The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Peak District

The Peak District offers a vast network of dog-friendly trails. On komoot, you'll find over 780 routes suitable for hiking with your dog, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks. This includes over 280 easy routes, 440 moderate routes, and nearly 60 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for every dog and owner.

The Peak District's diverse geology means you'll encounter varied terrain. The Dark Peak (north) features rugged gritstone moorlands, rocky paths, and peat bogs, while the White Peak (south) offers rolling green hills, limestone dales, and riverside paths. Many trails follow ancient tracks, disused railway lines, or well-maintained footpaths, but be prepared for some uneven surfaces, ascents, and descents, especially on routes like the Mam Tor and the Great Ridge Circular.

While no specific permits are required for dog walking, it's crucial to follow the Countryside Code. Dogs must be kept on a lead around livestock, on open access land between March 1st and July 31st (ground-nesting bird season), and at all times in certain sensitive areas. Always pick up after your dog and dispose of waste responsibly. Some areas, like nature reserves, may have additional restrictions, so always check local signage.

Many trails in the Peak District boast spectacular views. The Mam Tor and the Great Ridge Circular provides stunning panoramic vistas of the Hope Valley. For dramatic gritstone scenery, consider routes around Stanage Edge or the Eastern Edges (Froggatt, Curbar, and Bamford Edge), such as the Frogatt, Curbar and White Edge Red Deer Circular Walk, which offers views over the moorlands.

Yes, the Peak District is excellent for circular walks, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. Many of the routes on komoot are circular, including popular options like the Mam Tor and the Great Ridge Circular or the Ladybower Reservoir loop, which offers a longer, more challenging option.

Finding trails completely free of stiles can be challenging in the Peak District, as many paths cross agricultural land. However, converted railway trails like the Monsal Trail or Tissington Trail are generally stile-free and offer accessible, flat walking surfaces. These are excellent options for those with limited mobility or larger dogs who struggle with stiles.

The Peak District is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can explore iconic peaks like Kinder Scout (with its Kinder Downfall waterfall) or Mam Tor. The region also features dramatic gritstone edges such as Stanage Edge, and picturesque valleys like Dovedale with its famous stepping stones. You might also encounter ancient stone circles or old quarries. For specific highlights, consider visiting Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls or the scenic Monsal Dale Weir.

Spring and autumn are often considered the best times for hiking with dogs in the Peak District. The weather is generally milder, and the landscapes are vibrant with new growth or autumnal colours. Summer can be beautiful but also busier, and paths can be exposed to strong sun. Winter offers dramatic, quieter landscapes, but trails can be muddy, icy, or snowy, requiring appropriate gear and caution. Always be mindful of ground-nesting bird season (March 1st to July 31st) when dogs must be on a lead on open access land.

Yes, the Peak District is generally very dog-friendly, and you'll find many pubs and cafes that welcome well-behaved dogs, often with water bowls and treats available. Many villages nestled within the park, such as Castleton, Edale, or Hathersage, have establishments that cater to hikers and their canine companions. It's always a good idea to check with the specific establishment beforehand, especially if you plan to eat indoors.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in the Peak District, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning and varied scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the sense of adventure. Many appreciate the clear signage and the availability of routes for all fitness levels, making it easy to find the perfect outing for both themselves and their dogs.

While popular spots can get busy, especially on weekends, you can find quieter trails by exploring less-known areas or visiting during off-peak times (weekdays, early mornings, or late afternoons). The Peak District has 555 square miles of land, so venturing slightly off the most famous routes can lead to peaceful discoveries. Consider exploring parts of the Eastern Edges away from the main car parks, or some of the trails in the northern Dark Peak, which tend to be more rugged and less frequented.