One of the greatest pleasures of taking my dogs on holiday is discovering somewhere new to explore together. Whether we’re wandering through ancient woodlands, strolling along a sandy beach or climbing to breathtaking viewpoints, every walk becomes part of the adventure.
The UK is full of incredible walking routes, and I’ve found that choosing a destination with plenty of dog-friendly walks makes a holiday far more enjoyable for everyone. In this guide, I’ll share some of the best walks near popular UK holiday destinations, along with practical tips to help you make the most of your adventures.
At a Glance
🐶 Best for: Dog owners planning a UK holiday
🥾 Walk Difficulty: Easy to moderate
📍 Destinations Covered: Lake District, Cornwall, Scottish Highlands, Yorkshire Dales and Norfolk
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn
💷 Cost: Mostly free (parking charges may apply)
Why Great Walks Make Better Holidays
For many dogs, a holiday isn’t about the accommodation—it’s about the places they get to explore. New scents, different landscapes and exciting adventures provide wonderful mental stimulation and help burn off plenty of energy.
A good walk can help your dog:
- Burn off travel stress
- Settle more quickly in new surroundings
- Stay mentally stimulated
- Sleep better after a day of exploring
- Build confidence in unfamiliar places
I always try to include at least one great walk every day while we’re away. A tired dog usually means a happy and relaxed evening for everyone.
How I Choose Dog Walks While on Holiday
Whenever I visit somewhere new, I try to choose walks that suit both my dogs and the location. Not every route is suitable for every dog, so I always think about things like fitness levels, terrain and the weather.
When choosing a walk, I look for:
- Clearly marked footpaths
- Plenty of open space
- Fresh water nearby
- Safe places to stop and rest
- Dog-friendly cafés or pubs nearby
- Parking facilities
- Livestock or wildlife restrictions
Spending five minutes researching before setting off often saves a lot of hassle later.
The Best Dog Walks in the Lake District
The Lake District is one of the UK’s most famous walking destinations, offering everything from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging mountain hikes.
Tarn Hows Circular Walk
Distance: Approximately 3 km
Difficulty: Easy
This beautiful circular walk is suitable for most dogs and offers stunning lake views without steep climbs.
Why I Recommend It
- Wide, accessible paths
- Beautiful scenery
- Plenty of places to stop
- Suitable for most ages
Catbells
If your dog enjoys climbing and is reasonably fit, Catbells offers one of the most rewarding walks in the Lake District.
Distance: Approximately 6 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Expect spectacular views across Derwentwater.
Grasmere Lakeside Walk
Perfect if you’re looking for a shorter, more relaxed stroll with plenty of places to stop for refreshments afterwards.
Top Tips for Walking in the Lake District
✔ Keep dogs on leads around sheep.
✔ Carry waterproof clothing—the weather changes quickly.
✔ Arrive early during summer to avoid busy car parks.
The Best Dog Walks in Cornwall
Cornwall combines dramatic coastal scenery with fantastic beaches and countryside trails.
South West Coast Path (St Agnes to Chapel Porth)
Distance: Approximately 4 km one way
One of Cornwall’s most spectacular coastal walks, offering incredible sea views throughout.
Godrevy Beach
A fantastic choice for energetic dogs who love running across open sand.
Lizard Peninsula
Quiet, rugged and packed with wildlife, this is perfect if you prefer avoiding crowds.
Top Tips for Walking in Cornwall
✔ Check seasonal beach restrictions.
✔ Carry plenty of water in summer.
✔ Keep dogs away from cliff edges.
The Best Dog Walks in the Scottish Highlands
The Highlands provide endless opportunities for adventure.
Glenmore Forest Park
Beautiful woodland walks suitable for all abilities.
Loch Morlich
A peaceful lochside walk with sandy beaches and forest trails.
Glencoe Valley
One of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Suitable for experienced walkers with energetic dogs.
Top Tips for Walking in Scotland
✔ Watch for deer and wildlife.
✔ Be prepared for changing weather.
✔ Pack insect repellent during midge season.
The Best Dog Walks in the Yorkshire Dales
Rolling countryside and picturesque villages make this region perfect for relaxed walking holidays.
Malham Cove
Perhaps the Yorkshire Dales’ most iconic walk.
Expect dramatic limestone scenery and unforgettable views.
Bolton Abbey Estate
Easy riverside walks suitable for most dogs.
Aysgarth Falls
A wonderful woodland walk featuring beautiful waterfalls.
Top Tips for Walking in the Yorkshire Dales
✔ Respect livestock.
✔ Wear sturdy footwear.
✔ Some paths can become muddy after rain.
The Best Dog Walks in Norfolk
Norfolk offers wide beaches, peaceful countryside and flatter terrain that’s ideal for older dogs.
Holkham Beach
One of the UK’s finest dog-friendly beaches.
There’s endless space for running and exploring.
Wells-next-the-Sea
A lovely combination of beach and woodland walks.
Sheringham Park
Beautiful woodland trails with spectacular seasonal colours.
Top Tips for Walking in Norfolk
✔ Check seasonal restrictions on beaches.
✔ Arrive early on sunny weekends.
✔ Take fresh water during warmer months.
What I Pack for Every Dog Walk
I never head out without a few essentials.
My walking bag usually contains:
- Fresh water
- Collapsible travel bowl
- Poo bags
- Spare lead
- Long training lead
- Dog treats
- Towel
- Tick remover
- Basic pet first aid kit
- Fully charged mobile phone
👉 Related: Dog Travel Essentials: What I Never Leave Home Without
Walking Etiquette When Exploring Somewhere New
Sharing outdoor spaces responsibly helps keep destinations dog friendly for everyone.
I always try to:
- Keep my dogs under control.
- Pick up after them.
- Respect local wildlife.
- Close gates behind me.
- Follow local signage.
- Use a lead where required.
- Respect other walkers and cyclists.
Being a responsible dog owner helps ensure these wonderful places remain welcoming for years to come.
The Best Time of Year for Dog Walking Holidays
🌸 Spring
Cool temperatures, wildflowers and quieter walking routes make spring one of my favourite times to travel.
☀️ Summer
Longer days are perfect for exploring, but remember to avoid walking during the hottest part of the day.
🍂 Autumn
Autumn offers comfortable temperatures, colourful scenery and fewer crowds—ideal for both dogs and owners.
❄️ Winter
Winter walks can be magical, but always check weather conditions and daylight hours before setting off.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far should I walk my dog on holiday?
Dogs often become more tired in unfamiliar surroundings because they’re using both physical and mental energy. Start with shorter walks and gradually increase the distance depending on your dog’s fitness and behaviour.
Are dogs allowed on UK national park trails?
Yes. Most UK national parks welcome dogs, although many require them to be kept on leads around livestock and wildlife.
Can dogs be off lead on public footpaths?
Dogs can often be off lead if they are under close control, but always check local rules and use a lead where livestock, wildlife or other hazards are present.
Which UK national park is best for dogs?
The Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and Cairngorms National Park are among the most popular destinations thanks to their extensive walking networks and dog-friendly facilities.
What should I bring on a dog walk while travelling?
Take water, a collapsible bowl, poo bags, a lead, treats, a towel and a small first aid kit to help keep your dog comfortable and safe.
What should I do if my dog becomes tired?
Allow your dog plenty of time to rest, offer fresh water and shorten the walk if necessary. Remember that new environments can be much more tiring than familiar routes.
Related Articles
Continue planning your perfect dog-friendly holiday:
- The Ultimate Guide to Dog-Friendly Holidays in the UK
- How to Prepare Your Dog for Travel
- Dog Travel Essentials: What I Never Leave Home Without
- How to Find Dog-Friendly Accommodation in the UK
- Dog-Friendly Beaches in the UK (Coming Soon)
Final Thoughts
One of the best parts of any holiday is discovering somewhere new together. Whether you’re exploring the mountains of Scotland, strolling along Cornwall’s coastline or enjoying a peaceful woodland trail in Norfolk, every walk creates memories you’ll treasure long after you’ve returned home.
For me, the perfect holiday ends with tired dogs, muddy paws and everyone relaxing after a day of adventure. I hope this guide inspires you to explore some of the UK’s most beautiful dog-friendly walking destinations with your own four-legged companions.