The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around North East Derbyshire

North East Derbyshire boasts over 120 dog-friendly hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. This ensures a wide variety of options for you and your canine companion to explore the diverse landscapes of the region.

The terrain varies significantly, offering everything from gentle, mostly flat paths around scenic reservoirs and through ancient woodlands, to more undulating routes across rolling hills and moorlands. You'll also find trails bordering the Peak District, featuring gritstone edges and more rugged paths. Many routes follow well-maintained paths, but some can be muddy, especially after rain.

Yes, there are many easy and accessible options. The trails around the Linacre Reservoirs are particularly popular for their mostly flat paths through beautiful woods, ideal for a relaxed walk with your dog. Another great option is the Linacre Reservoir loop, which is also very gentle.

Absolutely. Many of the dog-friendly routes in North East Derbyshire are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps. Examples include the Linacre Park & 3 Reservoirs loop and the Ashover Rock (The Fabrick) – Fall Hill Quarry loop, which offers stunning views.

You'll encounter a variety of natural beauty and historical points. The Linacre Reservoirs are surrounded by picturesque woodlands, especially beautiful with bluebells in spring. You can also visit Ogston Reservoir, or explore areas like Totley Moor for expansive views. Historic sites like Hardwick Hall Estate and Sutton Scarsdale Hall also offer walking paths.

Yes, North East Derbyshire offers several trails with rewarding views. The walk to Ashover Rock (The Fabrick) provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. Areas bordering the Peak District, such as near White Edge, also offer impressive views across the gritstone edges and moorlands.

The trails in North East Derbyshire are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the region's diverse scenery, from tranquil woodlands and reservoirs to open moorland, and the well-maintained paths. The abundance of dog-friendly options and the peaceful atmosphere are also commonly highlighted.

Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful for hiking with dogs. In spring, the woodlands, especially around Linacre Reservoirs, are carpeted with bluebells. Autumn brings vibrant colours to the trees. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while winter can be crisp and clear, though some paths may become muddy or icy. Always check weather conditions before heading out.

When hiking near the Peak District border, be mindful of livestock, especially during lambing season. Keep your dog on a lead around farm animals and ground-nesting birds. Some areas may have stiles that are difficult for larger dogs to navigate, so be prepared to lift them or seek alternative routes. Always carry water for your dog, especially on longer routes.

Many popular trailheads and attractions, such as the Linacre Reservoirs and Ashover, have dedicated car parks. For routes starting in villages, street parking may be available, but always check local signage and be considerate of residents. It's advisable to check the route details on komoot for specific parking information before your trip.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, routes like the White Edge – White Edge loop from Baslow and Bubnell CP offer moderate difficulty with significant distance and elevation changes. The Woodland Pathway – Linacre Reservoirs Entrance loop from Barlow is another longer, moderate option that provides a good workout for both you and your dog.

Yes, North East Derbyshire features trails that utilize former railway lines, which are often flat and well-surfaced, making them excellent for dog walks. The Five Pits Trail is a notable example, following the route of the old Great Central Railway. While not explicitly listed in the provided routes, these types of trails are generally very dog-friendly due to their even terrain.