Top dog walks
For dog owners one clear advantage of taking a break in England is that you can take your dog on holiday with you.
Below are the top dog walks in England according to a survey undertaken by Hills Pet Nutrition. To win a year's supply of Hill's Pet Nutrition share your favourite dog walk here
Brancaster Beach, Norfolk
With its miles of golden sand this walk is a doggy paradise. Dogs love it here as there is plenty of opportunity for digging and paddling! But check before visiting as there are restrictions on dogs in certain areas and at certain times of year. There is also a charge for parking at certain times of year.
Cherwell Valley, Oxfordshire
The 4-5 hour walk travels along both the Oxford Canal and the River Cherwell and is predominately off-road which means that your dog can be off the lead for most of the way. You see some amazing wildlife including kingfishers, ducks and swans and the canal boat community, which you encounter, are always wonderfully friendly. As you walk up the hill towards Steeple Aston you will see Rousham House's 'eye catcher' - a particular highlight of the walk.
Chesterfield Canal, Derbyshire
The Chesterfield Canal was surveyed by James Brindley and finished in 1777. It linked Chesterfield to the River Trent. The walk is part of the Trans Pennine Trail and the route is easy. This is a 6 mile walk. If a shorter walk is required, starting from Tapton Lock would reduce the time and mileage.
Hollingworth Lake, Rochdale in Lanchashire
Hollingworth Lake is high in the Pennine hills above Littleborough with spectacular views over the hills around Rochdale. Built to supply water to the nearby Rochdale Canal, the Lake has been used for recreation since Victorian times, when it was known as The Weavers Seaport. Park in the Country park and follow the paths around the Lake, ending up back at the cafe, or stop off at the pubs and restaurants along the way.
Ideford Common, Devon
Ideford Common is an area of beautiful heath land and forest. Lots of footpaths linking up around the common which can take anything from 15 minutes to just under an hour depending on route and speed! All quite rough paths- can be muddy!
Ladderedge Country Park, Leek in Staffordshire
Ladderedge Country Park covers 28 ha (70 acres) of unimproved grassland and woodland, with a stream and ponds. From the hilltop there are fine views across Leek and the surrounding countryside. It is a popular place for dog walkers as it is close to residential areas, and is a beautiful and varied place to walk. There is also a dog bin at the main entrance to the Park.
Langdon Hill Wood, National Trust Golden Cap Estate in Dorset
Langdon Hill Wood is on National Trust land situated off the A35 between Bridport and Charmouth. It has a circular forest route suitable for powered vehicles. Look out for various species of trees, butterflies, birds (Buzzards and Sparrowhawks), and maybe even deer. Well behaved dogs can be off the lead as long as they stay on the track and do not veer off into the trees. By following the Coast path you will be able to see the Golden Cap, which is part of the Jurassic Coast and boasts the highest cliff on the south coast.
Loweswater, Lake District
Brilliant views down onto this quiet and peaceful lake. The view extends from the Solway Coast and Scottish hills to the north right around to the Vale of Lorton and heights of Grasmoor and Robinson, Crummock Water with Buttermere and the high fells beyond. A medium walk, but with plenty of interesting scenery. This is a peaceful walk in the northern Lakes, away from the tourists and is definitely off-the-beaten track. The Kirkstile Inn is a pleasant watering-hole where dogs are welcome except from 6pm to 10pm.
Malvern Hills, Worcestershire
There are two circular walks on the Northern Hills which can be combined into a 6 mile circuit. Both walks can be accessed from Great Malvern as well as car parks on the Hills. Two easier access trails have been constructed to enable not only wheelchair users, but everyone who finds the steeper slopes difficult, to enjoy the beauty of the Malvern Hills.
Neigh Bridge to Somerford Keynes, Gloucestershire
A peaceful four mile walk around the Cotswold Water Park area which takes in the infant Thames and lovely Cotswold countryside in Gloucestershire. The walk would appeal to everyone and even has a beach for dogs to swim! Features include part of the Thames Path National Trail - a Cotswold stone village - a country park with beaches, playgrounds, willow sculptures, wildlife, day ticket fishing, toilets as well as a shop and seasonal boat hire and cafe. The walk falls into the easy/moderate category and there are many areas where dogs can be let off leads - the walk is off road all the way. The terrain is easy with a few stiles and bridges.
Northwich Community Woodlands, Cheshire
There are circular routes to make a walk that can last over 2 hours. It is possible to walk along the river and view the Anderton Boat Lift (fairly steep hill up to Pay and Display car park at Anderton). On the whole this is a nicely enclosed area and any animals are in very secure fields so no worry about them being chased. Need to watch out for the occasional cyclist and horse rider. Access to canal towpath at one point to prolong walk further. Possibility of a paddle at "Lesley's Leap".
Richmond Park, London
There is something for everyone at Richmond Park and there are many different routes that people can choose from that will take in the panoramic view of the London City skyline. There are some great sights to see along the way i.e. White Lodge (home of the Royal Ballet School) and you can pass through a variety of landscapes, including woodlands and ponds and creeks where dogs can take a dip or have a quick drink. There are also great facilities available and there is a good selection of food and refreshments, including a great snack van in the Petersham Lodge car park which sells the most delicious bacon rolls at the half way point as well as great hot chocolate sold at the kiosk in the car park! Visitors need to be aware that three herds of deer roam freely within the park and it is also very popular with horse riders and cyclists. There is a road that runs the entire circumference of the park and this can be busy at peak times even though there is a 20mph speed limit.
Riverside Trail, Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Lying in the Stort Valley, Bishop’s Stortford is the largest town in East Hertfordshire and is an ideal center from which to explore the river valley and the local countryside on this and other gentle walks from the town centre. The Riverside Trail itself takes in some fantastic sights including the Bishop’s Stortford Museum, Grange Paddocks, Waytemore Castle, Sworders Field and the River Stort.
Tatton Park, Knutsford in Cheshire
Over 1000 acres of deer park set within National Trust property. Tea room near to the Mansion. Two meres on the Estate, so ample opportunities for a little swim. Need to be aware that there are sheep and deer roaming free so not suitable if you have a budding contestant for One Man and His Dog. Please note that to take a car into the park is £4.20, including National Trust members.
The Downs in Avon
Referred to as Bristol's 'Green Lung' The Downs consist of around 400 acres of grassland perched right on the edge of the city. A fantastic area for dogs to stretch their legs and invigorate their senses with some excellent scent trails to follow! Situated on the North West of Bristol, about 2 miles from the City Centre. The Downs can be found at the top of Whiteladies Road (A4018) or if travelling from the North of the City, Westbury Road leads to The Downs.
The Humber Foreshore and Waters' Edge, Lincolnshire
The walk starts from the Humber Bridge Viewing Area car park and the real beauty of this walk is that it can be as long or short as you want. Depending on how far you walk, you can take in the fantastic views of the Humber Bridge, the acclaimed Far Ings National Nature Reserve and the award winning Waters’ Edge Country Park and Visitor Centre, which has excellent facilities. There are many wildflowers, butterflies and birds to be seen during the summer months, and with a variety of reserves, reed beds, meadows and woodland you can be sure it will keep both you and your pooch amused!
Wonderful Washlands, Burton Upon Trent in Staffordshire
Start walk at the Stapenhill Hollows car park, off Stapenhill Road. Follow the footpath along the River Trent signposted 'Stapenhill Gardens'. You will then arrive at the beautiful floral gardens which you can walk around using the ramps or steps. From the gardens, follow the path down towards the bridge where you will find the Boathouse Inn and a refreshment kiosk. Walk along the ferry bridge as far as you like, taking in the views and wildlife of the washlands. The washlands are part of the National Forest and are a haven for wildlife, particularly birds. Follow your route back to the car park through the gardens and along the river. Alternatively, for a longer walk, continue onto the washlands but bear in mind you will have to cross back over the ferry bridge at some point in order to cross the river. If you do choose to continue your walk onto the washlands, I advise keeping your dog on a lead due to the abundance of wildlife.
To win a year's supply of Hill's Pet Nutrition share your favourite dog walk here