The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in North East England

North East England offers a vast selection of dog-friendly trails. You can explore over 700 routes suitable for you and your canine companion, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in North East England, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from dramatic coastlines to tranquil woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable outings with their dogs.

Yes, there are plenty of easy dog-friendly walks. Over 275 routes are classified as easy, perfect for a relaxed stroll with your dog. An example is the Blanchland Geotrail, an easy 5.7 km loop that offers gentle terrain and scenic views.

Absolutely! The North East is home to spectacular waterfalls. While specific routes may vary, areas like the Durham Dales within the North Pennines AONB are renowned for falls such as High Force and Low Force. You can often find dog-friendly paths leading to these natural wonders, though some sections might require dogs to be on a lead.

The North East boasts a stunning coastline with many dog-friendly sections. The Northumberland Coast Path offers breathtaking views of sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs. While specific routes are not listed here, you'll find numerous opportunities for coastal walks, often with historical castles like Dunstanburgh and Bamburgh as a backdrop. Always check local signage for dog restrictions, especially during nesting seasons.

Yes, many of the dog-friendly trails in North East England are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the Three Becks Walk loop in Hamsterley Forest is a moderate 8 km circular route perfect for exploring woodlands with your dog.

Forests and woodlands are abundant in North East England and offer excellent dog-friendly walking opportunities. Hamsterley Forest in County Durham is a prime example, with extensive networks of paths. Kielder Water & Forest Park, England's largest forest, also provides vast spaces for you and your dog to explore amidst nature.

Yes, you can walk sections of the iconic Hadrian's Wall Path with your dog. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique blend of history and stunning landscapes. While dogs are generally welcome on the public footpaths, always keep them on a lead, especially near livestock and historical sites like Housesteads Roman Fort, which you can find more about at Roseberry Topping Summit.

For those seeking a challenge, North East England offers over 60 difficult dog-friendly routes. The North Pennines AONB, known as England's 'Last Great Wilderness,' provides expansive moorlands and demanding trails. An example of a challenging route is the Cow Green Reservoir & Cauldron Snout loop, a difficult 14.7 km hike with significant elevation changes.

Yes, several dog-friendly routes explore the scenic surroundings of reservoirs. The Around Derwent Reservoir from Pow Hill Country Park is a moderate 15 km hike that circles the beautiful Derwent Reservoir, offering lovely waterside views for you and your dog.

Beyond the trails themselves, North East England's dog-friendly routes often pass by impressive natural features. You might encounter dramatic peaks like Roseberry Topping Summit or Simonside Summit, offering panoramic views. The region is also rich in unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems, particularly within the Northumberland National Park and North Pennines AONB.

To find less crowded dog-friendly walks, consider exploring trails within the vast Northumberland National Park or the North Pennines AONB. These areas offer extensive networks of paths, allowing you to discover quieter routes away from popular hotspots. Early mornings or weekdays are also ideal for a more serene experience.