The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Shepway

There are 28 dog-friendly hiking trails around Shepway, offering a wide range of options for you and your canine companion. These routes vary in length and difficulty, ensuring there's something for every preference.

Yes, Shepway offers 10 easy dog-friendly routes perfect for a relaxed stroll with your pet. An excellent option is the Royal Military Canal – View of Lympne Castle loop from Lympne, which is just over 7 km and features minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a leisurely outing.

Absolutely. Many of the dog-friendly trails in Shepway are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the RSPB Dungeness loop from Lydd-on-Sea offers a moderate circular hike through a unique landscape.

Shepway's dog-friendly trails offer diverse terrain. You'll find coastal paths along dramatic cliffs with stunning views of the English Channel, unique shingle landscapes at Dungeness, and inland routes that follow the historic Royal Military Canal. Some paths may be grassy, while others are gravel or shingle, so appropriate footwear for both you and your dog is recommended.

Dog restrictions on beaches in Shepway can vary by location and season. While some beaches, like parts of Dungeness, are generally dog-friendly year-round, others, such as Dymchurch Beach or Greatstone Beach, may have seasonal restrictions, especially during peak summer months. It's always best to check local signage or council websites before visiting specific beach areas.

Many trails offer views of fascinating landmarks. You can walk alongside the historic Gravel Path Along Royal Military Canal, explore the unique shingle landscape near Dungeness with its lighthouses, or enjoy the coastal scenery near Lower Leas Coastal Park. The area also boasts sections of the Saxon Shore Way and North Downs Way, offering historical and natural points of interest.

The Folkestone and Hythe District, which encompasses much of Shepway, is generally welcoming to dog owners. Many pubs and cafes in towns like Folkestone, Hythe, and New Romney offer outdoor seating or designated dog-friendly areas. It's a good idea to check with individual establishments beforehand, especially if you plan to dine indoors with your dog.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in Shepway, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the unique natural landscapes like Dungeness, and the variety of routes that cater to different energy levels for both humans and dogs. The well-maintained paths and opportunities for off-lead exercise are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, Shepway offers 4 difficult and 14 moderate dog-friendly routes. The Dungeness Fish Hut – Dungeness Old Lighthouse loop from Lade is a moderate 15 km hike that takes you through the distinctive Dungeness landscape, providing a good workout for both you and your dog.

Public transport options, including buses and trains, serve various towns and villages within Shepway, such as Folkestone, Hythe, and Lydd. Many public transport providers allow well-behaved dogs, often on a lead and sometimes with specific restrictions or at the driver's discretion. It's advisable to check the specific operator's dog policy before planning your journey.

Shepway offers enjoyable dog-friendly hiking year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds than summer. Winter walks can be invigorating, especially along the coast, though paths might be muddy. Summer is popular, but remember to bring plenty of water for your dog and be mindful of potential heat on exposed coastal routes.