The Best Off-Lead Dog Walks In & Around the UK

We may not always be blessed with ideal weather, but we’re pretty lucky to have access to a whole host of scenic dog walking spots in the UK. Is there anything sweeter than getting out in nature with your bestie? We think not. It’s even better when you can let them off the lead to blow off steam sans lead, though it can sometimes be a struggle to find places where it’s safe (and legal) to do so. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of some of the best off-lead walk locations in the UK, where dogs can run, sniff and explore to their heart’s content. 

Whether you’re after a long woodland trek to tire your energetic dog out, a wild meadow to play ‘fetch’ in, or a leisurely stroll that involves a stop at a pet-friendly pub, you’re bound to find something in our selection. Worried about letting your reactive pup off the lead? Don’t stress – we’ve even included a couple of spots that you can book for private use. Winner.

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How to find off-lead dog walks near you

A quick Google should give you plenty of leads (ahem), and it’s also worth asking for advice in local dog walking Facebook groups. People often post warnings about hazards, safety issues and negative interactions with other dogs/pet parents on there, which can be super handy, especially if you have a particularly reactive pup. The National Trust, Forestry England and Woodland Trust have lots of useful info on dog-friendly walks at their sites, and you can also search for dog-friendly routes on AllTrails or OS Maps. 

5 off-lead dog walks near Norwich

Whitlingham Great Broad

Located right on the border of the city of Norwich, Whitlingham Country Park offers a wheelchair accessible two-mile circular loop around the beautiful Great Broad. Dogs are welcome to swim in the lake, though be aware that blue-green algae aka cyanobacteria has been spotted in the water in recent years. This is incredibly toxic to both dogs and humans, so keep an eye out for warning signs or check the park’s Facebook page for more information. 

Catton Park

Treat your dog to a frolic in this 70-acre country park, situated two miles north of Norwich in the quaint little village of Old Catton. Take a stroll around the wooden sculpture trail, admire the many types of trees in the woodland, or watch your dog do zoomies in the wild flower meadow. Heads up – dogs aren’t allowed in the picnic area, though. Bummer.

Mousehold Heath

A short walk from the city lies Mousehold Heath and its 184 acres of woodland and heathland. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, you’ll get the chance to snap some Insta pics while your pup sniffs for scents – the dream. With a plethora of trails and varying terrain, this heath is perfect for repeat visits. 

Earlham Park

Situated next to the University of East Anglia campus you’ll find Earlham Park, a huge open space that’s super popular with dog walkers. With fields, woodland and the River Yare, there’s plenty to keep your dog stimulated. Once you’re done, take a breather at the dog-friendly Earlham Park Café. 

Boudicca Way

History buffs will love that this 36-mile stretch from Norwich to Diss was named after the warrior queen of the Iceni tribe, who resided in East Anglia back in Roman times. Traversing through the rolling countryside and picturesque villages of South Norfolk and the Waveney Valley, there’s lots to stimulate your dog. Fancy a pint? There are a number of dog-friendly pubs on the trail, including The Cock Inn, which lies at the Diss end of the walk, and The Crown Inn in Pulham Market.

5 off-lead dog walks in Northumberland

Sycamore Gap

The rugged Northumberland National Park is home to the Sycamore Gap, a dramatic dip in the landscape that once housed a much-loved oak tree that was illegally felled in 2023. It sits next to the historic Hadrian’s Wall, making it an epic choice for a dog walk. The park’s suggested Sycamore Gap walk is two miles long and dogs can run free so long as they’re put on the lead around livestock. 

Allen Banks and Staward Gorge

Enjoy woodland walks aplenty at this stunning 617-acre National Trust site, located just south of Bardon Mill. Whether you want a quick sniffy walk or prefer a longer adventure, there’s a route to suit you and your pup (who’ll appreciate the abundance of sticks). If your dog’s prey drive is off the chart, be aware that there’s loads of roe deer, red squirrels, and badgers. National Trust rules require dogs to be kept on the leash when walking through farmers’ fields. 

Hareshaw Linn Waterfall

Another Northumberland National Park gem, the Hareshaw Linn walk is a three-mile trail that takes you to a spectacular waterfall. Keep your eye out for rare ferns and lichen on the way, as well as red squirrels, great spotted woodpeckers, badgers and bats. Nature? We love her. 

Lambley Viaduct

Got a head for heights? Check out the Lambley Viaduct, a Victorian relic that towers 33 metres over the River South Tyne, near Lambley. Once a railway bridge, it’s now pedestrianised and ready for walkies. The viaduct forms part of the South Tyne Trail, which is a whopping 23 miles long, so have a peek at this map to find a route that suits you. Bear in mind that parts of the trail involve crossing fields with livestock, and country roads with blind bends, so you’ll need to pop a lead on for those.

Kielder Forest

Not content with being England’s largest forest, Kielder Forest is also home to northern Europe’s biggest man-made lake, which you (and your dog) can take a scenic ferry around. There are a number of different routes to take with varying lengths and intensities – there’s even a 1.9-mile interactive dog-focused trail. Adorable.

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Calverley Wood

In the village of Calverley lies this charming woodland, full of wildlife scents that your dog’s nose will go crazy for. There are a few routes to choose from, including a two-mile circular walk that’s perfect for pooches. Refuel at the dog-friendly Calverley Arms, where you’ll find water bowls and treats. 

Horbury Lagoon

The beautiful (and huge) lagoon in Horbury is perfect for a summer walk – amble around the surrounding paths and watch your dog splash about in the water, before letting them shake off and run riot on the grass. Dreamy.

Frickley Country Park

This former colliery in South Elmsall is home to over seven miles of walking routes through wetlands, woodlands, and open meadows – ideal for your dog to blow off some steam. Keep an eye out for the sculptures dotted about that pay homage to the park’s industrial history. Aside from some steeper slopes, this is a great wheelchair-friendly option.

Harewood House

Sandwiched between Leeds and Harrogate, the 1000-acre Harewood estate houses a grand country mansion and immaculate gardens. Entry to the estate requires a day pass, and dogs must be kept on a lead at all times but never fear – there’s a free public footpath around the grounds. You can let your dog off, but make sure they’re under control around wildlife. The scenic five-mile circular walk starts at the Muddy Boots cafe.

Judy Woods

Judy Woods is the collective name given for a number of woodlands in Bradford. This area is popular with dog walkers as it’s safe for off-lead walkies and has loads of streams for dogs to cool off in. Did someone say ‘summer’?

5 off-lead dog walks in Gloucestershire

Mallards Pike in the Forest of Dean

Looking for a short but scenic stroll? The Mallards Pike Lakeside Path is an easy half-mile walk around the lower lake, with a flat surface that’s perfect for wheelchairs. Or, check out the two-mile interactive trail for dogs. There’s even a special area for pups to swim in, as well as a dog-friendly cafe. 

Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail

Do you need more stimulation than your dog? While your dog sniffs the ground, you can look up and admire the artwork that’s nestled among the trees on the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail in the Beechenhurst woodland. Then, put your feet up at the Beechenhurst Café, which has a dedicated dog-friendly area. 

Painswick Beacon

Take a short stroll up to the Painswick Beacon (the site of an Iron Age hill fort) and you’ll be blessed with panoramic views of the Cotswolds. If your dog has energy to burn, there are a few longer routes you can take. Got a ball-obsessed pup? Be aware that you’ll be walking through a golf course…

Rodborough Common

Rodborough Common, near Stroud, is a wonderful place to let your dog run free, with a range of walks that reward you with stunning views of the rolling hills and the River Severn. What a treat.

Severn Ham in Tewkesbury

The Severn Ham is a lovely water meadow that’s surrounded by the River Severn and River Avon. Well-marked paths and a huge open space make it a desirable option for dog walkers seeking a leisurely stroll and a ball throw. Note that dogs must be kept on leads between March and July.

5 off-lead dog walks near Brecon

Priory Groves

This ancient woodland lies next to the River Wye in Monmouth and offers plenty of sniff-tastic opportunities on its dog-friendly trails. Make sure you check out the waterfalls, too.

Llangorse Lake

Take your dog around the latest natural lake in Wales, situated in the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park. Take a four-mile walk around the lake, or a shorter two-mile lake trail. Dogs must be on a lead when close to the water, so that’s a big-fat-no to swimming. Sorry, pals. 

Blaen y Glyn Waterfall

Choose from a number of non-strenuous, dog-friendly trails that take you through lush greenery, leading to a peaceful waterfall in the Talybont Forest, located within the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal

A variety of dog-friendly walks await you on this 36-mile stretch of canal, with some sections featuring open parkland and woodland that’s perfect for zoomies. Make a pitstop at the dog-friendly The Towpath Inn in Abergavenny, or search for other pet-friendly pubs in the area. 

Pen-y-Crug

5 off-lead dog walks in Warwickshire

Swallowfield Dog Walking Fields

Book a slot for a private dog walk through the 40-acre meadow on this privately-owned land – perfect for unsociable dogs (or parents…). Logs, ditches, agility jumps and wildlife a-plenty offer maximum stimulation. There’s even a secure recall-training paddock.

Stratford Dog Walking Field

Just outside Stratford-upon-Avon lies this secure, five-acre dog walking field that’s flanked by a six-foot perimeter fence – ideal for Houdini types. Book a 30 or 60-minute private slot and you can let your pet loose without having to worry about other dogs or humans. 

Hatton Locks

Known as the ‘stairway to heaven’, you can let your dog off on this charming two-mile stroll that takes you past a flight of 21 locks on the Grand Union Canal. Make a day of it by paying a visit to the Hatton Arms pub, Hatton Locks Café or Hatton Shopping Village – all of which are proudly dog-friendly.

Hay Wood

This ancient woodland near Baddesley Clinton provides plenty of enrichment with multiple trails, scents and open spaces. Stimulation? Sorted. 

Crackley Wood

Crackley Wood near Kenilworth is a popular spot for dog walkers, with a network of shaded paths and open glades to run around and explore. Be aware that bluebells grow here in spring, which are toxic to dogs, so keep an extra beady eye on them.

Safety tips for off-lead dog walks

Letting your dog roam free is one of life’s great joys – for both of you. But freedom comes with a little responsibility. Before you unclip, it’s worth checking you’re both set up for success:

• Make sure your dog has a reliable recall.

• It might be wise to do a new walk on the lead first, as a practice run.

• Don’t let your dog off-lead until you’re safely away from busy roads and other hazards.

• Consider investing in a GPS tracker that attaches to their collar.

• Avoid wearing headphones, so you can be fully aware of your surroundings.

• Keep an eye on your dog at all times.

• Avoid going off-lead when walking dogs in the dark.

Off-lead dog walk etiquette 

We all want walkies to be a good time, not a battleground of tangled leads and awkward apologies. Off-lead etiquette is all about being considerate – to people, to wildlife and to other dogs who might be having a harder day than yours. A bit of awareness goes a long way:

• Remember that not everyone loves dogs – don’t let your dog run up to strangers (or other dogs) unless invited to.

• Be mindful of on-lead dogs – you might know your dog is friendly, but other dogs might be on a lead for a reason. 

• Only walk your dog off-lead in designated areas.

• Put your dog on the lead around livestock.

• Don’t let your dog chase wildlife.

Bottom line: off-lead dog walks around the UK

As you can see, the choice is yours when it comes to walking your dog off-lead around the UK, and you’re bound to find a spot that suits your dog’s energy levels and temperament. All information in this article is correct at time of writing, but be sure to double-check the rules before you head off, just in case things have changed. We don’t want any disappointed dogs now, do we?

Frequently asked questions: off-lead dog walks in the UK

Are off-lead walks good for dogs?

There’s nothing wrong with keeping your dog on a lead, but being off-leash allows your pet to behave more naturally. Research shows that allowing a dog to sniff and explore boosts sensory input, which improves cognitive development. Plus, a boost of cardio from running and playing helps keep them physically fit.

How much should I charge for a 30-minute dog walk in the UK?

According to Pet Business Insurance, the average price a UK dog walker charges for a 15-30 minute walk is £10, although this should be adjusted according to the cost of living in your area. 

Why does my dog walk really close to me?

Dog trainers at Sit Drop Stay report that dogs who willingly walk near to you are showing trust and respect. This close proximity allows them to look to you as their leader for decision-making and reassurance.

Is the Seven Sisters walk dog friendly?

Yes! The Seven Sisters South Downs National Park welcomes responsible dog walkers, so long as you keep your dog under close control and obey any signage requiring you to put your dog on a lead.

Resources

Foltin, Sandra, and Udo Ganslosser. “ Let’ M Loose – the Importance of Off-Leash Walks For Pet Dogs.” Animal and Veterinary Sciences, vol. 9, no. 6, Jan. 2021, p. 181.