If you’re planning a UK cottage holiday that you can enjoy with your dog, the Lake District is hard to beat. In fact, the Kennel Club awarded the area top prize in the Outdoors category of the ‘Be Dog Friendly Awards’ for two consecutive years.
The Lake District is famous for its stunning landscapes, from pristine lakes to towering mountains, offering some of the best walks in the UK. Whether you and your furry friend are looking for gentle strolls or more challenging trails, the area has something for everyone. Here are five of our favourite dog walks in the Lake District.
Our Hand Picked Dog Walks in the Lake District
1. Grizedale Forest
Distance: Between 1 - 10 miles
Duration: Up to 4 hours
Postcode: LA22 0QJ
Situated between Coniston and Windermere, Grizedale Forest offers a variety of woodland trails, lakes, and sculptures to explore. With 10 signposted walking routes ranging from 1 to 10 miles, it’s perfect for both novice and experienced walkers. Dogs are welcome throughout, and there’s a café and picnic areas for post-walk relaxation.
Find more information here.
2. Lowther Castle & Gardens
Distance: 1–7 miles
Duration: Up to 3 hours
Postcode: CA10 2HH
Lowther Castle’s grounds combine dramatic ruins, formal gardens, and unspoilt woodland. There are multiple trails suitable for dogs, although they must be kept on leads. The estate is open all year, with additional attractions including adventure playgrounds and picnic areas, making it ideal for family visits.
You can find entry fees and additional information here.
Circular Dog Walks in the Lake District
3. Aira Force and Ullswater
Distance: 4.5 miles
Duration: 1.5–3 hours
Postcode: CA11 0JY
Aira Force Waterfall, a spectacular 65-foot cascade, is surrounded by scenic walking trails suitable for dogs on leads. Routes vary from gentle strolls along Ullswater to more adventurous hikes up Gowbarrow summit. The National Trust provides water bowls and tea rooms in the car park, making it easy to refresh after your walk.
Find the routes here.
4. Rydal Water
Distance: 5.5 miles
Duration: 2.5 hours
Postcode: LA22 9LW
This circular walk around Rydal Water offers lakeside views, woodland paths, and even small caves to explore. The route can be extended to include Ambleside, Loughrigg Tarn, and Grasmere, providing stunning panoramic views. Dog-friendly cafés and pubs in Grasmere make for the perfect stop after your walk.
Find the route here
5. Watendlath Valley
Distance: 2.5 miles
Duration: 1.5 hours
Postcode: CA12 5UU
Watendlath is a charming hamlet accessible via a scenic two-and-a-half-mile walk through a hidden valley. The route follows packhorse trails along woodlands, rocky outcrops, and traditional farmland. Dogs can explore the valley and river paths, but sturdy footwear is recommended. Return to Keswick and relax at one of the dog-friendly cafés nearby.
Find more information here.
Tips for Walking Dogs in the Lake District
- Much of the land is used for grazing and farming, so dogs must be kept under control.
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Ground-nesting birds, such as curlew, lapwing, and grouse, may be present in certain areas.
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On Open Access land, dogs must be on short leads from 1 March to 31 July, and all year near sheep and cows.
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Always follow local signage and keep close supervision on public rights of way.
Stay in Dog-Friendly Lake District Cottages
Our collection of dog-friendly cottages provides the perfect base for discovering the Lake District’s hidden gems. After a day exploring the trails, enjoy a cosy home-from-home to rest tired feet (or paws). You can also check out other walks, including our hand-picked best dog walks in Devon.