The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Bessborough Reservoir

There are over 70 dog-friendly hiking trails around Bessborough Reservoir, offering a wide range of options for you and your canine companion. Most of these routes are rated as easy or moderate, making them suitable for various fitness levels.

The trails around Bessborough Reservoir are predominantly flat, featuring diverse landscapes. You'll find pleasant riverside paths along the River Thames, River Mole, and River Ember, as well as open meadows, tranquil heathland, and small sections of woodland. This variety ensures an engaging walk for both you and your dog.

Yes, many of the dog-friendly routes in the area are circular, allowing for convenient starting and ending points. For example, you could try the The Anglers of Walton – Wilde Brunch Café loop from Walton-on-Thames, which is an easy 4.4 km walk, or the slightly longer Garrick's Ait Houseboats – D'Oyly's Riverside Café loop from Hampton Court Palace at 4.9 km.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails here, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful riverside scenery, the accessible and mostly flat paths, and the opportunity to enjoy nature with their dogs away from busy roads. The variety of landscapes, from heathland to riverbanks, is also frequently highlighted.

While many trails are easy, there are options for longer walks. For a moderate challenge, consider the Hampton Court Bridge – Hampton Court Palace loop from Hampton Court Palace. This route spans over 18 km, offering a more extended adventure for you and your energetic dog.

Yes, the Molesey Heath Nature Reserve offers a peaceful environment with paths winding through heathland and alongside the River Mole. While not one of the specific komoot routes listed in this guide, it's a well-known local spot for tranquil walks with your dog.

Absolutely. Many routes follow the River Thames, offering picturesque views of islands and houseboats, such as those seen on the Garrick's Ait Houseboats loop. The area itself acts as a 'green buffer' with diverse natural features, providing scenic beauty throughout your walk.

The trails around Bessborough Reservoir are enjoyable year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer is great for riverside walks. Even in winter, the predominantly flat and well-maintained paths make for accessible walks, though some areas might be muddy after rain.

While specific establishments aren't listed in the route details, the presence of routes like Riverhouse Barn Community Café – The Anglers of Walton loop from Walton-on-Thames suggests that there are cafes and pubs in nearby towns like Walton-on-Thames and Hampton Court that cater to hikers. It's always a good idea to check with individual establishments regarding their dog-friendly policies before visiting.

The region is well-connected, with towns like Walton-on-Thames and Hampton Court Palace serving as starting points for several routes. These areas typically have good public transport links, including train stations, making it possible to access many trailheads without a car. Always check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.

While public access to Bessborough Reservoir itself is restricted, the surrounding areas are popular for dog walking. The Knight and Bessborough Reservoirs are a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to their wildfowl populations. When walking near these sensitive areas, it's especially important to keep dogs under close control, ideally on a lead, to protect wildlife and ensure their safety.