From bustling London to the tranquil Scottish Highlands, Welsh bays and beaches from Northern Ireland to Northumberland, when it comes to great dog walks, here in the UK we’re spoilt for choice. Fancy a run on stretches of gorgeous sand, meandering through ancient woodlands, or exploring historic landmarks? We’ll just get our wellies on.
Here’s our latest round up of the UK’s top dog walking routes. Who’s ready for walkies?
Castle Fraser, Aberdeenshire
Time: 2.5 hours
Setting: Forest/parkland
Ease: Easy
Scenic rating: 4
A fairytale castle you say? With walking trails that take you across farmland, parkland and woodland? Castle Fraser has it all. Part of the National Trust of Scotland, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the iconic Scottish castle itself as well as lots of wildlife-spotting along the way. For an easy one-hour stroll, the Alton Brae Trail is great.
Newton Pool, Northumberland
Time: 1 hour
Setting: Coastal/parkland
Ease: Easy
Scenic rating: 5
Northumberland is celebrated for its endless stretches of beaches (and the cold north sea to dip a toe or paw into) for good reason – it’s so beautiful! We chose Newton Pool for its nature reserve in a seaside village setting. Our shortest walk on the list – the walk is only a mile long over easy terrain – not too taxing for little legs. There’s also a dog friendly pub to refuel in, too!
Robin Hood’s Bay, Yorkshire
Time: 1 hour
Setting: Coastal
Ease: Easy
Scenic rating: 4
As legend would have it, when French pirates came to take the northeast coast (and the fisherman’s boats along with it), Robin Hood stood up to them, the pirates surrendered – and he even returned the loot. An old fishing village (with plenty of dog-friendly places to drink and eat) crowns the bay, where you’ll find a stunning three mile walk along a dog-friendly sandy beach and a cliff top one for views out to sea.
Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire
Time: 2.5 hours
Setting: Parkland/woodland
Ease: Easy
Scenic rating: 4
Clumber Park is another beauty that takes you on a circular route around the National Trust house, through woodland and by the Clumber lake. In fact, you’re free to enjoy miles of paths across the estate. Great for throwing a ball, a quick swim and a bit of wildlife spotting.
Benone Strand, Londonderry
Time: 4 hours
Setting: Coastal
Ease: Easy
Scenic rating: 5
Voted Northern Ireland’s favourite dog walk in 2018, we can see why. Benone Strand is part of one of Ireland’s longest beaches, with seven whole miles of golden sand for you both to roam and play on. It’s the perfect spot for them – and a treat for you too – we’ll gladly look at those magnificent mountains and stunning views for hours.
Three Cliffs Bay, Wales
Time: 1.5 hours (for the Parkmill to Three Cliffs Circular Walk)
Setting: Coastal
Ease: Average – Hard (check tides)
Scenic rating: 5
The clue is in the name here for this wild stretch of the Welsh coastline. All sand dunes, beaches and salt marshes, the beach at Three Cliffs Bay is dog-friendly all year round and we love the 7-mile walk from there to Oxwich Bay. It’s easier at low tide than high tide (but still passable) so pack your wellies and be prepared for 800ft of ascent. You’ll be rewarded for your efforts with spectacular views.
Epping Forest, London
Time: 2-3 hours
Setting: Coastal
Ease: Easy/moderate
Scenic rating: 5
Our favourite for just-out-the-city dog walking fun is London’s Epping Forest. It covers an enormous 5,900 acres of ancient woodland and there are nine waymarked trails for you and your dog to explore. From a lakeside stroll to a wander by the historic Copped Hall Mansion, with this much space on offer, it’s easy to have any adventure you fancy.