The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Wyre Forest

Wyre Forest offers a wide selection of routes for you and your canine companion, with over 60 dog-friendly hiking trails. These range from easy strolls to more challenging moderate hikes, ensuring there's something for every dog and owner.

The trails in Wyre Forest traverse a diverse landscape. You'll find yourself walking through ancient oak woodlands, which are among the largest in England, as well as open meadows, heathland, and along streams like Dowles Brook. The area also features rolling countryside, offering varied scenic experiences for you and your dog.

Yes, Wyre Forest is very accommodating for all fitness levels. There are over 25 easy dog-friendly routes available, perfect for a leisurely stroll with your dog or for those new to hiking. These trails often feature gentler gradients and well-maintained paths.

Many of the dog-friendly trails in Wyre Forest are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the Wyre Forest – Wyre Forest loop from Bewdley offers a moderate 11 km circular hike through the heart of the forest.

You and your dog can explore a variety of natural and historical points of interest. Highlights include the ancient woodlands themselves, the tranquil Dowles Brook, and the scenic River Severn. You might also encounter historical sites like Knowles Mill or enjoy views of Trimpley Reservoir. The historic town of Bewdley, with its picturesque quayside and Bewdley Bridge, also serves as a charming starting or ending point for many routes.

Absolutely! The Wyre Forest area offers unique opportunities to combine your hike with other experiences. You could walk part of a route and return via the historic Severn Valley Railway, which runs through the area. The town of Bewdley, with its museum and gardens, also provides a lovely stop before or after your walk.

Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, there are several moderate dog-friendly hikes. Consider the Knowles Mill – Bewdley Riverside Promenade loop from Wyre Forest, which covers over 16 km and offers a good workout with varied scenery. Another option is the Bewdley Riverside Promenade – Bewdley Bridge loop from Bewdley, a 15.8 km route with moderate elevation changes.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in Wyre Forest, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful ancient woodlands, the well-maintained paths suitable for dogs, and the beautiful riverside sections along the Severn. The variety of routes, from short strolls to longer adventures, is also frequently highlighted.

The historic town of Bewdley, located on the River Severn and bordering Wyre Forest, is a popular hub for hikers and their dogs. You'll find several dog-friendly pubs and cafes in Bewdley where you can relax and refuel after your walk. Many of the picturesque villages surrounding the forest also offer welcoming establishments.

While Wyre Forest is very dog-friendly, it's always good practice to keep your dog under control, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife. The forest is home to diverse species, including various birds and even adders. Always carry water for your dog, especially on longer routes, and be mindful of other trail users. Some areas may require dogs to be on a lead.

While Wyre Forest is primarily known for its dense woodlands, many trails offer picturesque views, particularly along the River Severn and from elevated sections within the forest. For example, the St Cassian’s Church – View of the Malvern Hills loop from Chaddesley Corbett provides glimpses of the distant Malvern Hills on a clear day, alongside charming countryside scenery.