The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around New Mills

There are nearly 30 dog-friendly hiking trails around New Mills, offering a wide variety of distances and difficulties. You'll find everything from easy riverside strolls to more challenging climbs with panoramic views.

The terrain around New Mills is quite varied. You can expect riverside paths along the Sett and Goyt, sections of the Peak Forest Canal towpath, and trails through the dramatic Torrs Gorge. For more challenging routes, you'll encounter steeper ascents and potentially rocky paths, especially when heading towards areas like Lantern Pike. Many routes combine natural beauty with historic industrial features.

Yes, New Mills offers several easy dog-friendly walks. The Sett Valley Trail – St Matthew's Church, Hayfield loop from Hayfield is a good option, covering about 5 km with minimal elevation. These flatter routes often follow old railway lines or canal towpaths, providing a gentle experience for all.

For impressive views, consider routes that ascend to higher ground. Trails leading to Lantern Pike, such as the Monks Descent to Lantern Pike – Lantern Pike summit loop from Knarrs Nook Farm, offer expansive vistas across the Peak District. The Millennium Walkway itself provides unique views into the Torrs Gorge.

Many of the dog-friendly routes around New Mills are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the St Matthew's Church, Hayfield – Sett Valley Trail loop from New Mills is a moderate circular hike that takes you through varied landscapes.

New Mills is rich in natural beauty and industrial heritage. You can explore the dramatic Torrs Gorge, where the Rivers Sett and Goyt converge, and walk along the unique Millennium Walkway. Other highlights include the tranquil Mousley Bottom Nature Reserve and Goytside Meadows, and remnants of historic mills and railway viaducts that tell the story of the town's past.

Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous adventure with their dog, there are difficult routes available. The Kinder Reservoir – The Torrs Millennium Walkway loop from New Mills Central is a challenging 20 km hike with significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding experience for fit hikers and their canine companions.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails around New Mills, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 2,200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, the blend of natural beauty with fascinating industrial heritage, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable walks with dogs.

New Mills is well-served by public transport, making it accessible for hikers. New Mills Central and New Mills Newtown stations provide train links, and local bus services connect to surrounding areas. Many trailheads are within walking distance of the town centre or public transport stops, allowing you to start your adventure without a car.

New Mills and its surrounding villages are generally welcoming to dogs. You'll find several dog-friendly pubs and cafes where you can refuel after your hike. It's always a good idea to check with individual establishments beforehand, especially if you plan to dine indoors.

New Mills offers enjoyable hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage in the gorges and woodlands. Summer is ideal for longer days, but be mindful of warmer temperatures for your dog. Winter walks can be beautiful, but paths may be muddy or icy, so appropriate gear is essential.