The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in County Durham

County Durham offers a vast network of trails suitable for you and your dog. Our guide features over 300 dog-friendly hiking routes, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks, ensuring there's something for every ability.

The terrain in County Durham is incredibly diverse. You'll find everything from tranquil riverside paths along the River Wear and River Tees, ancient woodlands in areas like Hamsterley Forest, to rugged moorland and dramatic clifftop scenery along the Durham Heritage Coast. Many trails also traverse the stunning North Pennines AONB, offering varied landscapes.

Yes, many of the dog-friendly routes in County Durham are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Three Becks Walk loop in Hamsterley Forest and the Around Derwent Reservoir from Pow Hill Country Park are popular circular options.

Absolutely! County Durham is home to spectacular waterfalls. The Cow Green Reservoir & Cauldron Snout loop offers a challenging hike that includes views of Cauldron Snout. High Force and Low Force in Upper Teesdale are also iconic natural features often incorporated into longer routes.

Yes, County Durham has numerous easy and family-friendly options where dogs are welcome. Hamsterley Forest offers well-marked trails, some of which are suitable for pushchairs and dogs. Riverside walks around Durham City also provide gentle paths with scenic views.

Spring and autumn are generally ideal for dog-friendly hikes in County Durham, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, from spring blossoms to vibrant autumn foliage. Summer can be great too, but remember to bring plenty of water for your dog and be mindful of warmer temperatures. Winter walks can be stunning, especially in areas like the North Pennines, but require appropriate gear for both you and your dog.

While many trails are dog-friendly, it's always important to keep your dog under control, especially around livestock or in nature reserves. Some areas may require dogs to be on a lead. Always follow the Countryside Code, pick up after your dog, and be respectful of other trail users and wildlife. For specific nature reserve information, you can check the Durham County Council website.

Many dog-friendly hikes in County Durham offer historical landmarks and stunning viewpoints. You might pass by historic sites like Durham Castle or Auckland Castle, or enjoy panoramic views from areas within the North Pennines, such as those found on the Five Pikes and the Elephant Trees loop.

Yes, the Durham Heritage Coast offers a beautiful 11-mile stretch of clifftop scenery and coastal paths, part of the King Charles III England Coast Path. These routes provide stunning sea views and opportunities to explore coastal villages, making for invigorating dog walks.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in County Durham, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from peaceful riverside strolls to challenging moorland hikes, and the abundance of well-maintained paths that make exploring with their canine companions enjoyable. The variety of scenery, including forests, reservoirs, and coastal views, is frequently highlighted.

For those seeking a challenge, County Durham has several difficult dog-friendly routes. The Cow Green Reservoir & Cauldron Snout loop is a notable example, offering significant elevation gain and rugged terrain in the North Pennines.

Yes, several reservoirs in County Durham provide excellent dog-friendly walking opportunities. The Around Derwent Reservoir from Pow Hill Country Park and the Grassholme Reservoir loop are popular choices, offering scenic paths around the water.