The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Bourton-On-The-Water

There are 15 dedicated dog-friendly hiking trails around Bourton-on-the-Water, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. Most of these, 12 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them accessible for many dogs and their owners.

Yes, many of the trails are easy and relatively flat. For a gentle stroll, consider the Bourton-on-the-Water village – River Windrush loop, which is just over 5 km with minimal elevation gain. The Windrush Way Waterside Path – Greystones Farm Nature Reserve loop is another excellent easy option, traversing ancient wildflower meadows and along the River Windrush, with paths free of slopes or stiles.

You can expect quintessential Cotswold scenery, featuring gentle slopes, rolling hills, and open farmland. Many routes follow the tranquil River Windrush and other waterways like the River Eye, offering serene riverside paths. You'll also encounter ancient woodlands, vibrant wildflower meadows, and the charming honey-coloured Cotswold stone architecture of the villages.

Absolutely! Many of the dog-friendly routes are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. The Bourton-on-the-Water village – River Windrush loop and the Coronation Footbridge – River Windrush loop are both excellent circular options that keep you close to the village.

Many trails offer glimpses of charming Cotswold features. You can explore the picturesque Bourton-on-the-Water village itself, often called the "Venice of the Cotswolds." The Windrush Way Waterside Path loop takes you through the Greystones Farm Nature Reserve, which includes the historic Salmonsbury Camp. Some routes also lead to nearby villages like Lower Slaughter, known for its traditional architecture and the Old Mill.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 700 reviews. Reviewers often praise the beautiful riverside paths, the charming village scenery, and the well-maintained trails that are perfect for walking with dogs. The variety of easy, accessible routes is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, for a more extended adventure, consider the Birdland Park & Gardens – Great Rissington Village loop, a moderate 11.8 km route. Another moderate option is the River Windrush – Bourton-on-the-Water village loop, which spans nearly 17 km and offers more significant elevation changes, providing a good workout for both you and your dog.

While many trails offer picturesque views of the rolling Cotswold hills and charming villages, the Bourton-on-the-Water & Clapton-on-the-Hill loop (not listed in the provided routes but a known local trail) is particularly noted for its panoramic vistas from Clapton-on-the-Hill. Even on flatter routes, you'll enjoy open views across farmland and meadows.

The majority of trails are easy with minimal elevation changes, often following riverbanks or gentle slopes. However, some moderate routes, like the River Windrush – Bourton-on-the-Water village loop, do involve more significant ascents and descents, reaching up to 174 meters of elevation gain. Expect a mix of well-trodden paths, grassy tracks, and potentially some muddy sections, especially after rain.

Yes, the Greystones Farm Nature Reserve is a fantastic option. It offers walking trails like the Wildlife Walk and the Time-Travel Trail, traversing ancient wildflower meadows and along the River Windrush. The reserve is managed by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and is known for its accessibility, with paths free of slopes or stiles, making it very dog-friendly.

Yes, several routes allow you to explore beyond Bourton-on-the-Water. For instance, a popular local walk connects Bourton-on-the-Water to Lower Slaughter, following the River Eye and showcasing traditional Cotswold stone architecture. Longer routes can even encompass Upper Slaughter or lead towards tranquil villages like Wyck Rissington.