The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Staffordshire Moorlands

Staffordshire Moorlands offers a vast network of dog-friendly trails. You can explore over 330 routes suitable for hiking with your canine companion, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks.

The trails in Staffordshire Moorlands cater to all abilities. You'll find a good mix, with approximately 117 easy routes perfect for a relaxed walk, 190 moderate trails for a bit more challenge, and 23 difficult options for experienced hikers and their well-conditioned dogs.

The region boasts incredibly diverse landscapes. You can expect rugged gritstone moorlands, picturesque valleys like the Churnet Valley (often called 'Staffordshire's Little Switzerland'), limestone formations, and tranquil woodlands. Iconic features such as The Roaches and Ramshaw Rocks offer dramatic scenery, while areas like Dimmingsdale Valley provide serene forest walks.

When hiking with your dog, always be mindful of livestock, especially in open moorland and farmland areas. Keep your dog on a lead where necessary, particularly during lambing season or near grazing animals. Many trails pass through rural areas, so be prepared for stiles and varied terrain. Always carry water for your dog, especially on longer routes.

You can explore several natural landmarks with your dog. Consider visiting the atmospheric Lud's Church, a moss-covered chasm steeped in legend. Another striking feature is Thor's Cave in the Manifold Valley, a natural arch offering impressive views. The dramatic gritstone ridges of The Roaches are also a popular spot for scenic walks.

Yes, many of the dog-friendly routes in Staffordshire Moorlands are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Rudyard Lake loop and the Grindon and Wetton Hill Circular are popular options that bring you back to your starting point.

For easier walks, consider routes around reservoirs or through woodlands. The You will love this lane – Three Shires Head loop from Roaches Gradbach is an easy option. The Saltersford Lane Circular, following the River Churnet, and trails within Consall Nature Park or Dimmingsdale Woods are also excellent choices for a gentle stroll with your dog.

Yes, several trails feature water bodies where dogs can potentially cool off. Routes around Rudyard Lake and Tittesworth Water offer lakeside paths. The Churnet Valley and Manifold Valley also have rivers that run alongside many trails, providing opportunities for dogs to paddle, though always be mindful of currents and water quality.

The dog-friendly trails in Staffordshire Moorlands are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 7,300 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning and varied scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the sense of tranquility found on many routes, making them perfect for exploring with dogs.

While specific establishments aren't listed in the route data, the Staffordshire Moorlands region is known for its welcoming rural communities. Many villages and towns near popular hiking spots often have dog-friendly pubs and cafes where you can refuel after your walk. It's always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand, especially if you have a large dog or are visiting during peak times.

For those seeking a longer adventure with their dog, sections of the Staffordshire Way, a long-distance footpath spanning approximately 92 miles across the county, pass through the Staffordshire Moorlands. While not a single dog-friendly route in its entirety, you can explore various segments for extended walks.