricky after rain. Dogs should be comfortable with slightly awkward terrain. The reward is a spectacular dale with fewer visitors than Dovedale.

Combine with sections of the Monsal Trail for varied walking. The return via the tunnels provides contrast to the riverside route.

Facilities: Millers Dale car park with toilets. Cafe at Millers Dale.

Bradford Dale and Alport

Distance: 4-5 miles | Time: 2-2.5 hours | Difficulty: Easy

This quieter dale near Youlgreave provides lovely riverside walking without the crowds. The River Bradford flows through a peaceful valley connecting to the River Lathkill at Alport.

The circular route from Youlgreave follows the dale before climbing to Alport and returning via field paths. The combination of riverside, village, and countryside walking creates an enjoyable half-day outing.

Facilities: Parking in Youlgreave. Several pubs in the village welcome dogs.

Walks from Popular Villages

Starting walks from village centres provides convenience and refreshment opportunities.

Bakewell Loop

Distance: 4 miles | Time: 2 hours | Difficulty: Easy

This popular circular from Bakewell combines the Monsal Trail with field paths offering views back over the town. Start from the town centre, climb to Bakewell Station on the Monsal Trail, follow the trail towards Hassop, then return via public bridleways and paths through Manners Wood.

The walk provides enough variety to interest dogs without excessive challenge. Multiple dog-friendly cafes and pubs in Bakewell reward completion.

Facilities: Extensive parking in Bakewell. Numerous refreshment options throughout the town.

Castleton to Cave Dale

Distance: 3-4 miles | Time: 1.5-2 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

Cave Dale provides a dramatic exit from Castleton, climbing steeply between limestone cliffs before opening onto the plateau above. The route offers several options for circular walks incorporating the dale and surrounding countryside.

Peak Cavern entrance at the dale's bottom provides interest before the climb begins. The upper sections offer views across to Mam Tor and the Hope Valley.

Facilities: Parking in Castleton (fills quickly on busy days). Multiple dog-friendly pubs and cafes in the village.

Chatsworth Estate

Distance: Variable | Time: Variable | Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

The Chatsworth Estate provides extensive walking opportunities, from gentle strolls around the gardens to more substantial routes through the parkland and surrounding moorland. Dogs on leads welcome in the gardens and parkland. Chatsworth ranks among the Peak District's finest dog-friendly attractions, combining world-class gardens with excellent walking.

Combine estate walking with routes to Edensor, Beeley, and the surrounding countryside. The estate feels surprisingly spacious despite its popularity.

Facilities: Car parks at Chatsworth (charges apply). Cafe and facilities at the house. Estate farm shop at Pilsley.

Seasonal Considerations

Spring (March-May)

Lambing season requires leads throughout most walks as sheep graze across the Peak District. Ground-nesting birds need protection on moorland areas, with breeding season restrictions applying from March to July. Wildflowers in the limestone dales reach their peak during late spring.

Summer (June-August)

Long daylight hours enable extended walks. Popular routes become busy, especially on weekends. Early morning or evening walks avoid crowds and heat. Rivers and streams provide welcome cooling for hot dogs.

Autumn (September-November)

Arguably the finest walking season. Heather colours the moorland purple in early autumn, whilst woodland dales display autumn colours later in the season. Reduced crowds make popular routes more enjoyable.

Winter (December-February)

Winter walking requires proper preparation. Shorter daylight limits walking time. Snow and ice transform the landscape but demand appropriate equipment and experience. The Dark Peak can experience severe conditions when lower areas remain mild.

Dog Walking Guidelines

The Peak District National Park welcomes dogs but requires responsible behaviour to protect livestock, wildlife, and other visitors.

Lead requirements: Dogs must be on leads near livestock, during ground-nesting bird season (March-July) on moorland, and in areas where signs indicate restrictions. Even well-trained dogs can trigger panic in sheep, potentially causing miscarriage or death.

Livestock awareness: Cattle with calves can be dangerous. If cattle approach aggressively, release your dog (they can outrun cattle) whilst making your own escape.

Wildlife protection: Ground-nesting birds including curlew, golden plover, and skylark depend on the moorland habitat. Dogs investigating nests can cause abandonment.

Access land: Open access land permits walking but with restrictions. Some areas close entirely during grouse shooting season. Signs indicate specific requirements.

Paths and trails: Stick to marked paths when crossing farmland. Field edges often provide legal routes; crossing through crop centres does not.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs allowed off-lead in the Peak District?

In many areas, yes, when no livestock are present and outside ground-nesting bird season. However, conditions change across different locations and seasons. Always carry a lead and use it when required by signs, near livestock, or when other walkers or dogs approach.

Which Peak District walks are best for dogs?

The Monsal Trail suits all dogs with its flat, traffic-free surface. Padley Gorge appeals to dogs who enjoy woodland and water. Mam Tor provides accessible summit walking. Stanage Edge rewards fit dogs with dramatic scenery.

Can dogs go on Mam Tor?

Yes, dogs are welcome on Mam Tor. They should remain on leads due to livestock grazing and the presence of other walkers on this popular route.

Are there dog-friendly cafes near Peak District walks?

Numerous cafes welcome dogs throughout the Peak District. Hassop Station on the Monsal Trail, Grindleford Station Cafe near Padley Gorge, and the Fox House Inn at Longshaw all provide dog-friendly refreshments.

What should I bring for Peak District dog walks?

Water and bowl for your dog, leads, poo bags, treats, and appropriate clothing for changeable weather. For longer walks, consider dog first aid basics and ensure your dog's fitness matches the route difficulty.

Are the stepping stones at Dovedale suitable for dogs?

Most dogs manage the stepping stones without difficulty, though nervous dogs might prefer the nearby footbridge. The stones can be slippery when wet.

When is the best time for dog walking in the Peak District?

Autumn offers ideal conditions: comfortable temperatures, beautiful colours, and reduced crowds. Spring brings wildflowers but lambing restrictions. Summer provides long days but busy trails and heat concerns.

Can I walk my dog around Ladybower Reservoir?

Yes, the reservoir circuit welcomes dogs. The well-maintained paths suit most dogs, with the full circuit providing substantial exercise. Keep dogs under control and clean up after them.

Start Exploring

The Peak District's walking rewards both effort and relaxation. From challenging moorland traverses to gentle traffic-free trails, routes exist for every dog and owner combination. The density of quality walking means variety sits within easy reach of any base, whilst welcoming villages provide refreshment and accommodation throughout.

Ready for adventure? Lace up your boots, clip on your dog's lead, and discover why walkers have treasured this landscape since Britain's first National Park designation in 1951.

Luke explores the Peak District with Charlie the German Shepherd, Golden Retrievers Buster and Ember, Labradors Simba and Max, and French Bulldog Molly. The pack's favourite routes include the Monsal Trail for easy days and Stanage Edge when feeling energetic.