To all dog enthusiasts, grab your furry buddies and get your walking shoes on — we're teaming up with Dog Furiendly, the canine connoisseurs of travel, to share our ultimate list of must-explore dog walking destinations in the UK. With terrain ranging from rugged coastlines to majestic mountains, there's an adventure waiting for every sniffing snout. Get ready to unleash your dog's wanderlust and hit the trails with these paw-sitively superb walking spots!
The South West Coast Path
Roaring waves, panoramic views, and wildlife galore — this stunning coastal walk has it all. Your furry friend's ears will perk up at the sight of seals bobbing in the Atlantic, while you take in the magnificent vistas of the Jurassic Coast. A must-visit just off the South West Coastal path is the Otterton Mill in Devon — a historic working mill where you’ll discover a sniff-ilicious dog-friendly cafe.
Another favourite amongst canine explorers is the trail from Exmouth to Sidmouth. Here, charming villages offer plenty of nose-boop opportunities and water bowls for a quick refreshment. The path from St Ives to Zennor is another treasure, with awe-inspiring cliff views that will have your pup wagging their tail in delight.
The Lake District
With its verdant valleys, shimmering lakes, and towering fells, the Lake District is a visual treat that serves up a smorgasbord of breathtaking views and dog-friendly adventures. This region is a true paradise, with serene lakes like Derwentwater and Windermere offering peaceful strolls and refreshing dips for your furry friend.
Should you both be in the mood for a touch more adventure, tackle the thrilling climb up Scafell Pike. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views that are worth every pant, wag, and step of the journey. These spellbinding sights will sear themselves into your memory, creating a timeless memento shared between you and your four-legged companion.
As if this wasn't enough, the Lake District also offers a paw-some historical experience for those looking for a respite from their walking escapades. Don't forget to visit the dog-friendly Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway. Here, your tail-wagging buddy can join you for a chug down history lane, making the Lake District a destination that truly has it all.
The Northumberland Coast
If your canine companion is a certified beach bum, the lure of Northumberland's sandy shores will be irresistible. Picture this: stunning beaches kissed by gentle waves, towering cliffs standing guard, sprawling dunes that roll into the distance, and grand castles boasting centuries of history, all waiting for you and your furry friend to explore.
A treasured favourite among the tail-wagging community is the walk from the majestic Bamburgh Castle to the charming village of Seahouses. Here, you'll be treated to panoramic sea views and the chance to roam the grounds of the castle itself. Even more exciting? Your pup can also join in the fun at the Armstrong & Aviation Museum!
But hold onto your leash because the fun doesn't stop there! Alongside this must-do route, be sure not to miss out on the hidden gem that is Druridge Bay Country Park. Spanning a generous seven-mile stretch of pristine beach, this unique coastal escape boasts a visitor centre and a tapestry of diverse habitats. From sand dunes and woodland to meadows and a freshwater lake, there's a new smell around every corner to send your pooch into a sniffing frenzy. All these combine to create a truly dog-tastic day out in Northumberland!
The Peak District
Immerse yourself and your four-legged friend in the enchanting beauty of the Peak District, a tranquil haven bursting with captivating landscapes. With its rich tapestry of stunning views, it promises an adventure that will have your pup's tail wagging in pure delight.
Set off on a scenic hike up to Kinder Scout, Mam Tor, and Dovedale, each offering panoramic vistas that create the perfect backdrop for a memory-filled day out. Nestled in these natural wonders, you'll discover Chatsworth House, an iconic gem of the area. With its sprawling parklands stretching over 100 acres, it's a paradise that welcomes your furry explorer for a day of sniffing, running and wagging.
After a day of adventuring, step into the charming market town of Bakewell, renowned for its scrumptious pudding. Here, you'll find a plethora of dog-friendly cafes, making it the perfect spot for a well-deserved rest and a tasty treat. So whether it's a post-walk nap, a leisurely picnic by the River Dove, or just some downtime in a cosy pub, the Peak District has it all, promising an experience you and your canine companion will cherish.
The Brecon Beacons
Embark on a wild and wonderful adventure in the heart of Wales with the Brecon Beacons, a perfect spot for you and your dog to create some unforgettable memories. The region boasts enchanting trails through Waterfall Country, complete with cascades that will have your pup jumping for joy.
For a truly immersive experience, take on the Four Falls Trail, a five-mile circular route showcasing four of the region's most impressive waterfalls. From the mighty plunge of Henrhyd Falls, the highest waterfall in South Wales, to the delicate, snow-like sprinkle of Sgwd-y-Eira, there's plenty to take your breath away.
Here's a fun fact for Batman fans! Henrhyd Falls also has a claim to cinematic fame. It was used as the exterior of the Batcave in Christopher Nolan's ‘The Dark Knight Rises’. Imagine stepping into Batman's shoes as you explore the area!
After you've soaked up the beauty of the waterfalls, pay a visit to Craig-y-Nos Country Park, located in the upper Swansea Valley. This dog-friendly park features 40 acres of woodland, grassland and beautiful ponds, and it's the former estate of the famous opera singer Adelina Patti. It offers great walks and stunning views, making it an essential addition to your Brecon Beacons adventure.
Then, if you and your furry companion are up for a challenge, scale the heights of Pen y Fan, the tallest peak in the Brecon Beacons. With several routes to the summit, ranging from the arduous 'Fan Hir' to the more relaxed 'Cribyn', there's a path for every adventurer and their four-legged friend.
The Brecon Beacons offer an exhilarating blend of natural beauty and exciting attractions that will make for a paw-some outing. Your furry friend's tail won't stop wagging!
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Immerse yourself and your four-legged friend in the enchanting allure of the Welsh coastline, an idyllic blend of untouched beauty, scenic vistas, and rich biodiversity. This coastal wonder, stretching from Freshwater East to Stackpole Quay, has it all. Sandy beaches, towering cliffs, intriguing caves, and colourful meadows all wrapped up in a dog-friendly 4-mile jaunt.
Commence your walk at Freshwater East, a sandy haven perfect for dogs who love a good dig, then make your way towards Stackpole Quay, marvelling at the mosaic of cliffs, caves and meadows along the way. These landscapes not only provide a visual treat but also a cornucopia of new scents and sights for your pooch to explore, making it an adventure they'll surely relish.
Take a breather at Bosherston Lily Ponds, a nationally significant wetland home to a variety of wildlife. This tranquil spot brimming with lily pads offers a delightful contrast to the coastal stretch. Enjoy the symphony of chirping birds and buzzing insects while your furry companion meets new friends along the trail.
Complete your walk with a visit to the secluded Barafundle Bay. Tucked away behind an assembly of sand dunes and pine trees, this bay frequently graces the list of the UK's best beaches. Here, your pup can gambol around, meet fellow beach-loving dogs, and take a well-deserved rest.
This Welsh treasure trove is sure to charm both you and your pet, offering a harmonious blend of coastal views, diverse terrain, and a chance to revel in nature's beauty. Get ready to create memories to last a lifetime, or in dog years, seven lifetimes!
The Scottish Highlands
Our final, but far from least, destination takes us to the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, a land that offers some of the most thrilling dog walks in the UK. This northern marvel is perfect for adventurous pups who thrive on excitement and exploration.
The West Highland Way is a trail steeped in splendour, presenting both mind-blowing views and exhilarating climbs that would make any tail wag with anticipation. Stretching from Milngavie to Fort William, this route is perfect for nature-loving pups and their humans, boasting the ethereal beauty of moorlands, dense forests, and serene lochs.
Speaking of Fort William, this charming town rests comfortably at the foot of Ben Nevis — the highest mountain in the British Isles. Here, you'll find an abundance of dog-friendly eateries, like the famed Crannog Seafood Restaurant. With fresh, local seafood and a cosy ambience, it's the ideal spot to rest your legs and savour some grub after a long day of exploration.
Those seeking an added challenge will find it in the rugged trails of Ben Nevis and Glencoe. Both offer unforgettable hiking experiences amongst breathtaking landscapes, sure to create lasting memories. Glencoe, in particular, is a true gem — home to a wealth of natural and historical attractions, including the towering peaks of the Three Sisters.
For a dash of magic to your adventure, consider a detour to the mystical Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye. This enchanting series of clear, cold pools and waterfalls set against the backdrop of the Cuillin Hills is the perfect spot for a refreshing dip, a memorable picnic, or simply to marvel at nature's beauty.
All in all, the Scottish Highlands are a majestic fusion of wild beauty, awe-inspiring trails, and dog-friendly attractions that are sure to make your dog-walking adventures in the UK truly unforgettable.
To make these trips even more delightful, check out Dog Furiendly's free website (dogfuriendly.com) to discover the dog-friendly pubs and cafes that lie along your chosen route. Whether it's the Peak District or the Scottish Highlands that get your pup's tail wagging, we're sure these adventures will result in some paws-itively unforgettable memories!
