The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Ribble Valley

The Ribble Valley boasts over 100 dog-friendly hiking trails, offering a wide variety of landscapes from riverside paths to moorland treks. You'll find options ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes, ensuring there's something for every dog and owner.

Yes, the Ribble Valley has numerous easy, dog-friendly routes. A great option is the Carved Wooden Chair – Edisford Bridge loop from Great Mitton, which is just under 8 km and features minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for a relaxed outing. Another gentle riverside walk is the Edisford Bridge – Carved Wooden Chair loop from Clitheroe, covering about 10.4 km.

For those seeking a more strenuous adventure with their canine companion, the Ribble Valley offers several difficult trails. The Clitheroe and Pendle Hill Loop is a demanding 18.8 km hike with significant elevation, providing a rewarding experience and stunning views from Pendle Hill.

Absolutely. Many of the dog-friendly routes in the Ribble Valley are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Sabden Valley loop – Forest of Bowland, a moderate 10.2 km route, and the Whalley Old Bridge – River Calder loop from Whalley, which is about 9.4 km.

The Ribble Valley offers a diverse landscape for you and your dog to explore. You'll encounter serene riverside paths along the River Ribble and River Calder, lush water meadows, and higher up, bracken and heather moorland. Iconic features like Pendle Hill provide dramatic backdrops and expansive views. The area is also part of the Forest of Bowland, a designated National Landscape.

Yes, the Ribble Valley is known for its scenic vistas. Hikes around Pendle Hill, such as the Clitheroe and Pendle Hill Loop, offer panoramic views. You can also find excellent viewpoints like the View of Pendle Hill and the Trig point at Longridge Fell summit, which are popular with hikers.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in the Ribble Valley, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the variety of landscapes from gentle river walks to challenging hill climbs, and the overall peaceful atmosphere, making it a fantastic destination for walks with dogs.

Yes, the Ribble Valley is rich in history. While hiking, you might pass by charming villages like Whalley, home to Whalley Abbey. The area also has intriguing connections, with J.R.R. Tolkien having spent time here, potentially inspiring parts of 'The Lord of the Rings'. Historical sites like Samlesbury Hall and Sawley Abbey are also within reach, offering cultural stops after your walk.

The Ribble Valley is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings wildflowers to the water meadows, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, but be mindful of warmer temperatures and ensure your dog has access to water. Winter walks can be stunning, especially after a fresh snowfall, but require appropriate gear for both you and your dog.

When hiking with your dog in the Ribble Valley, especially in areas like the Forest of Bowland, it's important to keep your dog under close control, particularly around livestock. Many routes pass through farmland, so be prepared to use a lead. Always carry water for your dog, especially on longer routes, and remember to pick up after them to keep the trails clean for everyone.