Exploring new walks with your dog is one of life’s simple pleasures. The UK is home to countless scenic trails that offer breathtaking views, fresh air, and the opportunity to bond with your furry friend. We’ve teamed up with our besties at Ralph & Co—who know a thing or two about making sure your dog is as comfortable on the go as they are at home—to uncover the 10 most picturesque hidden gem walks in the UK that are perfect for you and your dog. So grab your walking boots, leash up your pup, and let’s dive into these stunning trails.
1. Holkham Beach, Norfolk
Why It’s a Gem: Holkham Beach offers vast expanses of golden sands backed by pine forests and dunes. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for letting your dog run free while you take in the coastal beauty.
Where to Start: Begin your walk at Holkham Gap, where there’s ample parking. From here, head towards the beach and explore the vast sands and dunes. A circular route through the pinewoods and back to the beach provides a delightful variety.
Top Tips: Check tide times to ensure you have plenty of beach to explore. Bring water and snacks for your dog, as amenities are limited.
Dog Friendly Details: Holkham Beach is dog friendly all year round, making it a perfect spot for a seaside adventure with your pup.
2. Carding Mill Valley, Shropshire
Why It’s a Gem: Nestled in the Shropshire Hills, Carding Mill Valley features rolling hills, clear streams, and heather-covered moorlands. It’s an idyllic setting for a serene walk with your dog.
Where to Start: Park at the National Trust car park in Carding Mill Valley. Follow the path along the stream towards the waterfall, then continue up onto the Long Mynd for panoramic views.
Top Tips: Wear sturdy walking boots, as some paths can be steep and rocky. Bring a map or use a GPS device, as the area has many intersecting trails.
Dog Friendly Details: Carding Mill Valley is dog friendly, including inside the tea room, where you and your dog can enjoy a rest and refreshments.
3. Castle Combe, Wiltshire
Why It’s a Gem: Often referred to as the prettiest village in England, Castle Combe is a quintessentially English location with charming cottages, meadows, and woodland trails.
Where to Start: Start in the village centre, where there is parking available. Follow the public footpath signs through the village and into the surrounding countryside, looping back through the village.
Top Tips: Visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds. Take time to explore the village’s historic architecture and stop for refreshments at a local cafe.
Dog Friendly Details: Many of the local cafes and pubs in Castle Combe are dog friendly, making it easy to find a spot to relax with your pup.
4. Rannerdale Knotts, Lake District
Why It’s a Gem: Known as the “Secret Valley,” Rannerdale Knotts offers breathtaking views of Crummock Water and Buttermere. It’s especially beautiful in spring when the bluebells are in bloom.
Where to Start: Begin at the National Trust car park at Rannerdale. Follow the path leading up to the ridge for stunning lake views. Continue along the ridge and descend back to the car park.
Top Tips: Visit in late spring to see the bluebells in full bloom. Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Dog Friendly Details: Dogs are welcome year-round, but please keep them on a lead during the bluebell season to protect the flowers.
5. Loch an Eilein, Cairngorms National Park
Why It’s a Gem: This hidden gem features a serene loch with a small island castle ruin, surrounded by ancient Caledonian forest. It’s a tranquil escape in the heart of the Highlands.
Where to Start: Park at the Loch an Eilein visitor centre. Follow the well-marked circular path around the loch, taking in the beautiful views and the historic castle ruins.
Top Tips: Wear insect repellent in the summer months to ward off midges. Bring a picnic to enjoy by the loch.
Dog Friendly Details: Dogs are welcome throughout the year. Just make sure to keep them under control around wildlife.
6. South West Coast Path, Devon
Why It’s a Gem: While not entirely hidden, the lesser-known sections of the South West Coast Path in Devon offer stunning cliff-top views, secluded coves, and charming villages.
Where to Start: Start at the village of Hope Cove. Follow the coast path towards Bolt Head, enjoying the dramatic sea views and hidden beaches along the way.
Top Tips: Wear sturdy shoes, as the path can be steep and uneven. Check the weather forecast before you go, as coastal paths can be exposed to strong winds.
Dog Friendly Details: Many sections of the South West Coast Path are dog friendly. However, be mindful of cliff edges and ensure your dog is always on a lead.
7. Pistyll Rhaeadr, Wales
Why It’s a Gem: One of Wales’ tallest waterfalls, Pistyll Rhaeadr is a spectacular sight set within the Berwyn Mountains. The surrounding area offers serene walks through lush landscapes.
Where to Start: Park at the waterfall’s visitor centre. Follow the path leading up to the top of the falls for incredible views, then explore the surrounding trails in the Berwyn Mountains.
Top Tips: Visit after heavy rainfall for the most impressive waterfall display. Wear waterproof boots, as the area can be muddy.
Dog Friendly Details: Dogs are welcome on the trails, but please keep them on a lead near the waterfall for safety.
8. Glenashdale Falls, Isle of Arran
Why It’s a Gem: The Isle of Arran is often described as Scotland in miniature. Glenashdale Falls is a beautiful cascading waterfall set within a verdant forest, offering a magical walking experience.
Where to Start: Start at the village of Whiting Bay. Follow the well-marked path through the forest to the falls, then loop back via the Giants’ Graves for a touch of history.
Top Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a raincoat, as weather conditions can change rapidly. Don’t forget your camera for the stunning falls and views.
Dog Friendly Details: The trail to Glenashdale Falls is dog friendly, but ensure your dog is on a lead near the waterfalls and steep sections.
9. Blakeney Point, Norfolk
Why It’s a Gem: Blakeney Point is a coastal nature reserve known for its sand dunes, salt marshes, and diverse birdlife. It’s a serene spot for a coastal walk with your dog.
Where to Start: Park at Cley Beach car park. Follow the coastal path towards Blakeney Point, exploring the dunes and marshes along the way.
Top Tips: Bring binoculars for birdwatching. Visit during low tide for easier walking conditions.
Dog Friendly Details: Dogs are welcome on Blakeney Point, but please keep them on a lead to protect the wildlife.
10. Padley Gorge, Peak District
Why It’s a Gem: Padley Gorge is a hidden gem featuring babbling brooks, ancient woodlands, and moss-covered boulders. It’s a fairy-tale setting that’s perfect for adventurous dogs and their owners.
Where to Start: Begin at the Longshaw Estate car park. Follow the path down into Padley Gorge, exploring the scenic woodland trails and streams.
Top Tips: Wear waterproof footwear, as paths can be slippery and wet. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the stream.
Dog Friendly Details: Padley Gorge is dog friendly, but please keep your dog under control and be mindful of the terrain, which can be challenging in places.
Wrapping Up Your Adventure
Exploring these hidden gem walks with your dog not only provides exercise and adventure but also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. And after a day of adventure, there’s nothing better than coming home to a cosy, supportive bed from Ralph & Co, where your dog can rest and rejuvenate.
So, pack your essentials, choose a trail, and embark on an unforgettable journey through some of the UK’s most picturesque landscapes.
