10 dog-friendly walks in the Peak District
From the deep valley of Padley Gorge to the summit of Kinder Scout
Posted on 06-11-24, updated on 13-01-25By: Sarah R. | 10 minute read
Dog walk up Mam Tor
Dog walks in Derbyshire
When it comes to incredible walks in the UK, the Peak District National Park needs little introduction. With miles of scenic routes to explore, from riverside rambles to hilltop hikes, this beautiful region is an incredible destination for both muddy boots and muddy paws! If you're planning a trip here with your furry friend, then you're in luck. We've sniffed out 10 of the best dog-friendly walks in the Peak District, so you can make the most of your time in this picturesque landscape, while keeping your pup happy and tails wagging.
In search of dog-friendly accommodation? Check out our dog-friendly holidays in the Peak District
Hill walks & hikes in the Peak District
Trig Point on Mam Tor
Mam Tor circular walk
Mam Tor, nicknamed the Shivering Mountain due to its susceptibility to landslides, is a beloved spot for a Peak District dog walk. There's a circular walk from the National Trust car park to the summit and back, rewarding hikers with stunning views of the picturesque Hope Valley and nearby Kinder Scout (also featured on this list). It's a moderate hike that is ideal for adventurous dogs - and owners - who love a good challenge. Make sure to pack plenty of water and snacks to keep you and your four-legged friend fuelled along the way. Dogs should be kept on a lead along the route, as there may be animals grazing.
Tip: As this is such a popular route, it can get very busy on weekends during peak periods, so it's best to arrive early to ensure you get a parking space.
Postcode: S33 8WA - Mam Nick car park
Distance: 3 miles (4.8km)
Find more details for this walk on the National Trust website.
View along the top of Stanage Edge
Hathersage to Stanage Edge
Another great option for a dog-friendly Peak District hike is this 9-mile route from the village of Hathersage to Stanage Edge and back. This iconic gritstone escarpment - a filming location for Kiera Knightly in Pride & Prejudice - offers far-reaching views across the open countryside and is a favourite among both locals and tourists. The path is well-marked and follows a gentle incline, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the breathtaking scenery. Once you reach Stanage Edge, take some time to relax and enjoy the panoramic views of the Peak District National Park, including the Hope Valley, Derwent Valley and the peaks of Mam Tor and Kinder Scout. You can also explore the numerous rock formations and boulders that dot the landscape, making for a fun and adventurous outing for both you and your dog. Keep your eyes peeled for the rock-climbing adrenaline junkies!
Tip: Dogs are welcome on the walk to Stanage Edge, but it's important to keep them on a lead, especially near the edge of the cliff. Many dog owners choose to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and give their furry friends plenty of space to roam and explore.
Postcode: S32 1DU - Hathersage car park (opposite the Memorial Hall)
Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)
Stay nearby: Morton Loft, a dog-friendly apartment in Hathersage for up to five guests or Cunliffe Cottage, a dog-friendly bungalow for up to six guests
Find more details for this walk on the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire website.
Dog walk up Kinder Scout with a view of Kinder Scout Reservoir in the background
Kinder Scout circular walk
Kinder Scout is undoubtedly one of the most popular hikes in the Peak District National Park, known for its rugged terrain and magnificent views. It's the highest point in the Peak District, at 2,087 feet high! If you're looking for a dog-friendly walk up Kinder Scout, this National Trust route via Jacob's Ladder is truly iconic! This is also a great option if you're after a walk you can access via public transport, as it begins at Edale train station. You'll walk through the countryside village of Edale before joining the Pennine Way, following it alongside the River Noe and past ancient woodland before climbing the steep ascent up Jacob's Ladder, which leads you to Kinder Plateau. The path is well-defined and relatively easy to follow, making it a popular choice for hikers with dogs. The walk offers some fantastic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Edale Valley and the Dark Peak moors. Your four-legged friend will love the opportunity to explore the open moorland and enjoy the fresh air and exercise. Just make sure to keep your dog on a lead, especially near any livestock, and be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks for both you and your furry companion.
Postcode: S33 7ZN - Edale train station
Distance: 7.5 miles (12km)
Stay nearby: Vera's Cottage, a dog-friendly holiday cottage in Edale, sleeping up to four people
Find more details for this walk on the National Trust website.
Countryside views from the Heights of Abraham
Matlock Bath, Heights of Abraham & High Tor circular walk
Starting in the village of Matlock Bath, this circular walk takes you through woodlands, along the River Derwent, and up to the Heights of Abraham via a dog-friendly cable car! From here, you'll be able to enjoy panoramic views of the area. High Tor is a prominent limestone crag that overlooks Matlock and offers a challenging but rewarding climb to the top. The walk then descends back down to Matlock Bath, passing through rolling fields and wooded areas. Once back in Matlock Bath, you'll find plenty of dog-friendly cafés and pubs to refuel and recharge after your scenic walk.
Tip: Keep your dog on a lead at all times and take extra care near cliff edges and steep drops.
Postcode: DE4 3NT - Matlock Bath train station car park
Distance: 3.6 miles (5.8km)
Stay nearby: Holiday cottages in Matlock or Darwin Forest holiday lodges
Find more details for this walk on the 10 Adventures website.
Woodland/riverside walks in the Peak District
Small waterfall in Lathkill Dale
Monyash to Lathkill Dale
Lathkill Dale is a beautiful limestone valley in the Peak District, known for its idyllic scenery and picturesque walking routes. This hidden gem is a fantastic spot for dog owners looking to explore the great outdoors with their furry friends. One of the most popular dog-friendly walks in Lathkill Dale is the circular route starting from the village of Monyash. The 4-mile trail takes you along the crystal-clear waters of the River Lathkill, through lush green meadows and past ancient limestone cliffs. The walk is relatively easy, making it suitable for dogs of all ages and abilities.
Tip: Lathkill Dale is in the Derbyshire Dales National Nature reserve - keep your eyes peeled for water voles, kingfishers, dippers and even otters!
Postcode: DE45 1JH - Monyash village car park
Distance: 4.4 miles (7km)
Stay nearby: Longnor Wood Holiday Park, a dog-friendly holiday park around 15 minutes' drive from Monyash
Find more details for this walk on the Peak District Walks website.
Control Tower & Dam Wall at Fernilee Reservoir in the Goyt Valley
Fernilee Reservoir circular walk, Goyt Valley
One of the most picturesque and dog-friendly walks in the Peak District can be found in the inspiring Goyt Valley, near the town of Buxton, home to a variety of walking trails that are perfect for both you and your furry companion to explore. A popular dog walk in the area is the 4-mile circular route that takes you around Fernilee Reservoir. Not only will you be able to enjoy the tranquil waters of the reservoir, but you will also wander through enchanting woodland. The path is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for all levels of walkers, including families with young children. As you wander through the Goyt Valley, you and your dog will have the chance to take in the beauty of the natural landscape, with its lush greenery, babbling brooks and towering trees. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as birds and perhaps even the occasional deer.
Postcode: SK17 6SX - Goyt Valley main car park
Distance: 4 miles (6.4km)
Stay nearby: Buxton holiday cottages
Find more details for this walk on the Goyt Valley website.
Burbage Brook in Padley Gorge
Padley Gorge & Burbage Brook walk
Padley Gorge is a picturesque wooded ravine in the Hope Valley on the edge of the Peak District National Park, just a short drive from Sheffield. This popular walking spot is a haven for dog owners looking to explore the natural beauty of the Derbyshire countryside with their four-legged friends. One of the most popular walks in Padley Gorge is the route that follows the Burbage Brook, a clear stream that meanders through the valley. The walking path is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for dogs of all sizes and abilities. Along the way, you and your furry companion can enjoy the sights and sounds of the ancient woodland, with the tranquil sound of running water providing a soothing soundtrack to your walk. There are plenty of opportunities for your dog to stretch their legs and have a paddle in the stream, making this walk a favourite among pups who love a good splash around. The scenery is truly stunning, with towering trees, moss-covered rocks, and vibrant green ferns creating a magical atmosphere that will transport you away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Tip: This route is only half a mile from the National Trust's Longshaw Estate, which features on our dog-friendly guide to the Peak District as one of our top dog-friendly National Trust sites in the area.
Postcode: S11 7TZ - Longshaw Café
Distance: 2.3 miles (3.6km)
Find more details for this walk on the National Trust website.
Easy/flat walks in the Peak District
View over Monsal Dale from Monsal Head
Bakewell to Monsal Head, Monsal Trail
The Monsal Trail is a fantastic dog-friendly walk in the Peak District, not least because it is a traffic-free route! The former railway line stretches for 8.5 miles with multiple access points, taking you through picturesque countryside, past towering viaducts and alongside the sparkling River Wye. One of the most popular sections of the Monsal Trail for dog walkers is the stretch between Bakewell and Monsal Head. This 4-mile route takes you through the heart of the Peak District, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Your furry friend will love exploring the wide, well-maintained path, sniffing out new sights and scents around every bend. There are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way, including benches and picnic areas where you can take in the views and enjoy a packed lunch. And with easy access to nearby villages like Bakewell and Ashford-in-the-Water, you can easily extend your walk or pick up some treats for you and your pup. So if you're looking for a dog-friendly walk that combines stunning scenery with ease of access and plenty of amenities, the Monsal Trail is an ideal choice.
Postcode: DE45 1GE - Bakewell Station (Monsal Trail) car park
Distance: 4 miles (6.4km)
Find more details for this walk on the Peak District National Park website.
Ladybower Reservoir in the Upper Derwent Valley
Ladybower Reservoir
You'll find the large Y-shaped Ladybower Reservoir in the Upper Derwent Valley, right in the middle of the Peak District National Park. This impressive man-made reservoir is the largest in the Peak District and offers miles of walking trails, with one of the most popular being the circular walk around the reservoir itself. This walk offers stunning views of the water, the Derwent Dam and surrounding hills, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing day out with your canine companion. The path is flat and well-maintained, so it's accessible for dogs of all abilities. Just remember to keep your dog on a lead and clean up after them to ensure that this beautiful area remains a clean and enjoyable place for all visitors.
Tip: For those looking for a longer walk, there are plenty of trails that lead off from Ladybower Reservoir and into the surrounding countryside. The Derwent Valley Heritage Way follows the River Derwent and offers a more challenging walk with some steep inclines, perfect for energetic dogs (and humans) who enjoy a good workout.
Postcode: S33 0AQ - Fairholmes car park
Distance: 5.7 miles (9.2km)
Stay nearby: Carr View Farm, a dog-friendly holiday home for up to six guests, or Ladycroft Barn, a dog-friendly cottage for up to four guests - both in the Hope Valley, around five minutes' drive from Ladybower Reservoir
Medieval bridge in Bakewell over the River Wye
Bakewell to Chatsworth House circular walk
This circular walk takes you around some classic Peak District countryside, alongside rivers and through woodland, until you reach the iconic Chatsworth House. Starting in the historic market town of Bakewell, famous for its delicious Bakewell Pudding, the loop crosses a medieval bridge over the River Wye, through fields and meadows, and past the picturesque village of Edensor, before bringing you to Chatsworth. On the way back, you can take the slightly shorter, more direct route back to Bakewell (around six miles), or follow the more scenic route along the River Derwent, past the site of an Iron Age fort. The walk is relatively easy with some gentle inclines, making it suitable for dogs of all ages and abilities. There are also plenty of opportunities to stop for a picnic along the way, so be sure to pack some dog treats and water for your four-legged companion. As you arrive back in Bakewell, be sure to take some time to explore the town and its many dog-friendly cafés and pubs. It's the pawfect way to end a day of walking in the Peak District with your furry friend.
Postcode: DE45 1DS - Bakewell Tourist Information Centre
Distance: 8 miles (12.8km)
Find more details for this walk on the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire website.
Peak District dog walks
Whether you're a local looking for a new route to explore or a visitor wanting to make the most of your time in the Peak District, there is no shortage of inticing walks for you and your furry friend to enjoy. From picturesque villages to breathtaking moorlands, the Peak District offers something for every type of hiker and their four-legged companion. So, grab your walking boots, pack a picnic, and set out on an adventure to discover the beauty of the Peak District with your loyal canine companion by your side. Happy walking!
If you're planning a weekend trip or short break with your pooch, don't miss our dog-friendly guide to the Peak District, which has even more info on the best pubs, family-friendly attractions and National Trust sites where your dog will be just as welcome as you are.
Browse our full range of dog-friendly lodges, holiday parks and cottages in the Peak District now.
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