Exploring the great outdoors with your furry friend is one of life’s greatest joys.
Whether you’re looking for rolling hills, scenic woodlands, or expansive moorland, the UK is home to some incredible countryside walks perfect for dogs.
We’ve put together some of the best spots to help you plan your next big adventure with your pup.
Long Mynd, Shropshire
Address: Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd, Church Stretton, Shropshire, SY6 6JG
Long Mynd, located in the heart of the Shropshire Hills – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – offers breathtaking panoramic views of Shropshire and an abundance of local wildlife.
This vast expanse of open moorland is perfect for adventures, allowing dogs to roam and explore the heather-clad hills. With numerous trails, including Carding Mill Valley, you and your pup can enjoy a variety of walking routes, from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes. Be sure to keep an eye out for wild ponies along the way!
Alderley Edge, Cheshire
Address: National Trust Alderley Edge, Macclesfield Road, Alderley Edge, Cheshire, SK10 4UB
Alderley Edge offers a magical woodland walk filled with ancient legends and stunning views. This National Trust-managed area is home to well-marked trails through enchanting beech and oak forests, making it a fantastic spot for an energetic dog walk.
The walk up to Stormy Point and Castle Rock rewards you with spectacular views over Cheshire and beyond. There are plenty of open spaces for a game of fetch, and your pup will love sniffing out the many intriguing scents of the forest.
Clent Hills, Worcestershire
Address: National Trust Clent Hills, Adams Hill, Clent, Stourbridge, DY9 9PS
If you’re looking for a countryside escape near Birmingham, the Clent Hills are a fantastic choice. Offering miles of open countryside, the Clent Hills feature scenic trails, woodlands, and sweeping views across the Midlands.
Dogs will love running through the open fields, while owners can enjoy breathtaking vistas from the top of the hills with the locally infamous Four Stones. The Nimmings Wood Cafe near the car park is also a great place to grab a snack before or after your walk, and they even offer dog-friendly treats!
The South Downs Way, Hampshire and East Sussex
Address: Various points of entry along the trail, starting in Winchester (SO23 9GH) and ending in Eastbourne (BN20 7YA)
For those seeking a longer walking adventure, the South Downs Way offers 100 miles of stunning countryside from Winchester to Eastbourne. This beautiful National Trail is a haven for dog walkers, with its rolling chalk hills, picturesque villages, and stunning coastal views.
While the full trail is a multi-day trek, there are plenty of shorter sections perfect for day walks with your pup. Popular starting points include Devil’s Dyke, Ditchling Beacon, and Beachy Head, where dogs can enjoy fresh air and open space to roam.
The Cotswold Way, The Cotswolds
Address: Various entry points along the trail, starting in Chipping Campden (GL55 6HB) and ending in Bath (BA1 1LP)
Another fantastic National Trail, the Cotswold Way, offers 102 miles of breathtaking landscapes through the heart of the Cotswolds. This area is famous for its charming villages, rolling hills, and picturesque woodlands.
While there are many sections to explore, some of the most dog-friendly routes include the stretch from Broadway Tower to Chipping Campden, as well as the scenic paths near Winchcombe. Along the way, you’ll find dog-friendly pubs and cosy spots to rest and refuel.
The New Forest National Park, Hampshire
Address: The New Forest Centre, Lyndhurst, Hampshire, SO43 7NY
The New Forest is a paradise for dogs and their owners. With miles of woodland trails, open heathland, and even coastal paths, it’s a truly diverse walking destination. Dogs can enjoy splashing in the streams, sniffing through ancient trees, and playing in the wide-open spaces.
The New Forest is also home to free-roaming ponies, so be sure to keep your dog under control around the wildlife. Popular walking spots include Bolderwood, Blackwater Arboretum, and the stunning Beaulieu River.
No matter which of the countryside walksyou choose, your dog will love the adventure. But don’t forget to pack plenty of fresh water, a sturdy lead, and, most importantly, some tasty Pointer Pet Treats to reward your furry friend along the way.
Whether it’s one of our crunchy grain-free Sticks, delicious Gravy Bones, or even our tasty Salmon Burgers, a little snack will keep their energy up and make the experience even more enjoyable.
So, lace up your walking boots, grab the lead, and embark on a fantastic countryside adventure with your pup!
