Top 10 dog walks in the UK

We have tried to include routes from Lands End to John O’Groats. And, as all of our top 10 walks in the UK are located in beautiful spots and take in footpaths, areas of beauty, and national parks - you’ll find one that catches both your and your dog’s attention!

Where can I walk my dog locally?

We are so lucky in the UK! There are miles and miles of footpaths and public rights of way to enjoy. Walking possibilities are endless and, quite often, you don’t have to travel far. If you are wondering ‘how do I find dog walks near me?’ we recommend buying an Ordnance Survey Map of your area. It will show all the footpaths, bridleways, public rights of way, and open spaces where you live. You never know; your favourite dog walk might be just down the road!

Top 10 dog walks in the UK 

So, starting off in Scotland and working our way South, here are our top 10 dog walks in the UK.

Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye

Following a short route alongside the dramatic yet treacherous Cuillin Mountains, this walk takes you to one of Scotland’s most magical beauty spots, the Fairy Pools. Taking in the beautiful, windswept Isle of Skye, this route is suitable for most walkers and their dogs at 7.19km.

Discover the stunning waterfalls of the Fairy Pools and if it’s hot, take a towel. You and your dog may fancy a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Allt a’ Choire Ghreadaidh! Have a look at the entire Fairy Pool route here.

Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh

If you find yourself in Edinburgh, an essential dog walk is the short but strenuous trek up to the summit of Arthur’s Seat. The walk starts out across rolling grassland on top of the remains of an ancient volcano. Don’t worry, it’s dormant! Continue climbing to the peak to enjoy the panoramic views of the city and what remains of the 2000-year-old hill fort.

An excellent walk for anyone who enjoys geology and diverse flora, the area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. We guarantee it is worth the effort! Find details of the walk here.

Durham Coastal Footpath, County Durham 

If you have a full day to spare, consider taking the magnificent Durham Coastal Footpath from Seaham to Crimdon. At 11 miles long, be sure to take refreshments for you and your dog! You’ll take in the unique and spectacular coastal landscape where the limestone landscape supports many wildflowers, insects, and bird species. As you go on, the route heads into ancient woodland full of native oaks, ash and yew trees and wildlife.

A challenging route at 11 miles long, be sure to take refreshments for you and your dog! Experienced walkers will easily complete this walk in a day.

Rydal Water, Lake District

No ‘Top 10 dog walks in the UK’ list would be complete without a route that takes in the magnificent Lake District National Park! This 5.5 mile circular walk around Rydal Water is perfect for anyone wanting a leisurely stroll. Enjoy lakeside views, explore some caves and breath in the oxygen-rich fresh air. Once you and your dog are ready for a rest, take a break in Grasmere at one of the many dog-friendly pubs and cafes.

If you and your pup still have plenty of energy left, there are options to extend this route to include the ever-popular Ambleside and Loghrigg Tarn. Have a look at the route and add-on options here.

Buckden Pike, Yorkshire Dales

It’s hard to choose a great dog walk in the Yorkshire Dales as there are so many! We have decided on the hike up to Buckden Pike, one of the ‘Dales 30’ mountains. It’s a challenging walk if you aren’t too fit, simply because it is 457 meters to the fell’s summit. But it is absolutely worth it, as the views from the top are magnificent.

Don’t be put off by the uphill trek, as whatever goes up needs to come down! And, when you finally get back to the village of Upper Wharfedale, the pubs are highly recommended for both man and dog. Explore the walk here.

Beddgelert and Aberglaslyn Walk, Snowdonia

Don’t think that all walks in Snowdonia involve an exhausting hike up the mountain! The national park is full of great walks for you and your dog and one of the best is the 7.71km circular starting from the pretty village of Beddgelert. Follow the Afon Glaslyn onto Gelert’s Grave to take in a bit of medieval folklore.

The walk loops back through the Pass of Aberglaslyn and a couple of ruinous old copper mines. You’ll get great views at various points on this walk, and you’ll really be able to connect with the spirit of Wales. Read more about this highly recommended Welsh walk!

Rhinefield Ornamental Drive Walk, New Forest

Heading further South is the wonderful New Forest National Park, a treasure chest of walks for you and your dog. The Rhinefield Ornamental Drive Walk takes in the majestic non-native sequoia redwoods, conifers, azaleas & rhododendrons, planted by a forest worker in the 1800s. An easy, level route, this walk stops off at Blackwater Arboretum. Your dog gets to run free and explore the smells of the forest while you get to enjoy the vast collection of unusual trees.

Watch out for donkeys, ponies, deer, cows, and even pigs roaming free within the forest. If your dog is prone to chasing wildlife, you may have to pop them on a lead for this walk.  Find the route here.

Salisbury to Stonehenge via Amesbury Walk, Wiltshire

You and your dog get to take in one of the Wonders of the World on this fabulous Wiltshire walk. Stonehenge! The route takes you across the rolling chalk farmland of Southern England, with gentle inclines and beautiful views. The whole route is 15.8 miles and takes in Salisbury Cathedral and Old Sarum, with a chance to stop off for a reviving lunch at a popular riverside pub. 

If you think this walk is a bit too far, there are options to shorten it and walk from Amesbury to Stonehenge. Nothing beats coming across the downland and taking in the first view of the mystical and magical Stonehenge. Read about the options here. 

Wells Beach and Pinewoods Walk, Norfolk

This walk has it all! Golden sand dunes, pine-filled woodlands, and the busy harbourside of Wells-Next-to-the-Sea. Your dog is sure to enjoy exploring the dunes while you take in the fresh sea air and picture-perfect coloured beach huts. It’s a level walk so suitable for all levels of fitness. Even though it is 7.62km long, there are plenty of chances to stop off for refreshments along the way. 

There’s a chance to extend this walk to Holkham Gap if you or your dog require the exercise. If not, head off for some fish and chips when you are done! Explore the Wells beach walk here.

Best dog walk in the UK! Lizard Point to Mullion Cove, Cornwall

This was such a tough call; how do you decide which is the best dog walk in the UK? In our humble opinion, the absolute best dog walk in the UK has to be, drum roll please… Lizard Point to Mullion Cove in Cornwall!

There are no better views than those found on this 5.5 mile walk, taking in the most Southerly point in Britain. Don’t be deceived into thinking it’s easy peasy! All walks on the South Coast Path involve some steep inclines and declines, and this route is no exception. But, delicate wildflowers, breath taking views, towering cliffs, and the general wildness of this walk make the exertion totally worth the effort.

Find out more about the Lizard Point to Mullion Cove walk here.

Fingers crossed you’re inspired to get out and about with your dog to explore one of the top 10 dog walks in the UK. Whether you end up in the North or South of this fantastic island, we hope you and your dog have a fabulous time!