The Lake District is well known among keen walkers for having breath-taking views, amazing history and utter freedom. It also has loads of potential for dog walkers, and many walkers have their ever faithful friend beside them on a long trek.
However, some walks can be ruined by high volumes of sheep, or bad routes for dogs to walk. Here are some of the best routes that Flo our hotel friendly Cavapoo has recommended to take when you go walking with your dog in the Lake District.
(These walks are rated from 1-3 on their difficulty. 1 being gentle, 2 being moderate, and 3 being challenging.)
Ambleside – 1
A brilliant dog friendly walk in Ambleside is the Common Wood Walk. This walk is very easy, as you simply follow a signposted path. This walk is great for dogs as there are plenty of areas for them to run, while there are no places that they can immediately run off to.
This walk is also accessible from multiple places, and you can detour to Windermere for a cup of tea.
Scout Scar – 2
A short, but very steep walk is Scout Scar, just outside of Kendal. This walk has potential to be extended much further, but once you’ve reached the bench at the top, you have incredible views over the fells. This walk is perfect to let your dog roam, but be careful as lots of other dogs may be out!
Derwentwater Circular Walk – 2
Although this walk is lengthy, don’t be put off! This walk will take you all the way around Derwentwater, and has excellent places to stop. This scenic walk lasts roughly ten miles, but has many landmarks, activities and cafes to stop by and rest.
Troutbeck Tongue – 2
Troutbeck Tongue only takes around an hour to complete, and is perfect for an afternoon stroll with your dog. Quite gentle, and full of scenic views from pathways. This walk is also just on our doorstep here at Broadoaks, so would be brilliant for a good morning walk.
Loughrigg Fell – 2
This particular walk doesn’t necessarily have a given path, as there are many track to choose from, but this fell is good for being able to walk up, and loop down the other side. It is advised to be cautious in bad weather due to the height you’re climbing, but this fell is still safe for dogs.
Haystacks – 3
Haystacks was one of Wainwright’s favourite walks, and quite rightly so! It doesn’t have any difficult terrain, yet is quite challenging to walk up. It has a lot of steep uphill segments, but is brilliant for dogs. The views are claimed quite rightly as some of the best around, but be wary, as you must be properly prepared to take on such a task.
Lower Blencathra – 3
Also known as “the easy way”, this walk involves scaling Blencathra via a hill called Blease. This avoids you having to climb across harsh terrain and sharp edge ridges and the surroundings assure that you won’t lose sight of your dog if you decide to let them run.
Whinlatter – 3
Route One is a brilliant walk for you and your dog. This route has a very gentle start, and gradually builds up to a steep grassy walk to the top of Whinlatter. You can also see many other fells from this list on that walk, so make sure to take a camera and get some good photos!
Whinfell Beacon – 3
Although this walk has many options, it is roughly twelve miles long, making it a rather challenging one. This walk can be quite treacherous and weather dependent, and is mostly uphill. It has fantastic views of the valley, and at the peak you’re rewarded with being able to have a sensational view over the surrounding “Sleeping Elephants”. This can be a bit challenging for your dog if you take the longer routes as there are cattle grids, so be prepared to have to carry them over!
Scafell Pike – 3
This is a very challenging walk, and can be cut short at any point, but is not to be attempted unless you’re well equipped and have adequate fell safety knowhow. These walks have segments that are close to sheep, but are thrilling if you enjoy long, steep walks. This walk is good for seasoned walkers and good for getting your dog to burn all that energy off.
So, where would you like to go? There are so many walks to choose from, and it’s great to know that your four legged friend can join in on the fun too. Happy trails!
Don’t forget that Broadoaks Country House Hotel is doggie friendly. We offer Doggie Dinner Bed and Breakfast (DDBB) from our Four Paws Menu and have lots of facilities to make your dog friendly stay comfortable. Just a few check out our dedicated dog page to read about what we offer including our new Four Paws Suites and our dog Freedom Paddock.