Hiking with Your Dog: Complete Gear and Trail Guide

Hiking with your dog in the UK: what to know before you go

Exploring the UK’s rolling hills, coastal paths, and scenic national parks is even more enjoyable with your dog by your side. Whether you’re walking the Lake District, navigating the Brecon Beacons, or following clifftop trails in Cornwall, hiking with your dog can be a rewarding and safe experience when you’re well-prepared.

This guide covers everything you need to know about hiking with your dog in the UK, including legal advice, essential gear, safety tips, and the best dog-friendly walking routes.

Are dogs allowed on UK hiking trails?

Yes, dogs are allowed on most UK trails, but there are a few rules and common courtesies to follow:

• Public rights of way: Dogs are welcome on public footpaths, bridleways, and byways, but must be kept under control.
• The countryside code: Always keep your dog on a lead near livestock and be aware of ground-nesting birds, especially during spring and summer.
• National parks: All UK national parks allow dogs, but leash rules vary by location. Check local guidance before visiting.
• Protected areas: In nature reserves and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), some restrictions may apply seasonally.

Tip: Use the OS Maps app or website to plan routes that are both scenic and dog-friendly.

Essential dog hiking gear

Just like humans, dogs need the right kit for a safe day out in the countryside. Here’s a list of essentials to pack before you hit the trail:

1. Dog harness or lead

Use a secure, padded harness with a grab handle for safety on tricky terrain. Avoid extendable leads, especially on steep or narrow paths.

2. Collapsible water bowl and fresh water

Never assume natural streams are safe to drink from. Pack enough water for both you and your dog.

3. Snacks or trail food

Take some treats or dog-friendly trail food to keep your pet energised, especially on longer hikes.

4. Weather protection

In cold weather, a dog jacket or thermal layer can help prevent hypothermia. In summer, consider a cooling vest or wet bandana.

5. Poo bags and waste pouch

Always clean up after your dog. A dedicated pouch or dispenser that clips to your bag can make this easier.

6. Paw protection

Paw balm or lightweight dog boots can protect your dog’s paws on rocky trails, snow, or hot surfaces. Scree surfaces can cut dogs paws.

Top dog-friendly hiking routes in the UK

Here are some of the best walking trails to enjoy with your dog across the UK:

Mam Tor Circular Walk (Peak District)

• Length: 4.5 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate

A popular circular walk offering fantastic views from Mam Tor summit and along the Great Ridge. Dogs will enjoy varied terrain including hills, grassland, and some rocky sections. Keep dogs on lead around sheep and livestock.

Hadrian’s Wall Path (Northumberland)

• Length: 84 miles (full trail)
• Difficulty: Moderate

A historic long-distance path running from Wallsend to Bowness-on-Solway. Ideal for multi-day walking with well-behaved dogs. Choose shorter sections for day walks. Many pubs and dog-friendly accommodations along the way.

South West Coast Path (Cornwall & Devon section)

• Length: Variable (total 630 miles, Cornwall & Devon sections approx. 185 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

This iconic coastal trail features stunning sea views, cliffs, coves, and beaches. Dog-friendly and ideal for shorter day walks or multi-day hikes. Watch for steep descents and ascents. Dogs may enjoy swimming in many spots.

Helvellyn via Striding Edge (Lake District)

• Length: 6.5 miles (circular route)
• Difficulty: Challenging

A thrilling and popular Lake District scramble with exposed ridges and stunning summit views. Suitable for confident hikers and dogs experienced on rocky terrain. Dogs should be kept on lead in exposed sections for safety. Alternative and easier routes for dogs can be found from Thrilmere or via Dolly Wagon Pike.

View route on OS Maps | Download GPX

Fairfield Horseshoe (Lake District)

• Length: 10.5 miles
• Difficulty: Challenging

This classic Lake District horseshoe walk offers incredible panoramic views from eight Wainwright peaks. Best suited to experienced hikers and fit dogs with good off-lead recall. There are exposed ridges and steep ascents, so caution is advised in poor weather. Bring plenty of water and keep dogs on-lead near sheep. Dog friendly pubs can be found in Ambleside or Rydal.

View route on OS Maps | Download GPX

Tolkien Trail (Lancashire)

• Length: 5.5 miles
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

This scenic loop near the village of Hurst Green explores woodlands, riversides, and farmland believed to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth. It’s ideal for well-behaved dogs with decent recall, though parts of the trail pass through grazing fields. Expect muddy sections after rain – dog towels recommended.

Malham Cove & Gordale Scar (Yorkshire Dales)

• Length: 4.5 to 6 miles (loop option)
• Difficulty: Moderate

A dramatic circular route through some of the most striking limestone scenery in the Dales. Dogs will love the variety — rivers, cliffs, gorges — but take care on slippery rock steps and steep climbs. Sheep are common, so a lead is essential in many parts. The area can be busy on weekends.

Yorkshire Wolds Way (East Yorkshire)

• Length: Variable (entire route 79 miles)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Gentle rolling hills, quiet countryside, and plenty of off-lead opportunities make the Wolds Way a peaceful choice for dog walking. Choose a short section near Thixendale or Welton for a half-day walk. These paths are less crowded than other national trails and well-maintained year-round.

Ben A’an (Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, Scotland)

• Length: 2.5 miles (out-and-back)
• Difficulty: Moderate

This short but steep hike rewards walkers with panoramic views over Loch Katrine and the surrounding Trossachs. It’s a manageable hill climb for active dogs and a great introduction to Scottish peak walking. The trail is well-defined but can be rocky and muddy. Keep dogs on-lead near the summit and during busy times.

Pen y Fan via the Horseshoe Ridge (Brecon Beacons, Wales)

• Length: 8 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Wales’ highest peak, Pen y Fan, offers a fantastic dog-friendly day hike via the quieter Horseshoe Ridge route. This loop includes Corn Du, Cribyn, and Fan y Big, providing stunning views across the Beacons. Dogs should be on a lead near livestock and drop-offs. There are stream crossings along the way — ideal for a quick water stop.

Arnside Knott & Silverdale Coastal Loop (Cumbria/Lancashire Border)

• Length: 4.5 miles
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers a lovely mix of woodland trails, open knott top views, and tidal coastal paths. Dogs will enjoy the freedom and variety of terrain. Be aware of shifting tides and livestock in some pastures. Arnside Knott itself offers an easy climb with great views of the Kent Estuary and Lake District fells. The Bob In Cafe near Arnside offers great food and is dog friendly.

Dog-friendly hiking routes with pubs

Roseberry Topping & The King’s Head Inn (North York Moors)

• Length: 3 to 5 miles (circular options)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Pub: The King’s Head Inn, Newton under Roseberry

A short but iconic hill walk with panoramic views, followed by hearty food and dog treats at a well-known walkers’ inn with outdoor seating and water bowls.

Dovedale to Milldale & The Dog-Friendly Izaak Walton Hotel Bar (Peak District)

• Length: 4.5 miles (linear)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Pub: The Izaak Walton Hotel Bar, near Dovedale

A scenic riverside stroll through limestone valleys, ending near a peaceful beer garden with a dog-friendly bar. Ideal for calm walks and well-behaved pups.

Ilkley Moor & The Cow and Calf (West Yorkshire)

• Length: 5 miles (circular)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Pub: The Cow and Calf, Ilkley

A classic moorland walk with gritstone outcrops and stunning views. The pub is right beside the walking route and offers dog biscuits and water bowls.

Llangollen Canal & The Sun Trevor Inn (North Wales)

• Length: 4 to 6 miles (out-and-back)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Pub: The Sun Trevor, Llangollen

Gentle canal-side walking past historic locks and viaducts. The pub has dog-friendly indoor and outdoor seating with scenic views of the Dee Valley.

Blakeney to Morston Quay Circular & The Anchor Inn (North Norfolk Coast)

• Length: 4 miles (circular coastal walk)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Pub: The Anchor Inn, Morston

A breezy coastal walk ideal for dogs that love the sea air. The Anchor offers top-notch seasonal food and welcomes dogs inside with a biscuit jar behind the bar.

Dog hiking etiquette

Responsible dog owners help keep the countryside clean and welcoming for everyone. Follow these best practices:

• Keep dogs on a lead near livestock, and avoid fields with grazing animals if possible.
• Not everyone loves dogs — keep yours under control around walkers, children, or cyclists.
• Stick to marked trails to prevent damage to habitats and crops.
• Always pick up and carry out dog waste if there are no bins nearby.

Preparing for emergencies

It’s always a good idea to bring a small dog first aid kit. Essentials include:

• Tick remover
• Bandages or gauze
• Saline for eye flushing
• Emergency contact details for the nearest vet

Save the contact number of a 24-hour vet clinic near your destination, especially if you’re heading into remote areas.

Recommended dog hiking gear

Here are a few tried-and-tested products that can make your hike safer and more enjoyable for both of you:

Explore our full collection of dog hiking gear.

Conclusion

The UK is full of incredible places to explore with your dog — from moorland and mountains to forests and coastal cliffs. With a bit of planning and the right equipment, hiking with your dog can be safe, fun, and memorable.

So grab your rucksack, leash up your dog, and start your next adventure together.

Shop dog hiking essentials

Looking for reliable gear for your next trail day? Check out our full range of dog hiking equipment designed for UK conditions.