Dog-Friendly Day Walks in the UK

by Sue Talbot

The UK is a walker’s paradise and filled with dog-friendly trails that will give your furry friend a real sense of freedom. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a multi-day hiking adventure, there are plenty of walks to choose from.

]The beautiful British landscapes, made up of wooded hillsides, windswept coastlines and majestic mountains, are a great place for strengthening the bond between you and your dog.

The Dog-Friendly Lake District

Blessed with stunning lakes, rugged fells and lush forests, the Lake District is a fantastic outdoor playground for dogs. You’ll find plenty of dog-friendly walks to suit all abilities, from countryside strolls to more challenging hikes.

One of the most tranquil routes is the Tarn Hows Circular Walk, a 1.5-mile trail that takes you through a beautiful, wooded valley and around the tarn, with a majestic backdrop featuring the Langdale Pikes.

The west shore of the Windermere Way is another great dog-friendly trail: a 12-mile route that follows the shoreline of England’s largest lake. While you soak up the lakeside views, there are plenty of spots for your dog to swim and play.

Dog Walks in the Peak District

The Peak District National Park sits in the heart of England and is a mecca for hikers and dog owners. Meandering across moors, hills and valleys is a wide range of dog-friendly trails to explore.

The Mam Tor Circular Walk is a 3.5-mile route that takes you to the summit of one of the Peak Districts most iconic hills. It’s a must-do for any dog owner. The views from the top are just incredible and stretch out across the hills and valleys.

Another popular route is Lud’s Church to the Roaches, a diverse trail that winds through woodland and across the epic limestone valley.

Walk Your Dog on the Pennine Way

The Pennine Way is a 268-mile long-distance trail that spans the length of northern England, cutting through dramatic and rugged landscapes from the Peak District to the Scottish Borders.

While the trail isn’t dog-friendly as a multi-day hike, there are plenty of dog-friendly sections to explore as day walks, such as the Malham Cove to Gordale route.

This 4.5-mile trail takes you through a spectacular limestone valley to viewpoints overlooking the surrounding countryside. There are also lots of traditional country pubs en route, so you can stop off to sample the local ale and hearty food.

Cotswold Dog Walks

Known for its chocolate box villages, rolling hills and quiet woodlands, the Cotswolds is a fabulous area for dog owners who love to explore the great outdoors.

From the waterside village of Bourton-on-the-Water, there’s a 2.5-mile circular trail that takes you along the banks of the River Windrush. The Chipping Campden to Broadway walk is another great route that follows the scenic valley and offers incredible views of the countryside.

If you want something more challenging that will push your limits over several days of walking, the Cotswold Way is a 102-mile trail through some of England’s most picturesque countryside. You’ll walk among rolling hills, quaint villages and historic market towns. The well-marked paths and diverse landscapes are perfect for you and your dog, and unlike the Pennine Way, this route is genuinely dog-friendly from start to finish.

Dog-Friendly Walks in the Yorkshire Dales

If you’re looking for a place where rolling hills and limestone landscapes meet the boundless enthusiasm of a happy dog, the Yorkshire Dales is a great location. As the wind blows through your hair, follow ancient stone walls, cross bubbling brooks and take a moment on a ridge to appreciate Mother Nature’s handiwork.

Ribblehead Viaduct is a 5-mile route that guides you along the railway viaduct, through expansive moorland and past historic stations. Alternatively, you can hike from Clapham to Ingleborough to discover limestone plateaus, ancient drystone walls and far-reaching views from one of Yorkshire’s most famous peaks.

Interested in a multi-day walk with your dog?

Contours Holidays offer the largest range of dog-friendly long-distance walking holidays in the country, providing dog-friendly accommodation along brilliant trails your dog is sure to enjoy. Find your holiday here:

Dog-Friendly Holidays