If you own a dog, chances are that walking features high up on your list of regular activities. So, it’s just as well the UK is home to some of the most spectacular dog walks imaginable, and many of them right on your doorstep. Now more than ever, getting outside for your daily exercise is vital for your mental and physical health, not to mention good for your dog.
Today we’re doing a round-up of some of the best dog walks throughout the UK, from the rugged, historic trails of the Highlands to the rolling Cornish beaches of the South West. As ever, we’d love to get your feedback on these walks (if you’ve enjoyed them yourself) and on any others you’d happily recommend to your fellow walkers.
Please note: during the Coronavirus pandemic, we advise following all government advice on safe dog walking practices.
Let’s start with Scotland…
West Highland Way – this 96-mile stretch is a popular location for intrepid dog walkers coming from far and wide, and extends past iconic landmarks such as Mugdock Country Park, Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, Devil’s Staircase and Glen Nevis.
This spectacular route begins at Milngavie and finishes in Fort William and is best walked between April and October when you can enjoy idyllic lochs and mountain ranges, and dramatic panoramic views. To walk the whole route takes an indulgent 7 days but it can be picked up at any point.
Other unmissable Scottish walks:
- John Mur Way
- The Great Glen Way
- Fife Coastal Paths
- Southern Upland Way
- The Cateran Trail
North East…
Yeavering Bell – located in the Northumberland National Park, the twin-topped hill is home to the park’s largest Iron Age hillfort. Perfect for dogs that enjoy open spaces, the route is made up of rolling green hills, valleys, and vast stretches of countryside, as well as calming waterfalls for your dog to take a dip in. Take care not to alarm the resident cattle and sheep that graze contentedly on the ancient hills.
- Yeavering Bell, Northumberland
- Jesmond Dean, Newcastle
- Tunstall Reservoir, North Pennines
North West…
The Gritstone Trail – sample some of the finest walking in Cheshire by exploring the ancient Gritstone Trail located on the edge of the beautiful Peak District. As well as enjoying splendid views in every direction, this route will take you past a variety of landmarks including Lyme Park, White Nancy and the Saddle of Kerridge. Hilly and challenging in places, make sure you go prepared and take provisions for both owner and pooch.
- Blackstone Edge, Manchester
- Warton Crag, Lancashire
- Derwentwater, Lake District
Wales…
Nant Mill Wood, Clywedog Valley Trail, Wrexham – spanning 98 acres of woodland, the Clywedog Trail combines shaded spaces, open grassland and glistening water for your dog to splash about in. Enjoy eight miles of winding walks covering glorious countryside and passing Minera Lead Mines and Country Park, Plas Power Woods, Offa’s Dyke, and the grand Erddig Estate.
Midlands…
Waseley Hills Country Park – situated on the outskirts of Birmingham in an area covering 150 acres, this walk consists of rolling hills, open pastures and occasional patches of woodland, which make for a varied ramble with your canine friend in tow. Take the route at your own pace and absorb the stunning views linking Clent and the Lickey Hills, as well as exploring beyond the paths on this diverse and interesting route.
South East…
Runnymede Memorial/Circular Trail – a slightly more challenging walk for dog and walker (but comparatively shorter than others listed) the trail includes several climbs and descents and a number of unsurfaced paths and uneven tracks. But don’t let that put you off! Runnymede has so much to offer and is the perfect location for a sunny Sunday stroll with all the family or a companionable ramble just with your pooch beside you.
- Headley Heath, Surrey Hills
- Otterbourne Park Wood, Hampshire
- The Greenway, Hertfordshire
South West…
Beacon on the Coast – no dog walk could be more glorious than this one, located at St Agnes Head, Cornwall. The trail begins in the old mining village of St Agnes and climbs to the peak of St Agnes Beacon, where you can stop and appreciate fine views of heather-clad cliffs, rocky ridges and crashing coastal waves. Either stay upland or descend to the coast at the cove of Chapel Porth. Your dog will love the freedom to roam, run, sniff and swim on this exciting trail, perfect any time of year.
- Par Sands, Cornwall
- Dartmoor National Park, Devon
- Abbotsbury Beach, Dorset
Please note: during the Coronavirus pandemic, we advise following all government advice on safe dog walking practices.
Please comment below with your own recommendations! We’d love to hear where you and your dog most love to explore.
Written by: Hannah
