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We're blessed in the UK to have amazing hikes all over the country. It's helped by organisations like the National Trust and the National Park Authority, who do a fantastic job providing safe, accessible dog-friendly routes.
But you may be struggling, asking for "what are the best dog hikes near me" or feeling overwhelmed with choice.
Thankfully, we're here to help. Find the best dog-friendly hikes in the UK, so get your walking shoes ready.
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Best dog-friendly hikes in England
The Lake District: Catbells & Derwentwater Loop
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The Lake District is world-famous for its stunning views and trails. But for us, the Catbells & Derwentwater Loop is our favourite for a dog-friendly walk.
The paths are well-maintained around the trail and clearly marked, but it does get busy. We recommend going early if you can. It's an easy, moderate trail with some of the best panoramic views in the UK.
The South Downs: Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk
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The Seven Sisters Cliffs walk is a popular hike in South Downs. It's a challenging walk with fresh coastal views and moderate ascents through the rolling hills.
It's a popular spot thanks to its stunning views, clifftop walks and rocky beaches. It's easily accessible from London too. But you must keep your dog on a leash - sometimes, it's a perilous walk.
Be aware that this area does attract crowds and has the potential for slippery trails.
For stunning coastal views with a challenging walk, this is it. But make sure your dog is on a lead and you've leash-trained them.
The Peak District: Mam Tor & The Great Ridge
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The Mam Tor and Great Ridge walk is one of the Peak District's highlights, and it's generally seen as a dog-friendly walk. But it's another where you must make sure your pup is on a lead, as there are some stiles to jump over and livestock on the trails.
It can get busy, and if the crowds are too much, we recommend starting at Edale for a potentially easier, quieter climb.
Make sure you wear appropriate clothing (pups included!) and footwear, as the trails can get dangerous when the weather turns bad.
Outside of the potential livestock, stiles and crowds, it's a refreshing trail with stunning views. We recommend it as an exciting way to experience what the Peak District has to offer.
New Forest National Park
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For those who love shaded, refreshing forest trails, you can't go wrong with the New Forest National Park near Southampton. The area offers a variety of strolls, from steady, short hikes to challenging, longer walks. But all of them share one thing: deep, green forest views and old, picturesque woodland.
Hikers love walking around here with their dogs due to the variety of landscapes and wildlife. But be aware: the area has free-roaming ponies and deer, so make sure your dog is on a leash when you ramble through these areas.
Follow the usual safety precautions in bad weather. Stay prepare for boggy conditions and horseflies.
Top dog-friendly hikes in Scotland
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs: Conic Hill Trail
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This beautiful walk in the heart of one of southern Scotland's most scenic spots is a go-to hike for anyone in the area. But it does come with some caveats for dogs: they must be kept on a lead since there are so many sheep and Highland cattle hanging around.
This moderately challenging, short trail meanders through a mix of forest, hill and cobbled paths, and the view from the summit is truly out of this world.
This path can become very slippery, and there may be some restrictions in place during lambing season (around February to April).
For a moderately dog-friendly walk that promises a splash of Scottish charm, hikers strongly recommend this one.
The Cairngorms: Ryvoan Pass & Green Lochan
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Nestled in the Cairngorms National Park is this dog-friendly walk through forested paths and scenic lochs. Dogs are welcome on the trails, as long as they have a leash (which is enforced by many areas in the Cairngorms) since the chances of meeting fellow hikers and Scotland's wildlife are high.
Some areas of the walk, particularly around the Ryvoan Pass, have a steeper terrain and high potential for rough footing, particularly in wet conditions.
One key hazard to be aware of is the presence of blue-green algae in the lochs, which can harm dogs. Don't let your dog swim or drink the water.
Isle of Skye: The Quiraing Walk
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If you're lucky enough to be on the Isle of Skye, then hikers recommend the beautiful Quiraing walk (with some reservations). This rugged walk with breathtaking views is suitable for most dogs, but it's important to prepare for some challenges, like uneven terrain, scrambles and livestock.
There are quite a few cliff edges and drops on this walk, so be careful if you're walking with your dog or children. We recommend using a leash for your dog, especially near edges or steep sections. There are livestock too, so if your dog is prone to chasing, please use a leash.
Overall, prepare accordingly, and The Quiraing is a rewarding walk with a splash of some of Scotland's best views.
Scenic dog walks in Wales
Snowdonia National Park: Cwm Idwal Circular Walk
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For such a small country, Wales has quite a few National Parks, and if you're up north, then the Cwm Idwal Circular Walk is our pick in Snowdonia.
Hikers generally consider this walk dog-friendly. But it's quite hard on the steep sections, so we don't recommend this for smaller, low-energy breeds or ones that struggle with exercise. Dogs are welcome on a leash.
Since it gets so steep, we recommend wearing good footwear and only going when the weather is good.
The challenging sections are worth it, as you'll see staggering views of the region's glacial valley.
Pembrokeshire Coastal Path: St David’s Head
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The Wales Coastal Path stretches across the entire country's coastline, but where do you start? What's the best bit? You can't go wrong with any of it, but we like the St David's Head section.
This area offers stunning coastal views, wildlife spotting and streams to paddle in. But you should try to keep your dog on a leash near the cliff edges and near livestock.
You can even check out Whitesands Bay which is a cracking beach. But some parts of it restrict dogs in the summer.
Dogs are mostly welcome on the Coastal Path, but some areas may have restrictions at certain times of the year.
Brecon Beacons: The Four Falls Trail
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You've probably heard of the Brecon Beacons, but there are so many walks to choose from that it's difficult to know what to pick. Almost all are dog-friendly, but we recommend The Four Falls Trail so you and your dog can see what "Waterfall Country" has to offer.
The walk is generally considered dog-friendly, but they'll need to be on a leash in some areas, especially if you're going in the peak months (summer).
The trail offers lots of chances for your dog to play in the water as you move up and down through the forests and hills of South Wales's National Park. But please be aware of currents and blue-green algae. Our blue-green algae guide is essential reading, and you should also know how to keep your dog safe when swimming.
If you're a fan of hikes and waterfalls, this is the walk for you.
Best dog-friendly trails in Northern Ireland
Giant’s Causeway & Causeway Coast Way
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With a mix of clifftop trails and beach views, the Giant's Causeway walk lets you see one of Northern Ireland's most famous natural landmarks.
Dogs on leads are welcome on many parts of the Causeway Coast Way path, and Ballintoy to Portballintrae is considered by locals as the best dog-friendly walk in the area.
It's important to check areas for their rules before going, though. Some trails in the area have specific guidance on dogs. For example, at Carrick-a-Rede, dogs can't cross the rope bridge that forms a part of the walk, which could scupper your plans. Check ahead, and plan accordingly.
If you're headed to one of Northern Ireland's tourist hotspots with your dog in tow, then this could be the walk for you.
Mourne Mountains: Slieve Binnian Trail
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The Slieve Binnian is a challenging but rewarding circular hike that gives you and your dog a highlight reel of the Mourne Mountains.
Hikers see this trail as reasonably dog-friendly, but there are some areas with difficult terrain. Dogs must be on a leash, and some areas state that no dogs are allowed. We recommend researching your specific route to see if it's entirely dog-friendly.
Since the terrain can get challenging at times, we recommend avoiding it or preparing well if the weather is wet or cold.
It's a high-altitude trek with rewarding views. But it's probably one for dogs that are more suited to intense exercise.
Tollymore Forest Park
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Hikers often recommend Tollymore Forest Park as a dog-friendly walk with various trails, lots of woodland and off-leash areas with vivid, natural beauty.
Some trails can get muddy and remember: not all areas are off-leash friendly. Prepare in advance and put your dog on a leash when needed.
For a woodland adventure with lots of dog-friendly amenities and scenic views, this is a strong recommendation.
Quick tips for dog-friendly hiking
Pack your essentials: pet-friendly first-aid kit, travel-friendly bowl, lead, waste bags, water, etc.
Check the trail's regulations beforehand, and be aware of any wildlife or trail hazards that can impact your dog.
Avoid going during bad weather, like heat, cold and very wet conditions.
Pick the best time to go for your dog. For example, if they're nervous around others, go at an off-peak time (but not at night).
Our essential dog walk travel accessories guide can help, too.
Keeping your hikes safe with dog insurance
Outside of looking for "the best dog-friendly hikes near me", you need to make sure you're prepared, too.
Dog insurance can help you prepare for the unexpected, plus you'll get 24/7 access to video vet calls and a host of ManyPets Perks with us.
Plus, ManyPets Approved can help you find recommended dog-friendly spots like pubs and activities to complement your hike.
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