The Best Dog-Friendly Walks in the Lake District

Few places capture the bond between people, pets, and nature quite like the Lake District. The scent of pine, the shimmer of water, and the sound of paws on gravel – it’s heaven for both humans and hounds.

Whether you’re after gentle dog walks in Cumbria, a half-day adventure through forested valleys, or ambitious off-lead dog walks in the Lake District across open fells, there’s something for every pace and personality here.

Cafes welcome muddy paws, pubs keep biscuits behind the bar, and trails wind through some of the most beautiful scenery in Britain. Read on to discover some of the best walks in the Lake District that’ll leave both you and your four-legged friend grinning from ear to ear.

Table of Contents:

1. Easy Dog-Friendly Walks in the Lake District
    • Keswick & Derwentwater
    • Tarn Hows
    • Fell Foot Park, Windermere
2. Moderate Dog-Friendly Walks in the Lake District
    • Ambleside to Rydal
    • Grasmere & Easedale Tarn
    • Buttermere
    • Cat Bells
3. Challenging Dog-Friendly Walks in the Lake District
    • Helvellyn via Thirlmere
    • Scafell Pike from Wasdale
    • Ullswater Way
4. Responsible Dog Walking in the Lake District
5. Summary
6. FAQs

Easy Dog-Friendly Walks in the Lake District

These walking routes are ideal for relaxed mornings or steady afternoons with your pooch. They include smooth paths, lakeside views, and plenty of paddling spots. If you’re looking for an easy walk because you’re with your little ones too, check out our guide to things to do in the Lake District for families. 

• Keswick and Derwentwater
• Tarn Hows
• Fell Foot Park, Windermere

Keswick & Derwentwater

If you’re looking for walks in Keswick with dogs, the circuit around Derwentwater is unbeatable. The full loop is about 10 miles, but you can shorten it easily – Friar’s Crag to Ashness Gate is a local favourite for a shorter stretch.

Your dog can explore wooded shores, dash across open meadows, and dip into the lake at one of the many little beaches. Off-lead opportunities abound, and the changing scenery keeps tails wagging from start to finish.

Round off the day with tea and cake at the Lakeside Cafe, where dogs are greeted as warmly as their humans.

Tarn Hows

Tarn Hows near Coniston is the postcard-perfect walk you’ve probably seen on Lake District calendars. Its circular trail (about 1.5 miles) is flat, well-kept, and ideal for smaller paws or senior dogs.

Fringed by pine and larch, with glimpses of snowy peaks on clear days, this is one of the best dog walks in the Lake District for an easy, scenic wander. Picnic benches dot the route, and there’s even an ice-cream van in the summer months.

Fell Foot Park, Windermere

At the southern edge of Windermere, Fell Foot Park is a National Trust gem. Its open lawns, wide paths, and calm lake access make it perfect for gentle dog walks in the Lake District.

Dogs can roam freely on the grassy fields, paddle by the shore, or enjoy a steady amble along the riverside paths. Grab a coffee from the lakeside cafes nearby and watch paddleboarders drift by while your dog dozes contentedly at your feet.

It’s simplicity at its best – no strenuous climbs, just fresh air and open space.

Moderate Dog-Friendly Walks in the Lake District

These routes balance adventure with comfort. Expect longer distances or mild climbs, but nothing too demanding for fit, active dogs.

• Ambleside to Rydal
• Grasmere & Easedale Tarn
• Buttermere
• Cat Bells

Ambleside to Rydal

Starting in Rothay Park, this circular walk follows the River Rothay through woodland and meadows towards Rydal Water. It’s a lovely mix of open paths, shaded tracks, and gentle lakeside stretches, perfect for dog walking in the Lake District.

Stop for lunch at the dog-friendly Badger Bar in Rydal before looping back to Ambleside. You’ll pass grazing sheep, mossy stone walls, and reflections dancing on the water.

It’s one of those walks that feels effortless yet endlessly rewarding – the ultimate half-day escape.

Grasmere & Easedale Tarn

Few dog-friendly walks in the Lake District feel quite as satisfying as the route from Grasmere to Easedale Tarn. It’s around six miles return, climbing gradually alongside Sourmilk Gill waterfall before opening onto the tranquil tarn.

At the top, there’s space to rest, play fetch, or paddle together. On sunny days, the water sparkles like glass. On cloudy ones, it feels wild and elemental.

It’s easy to see why this is one of the most loved dog walks in Cumbria – moderate in effort, rich in reward.

Buttermere

Buttermere is proof that you don’t need altitude for drama. The 4.5-mile loop around this serene lake combines meadow paths, woodland shade, and glassy reflections framed by peaks.

It’s great for off-lead dog walks in the Lake District thanks to open fields and clear sightlines. Sheep may be around, but there are plenty of enclosed stretches for freedom to roam.

You could finish with a hearty meal at the Bridge Hotel, where dogs are treated like regulars.

Cat Bells

For something with a touch more excitement, Cat Bells above Derwentwater is a fantastic introduction to fell walking, for both people and pups.

Though short (about 3.5 miles), it packs in a surprising variety of terrain: grassy slopes, rocky scrambles, and sweeping views over Keswick and the Northern Fells. Dogs who enjoy climbing will love this one, though leads are wise on the steeper sections.

It’s one of the most photographed dog walks in the Lake District, and for good reason – standing at the summit feels like a small victory for you both.

Challenging Dog-Friendly Walks in the Lake District

These trails suit confident walkers and energetic dogs. Expect longer days, steeper climbs, and unforgettable views. Always bring water, snacks, and proper footwear, and check the forecast before setting off.

• Helvellyn via Thirlmere
• Scafell Pike from Wasdale
• Ullswater Way

Helvellyn via Thirlmere

At 950 metres, Helvellyn is one of the Lake District’s most iconic mountains, and yes, dogs can join the adventure.

Avoid the exposed Striding Edge if your dog isn’t experienced with scrambling; instead, take the safer Thirlmere route. It’s still a tough climb, but it rewards you with vast, open panoramas and plenty of grassy spots to rest.

This is one of the ultimate dog walks in the Lake District for fit, adventurous pairs who love a challenge. Reaching the summit feels like stepping onto the roof of England.

Scafell Pike from Wasdale

Climbing Scafell Pike – the highest mountain in England – isn’t just for thrill-seekers. Many dogs complete it happily, though it’s a serious hike requiring stamina and good conditions.

The Wasdale route is the most direct and popular. It’s rocky, exposed in parts, and usually busy, but the payoff is unbeatable. On clear days, you can see across the Irish Sea and into Scotland.

If your dog is used to long, demanding walks, this could be their crowning achievement. It’s the kind of day you’ll both remember for years to come.

Ullswater Way

At roughly 20 miles, the Ullswater Way loops around one of the Lake District’s most beautiful lakes. It’s a mix of woodland paths, open moor, and lakeside stretches, so it’s ideal for strong, adventurous dogs who love variety.

The best approach is to tackle it in sections. Try Glencoyne Bay to Aira Force for dramatic waterfalls and shaded trails, or Howtown to Pooley Bridge for sweeping open views.

This is one of the most rewarding dog walks in the Lake District, blending physical challenge with constant beauty.

When you’re done, you could check out our guide on things to do in the Lake District for dogs. You may just find the perfect activity for recovery days after completing this challenge.

Responsible Dog Walking in the Lake District

The freedom of the fells is one of the Lake District’s greatest joys. Few things feel as liberating as watching your dog race through open fields or paddle in a crystal-clear tarn. But with that freedom comes responsibility, both for your pet’s safety and the wellbeing of the landscape that makes this place so special.

Walking here is a shared experience. The fells are working farmland, the woods are home to wildlife, and the paths are enjoyed by countless walkers year-round. A little awareness goes a long way to keeping everyone – people, pets, and animals – happy and safe.

Considerations for Your Dog

Fitness and Terrain

Not every trail suits every dog. Choose routes that match their stamina and ability. Short, flat paths like Tarn Hows are ideal for young or older dogs, while hikes such as Helvellyn or Scafell Pike should only be attempted by fit, experienced dogs that are used to long and rocky ascents.

Livestock

Sheep and cattle graze freely across much of the Lake District, especially around Cat Bells, Buttermere, and Grasmere. Always keep your dog on a short lead when near livestock, even if they’re well-behaved. Remember, instinct can take over quickly in open spaces.

Busy Times

Popular routes like Derwentwater and Windermere’s lakeshore can get crowded during weekends and holidays. Keep dogs on a lead during busy periods or on narrow paths to avoid startling other walkers, children, or pets.

Forests and Woodland Walks

In larger forests such as Grizedale or Whinlatter, dogs are generally welcome off-lead, but it’s important to check local signage. Some areas may have restrictions during nesting seasons or where conservation projects are underway.

Water and Weather

Bring plenty of water, especially on warm days, and a towel for muddy paws after swims. The weather in the Lakes changes quickly, so pack an extra layer for yourself and keep an eye on your dog’s comfort.

Local Wildlife

The Lake District is rich in wildlife, from red squirrels to ground-nesting birds. Keeping dogs close helps protect these fragile ecosystems, especially in spring when many species are raising young.

Walking Etiquette & Essentials

Before setting off, a little preparation can make your day out smoother and more enjoyable:

• Plan Ahead: Check trail length, gradient, and facilities before you go.
• Carry Essentials: Lead, water, snacks, waste bags, a towel, and a small first-aid kit.
• Leave No Trace: Always bag and bin waste, even in remote areas.
• Be Courteous: Step aside for others, especially on narrow or rocky trails.
• Take Your Time: Pause at viewpoints, breathe in the mountain air, and enjoy the slower pace that makes the Lakes so restorative.

Summary

Choosing the right trail is about knowing your dog. Energetic explorers will thrive on Helvellyn or the Ullswater Way. Gentle souls will love Tarn Hows or Buttermere. Somewhere in between? Cat Bells or Grasmere are just right.

Wherever you go, every wag, splash, and muddy pawprint becomes part of your story together. To make your adventure complete, stay where the landscape greets you every morning. Leisure Resorts’ Ullswater Heights is a beautiful dog-friendly resort in the heart of the Lakes with holiday lodges, pods, and glamping tents. 

After all, what could be better than a hot shower, a soft sofa, and your tired, happy dog curled up beside you as the sun sets behind the fells?

If you’re dreaming of being in the Lakes with your dog, why not make the dream a reality and take a look at our lodges available to buy in the North Lakes? 

There is something for the whole family – even the four-legged ones. We have an agility course for energetic pups, dog wash stations to clean off after muddy walks, and they’re even welcome in our on-site restaurants. 

FAQs

What is the most dog-friendly town in the Lake District?

Keswick is often named the most dog-friendly town in the Lake District, and it’s easy to see why. Almost every cafe, pub, and shop welcomes dogs, and the town sits right beside Derwentwater, one of the region’s most beautiful lakes. There’s also an annual dog festival! 

You can enjoy relaxed lakeside strolls like Friar’s Crag or tackle nearby fells such as Cat Bells for something more adventurous. For the perfect base, discover why a dog-friendly holiday with Leisure Resorts offers comfort, space, and the great outdoors right on your doorstep.

Are dogs allowed everywhere in the Lake District?

The Lake District is one of the most welcoming regions in the UK for dogs, but a little awareness goes a long way. Most public footpaths, fell routes, and lakeside trails are open to dogs, though some areas have seasonal restrictions to protect wildlife or livestock. You’ll often see signs around farmland, especially in spring during lambing season.

Dogs are welcome in many outdoor attractions, from country gardens to forest trails like Grizedale and Whinlatter, where off-lead areas are clearly marked. Even local transport – including certain buses and trains – allows well-behaved pets, making it easy to explore without using the car.

What to do in the Lake District with a dog?

The Lake District is full of adventures for you and your dog, from lakeside wanders to relaxed days out. You can hop aboard Windermere Lake Cruises or the Ullswater Steamers, where dogs are welcome to join you as the scenery drifts by. National Trust favourites like Tarn Hows and Fell Foot Park have easy trails, shaded picnic spots, and safe water access for a quick swim.

For more inspiration, explore things to do in the Lake District with dogs – a helpful guide to attractions, dining spots, and activities that make travelling with your four-legged friend effortless.