When you’re looking for a holiday that you can take your dog on, too, the northern Lake District is an excellent option. There are loads of dog friendly pubs and restaurants in the Lake District, as well as dog friendly hotels. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the finest walks available in the UK. Here we explore the dog friendly walks that you can enjoy in the Northern Lakes.
Beautiful Derwentwater.
Derwentwater walks
Derwentwater is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is truly stunning from every angle. Walking on the lakeside is easy going and you may even be able to recognise a couple of backdrops from the recent Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens film.
The full nine-mile route from Moot Hall offers the perfect dog friendly walk for dogs that enjoy having a splash too!
From Keswick To Threlkeld
Following significant floods in 2015, the old railway path from Keswick to Threlkeld has been renovated and reopened. The new route is four miles long and is a brilliant way to explore some of the Lake District and consider the rich history of the area.
The refurbished railway path you will be walking on would once have been the beating heart of the mining industry in the Lake District. In Threlkeld you’ll also find a range of dog friendly places where you can get refreshments for you and your pet before completing the return journey.
View of Ullswater.
Ullswater
Ullswater is the second largest lake in the Lake District and it is prefect for those who want a slightly more challenging walk with their dog. There are some steep inclines surrounding the lake that let you get up high to enjoy the fantastic views.
Ranging from eight miles to 22 miles or more, there are loads of dog friendly routes that you can take depending on your fitness and the fitness of your dog.
If you want more than just a walk with your pup, then Ullswater is a great location for an all-round day out, too. There are numerous ferries that cross the lake each day and they welcome your furry friends, so you can enjoy a true adventure at Ullswater with your hound.
Go high for a great route on iconic Helvellyn.
Helvellyn
Helvellyn is the third highest peak in the Lake District and in England, but it offers a great walk with a fit and strong dog. If you and your dog are used to walking in the hills, then this is a great one for you to tackle together.
Unlike Scafell Pike and Sca Fell (the two higher peaks of the Lake District), Helvellyn is more dog friendly and more accessible to dog walkers. You should still expect a long day of four to eight hours’ walking, so it should not be undertaken lightly.
As it’s a long day out you should take some treats for yourself and for the dog and you should go prepared for all mountain conditions. When done properly, however, a trip up Helvellyn is the perfect escape from your dog friendly hotel.
Respect the environment
Wherever you go walking with your dog in the Lake District it is important to remember the dog walker’s code. The Lake District is heavily farmed and your dog will be likely to meet sheep and other animals in surprising places. If your dog is likely to give chase, then you should keep them on a lead whenever there is livestock around. Remember to clean up after your dog and help to keep the Northern Lake District beautiful for the next time you visit.
