Blessed with striking landscapes, open spaces, and an array of wildlife, Weardale, a charming part of County Durham, is a hiker's dream. It's an even bigger dream if you're a dog owner! With miles of untouched terrain and plenty of fresh air, it's the perfect spot for both humans and their furry friends. In this article, we'll guide you through the 10 best dog-friendly walks in Weardale.
1. The Weardale Way
Our first choice is the iconic Weardale Way. This 73-mile trail can be segmented into smaller, manageable pieces, with plenty of opportunities for dogs to explore and humans to take in picturesque surroundings. Remember to pack plenty of water for you and your four-legged companion.
2. Killhope Lead Mining Museum to Cowshill
This shorter 3-mile walk offers you and your canine an educational and enjoyable experience. Walk in the footsteps of Weardale's mining history, then proceed through the glorious countryside.
3. Frosterley Walk
Moving to the heart of Weardale, the Frosterley Walk is a 5-mile loop that offers scenic views of the River Wear. Known for its unique Frosterley marble, the village is a perfect place for a short stroll with your canine pal.
4. Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk
Covering just over 4 miles, the Tunstall Reservoir trail is perfect for dog walkers. The circular route provides enchanting views of the reservoir, woodland, and open countryside. Keep your dog on a leash near the water, but there are plenty of safe spaces for them to roam.
5. Bollihope Common Circular
The Bollihope Common Circular covers 6 miles of Weardale's stunning landscape. This dog-friendly trail provides open moorland, serene rivers, and the sight of the abandoned Bollihope Quarry. Ensure your dog is on a leash as sheep graze freely here.
6. Hamsterley Forest Walk
While not strictly in Weardale, Hamsterley Forest is only a short drive away and well worth a visit. This 5-mile trek takes you through beautiful woodland and open spaces, perfect for a game of fetch with your pooch.
7. Wolsingham Wayfarer Walk
This 8.5-mile route begins and ends in the lovely market town of Wolsingham. The route offers a bit of everything – riverside paths, woodland walks, and a taste of Weardale's rolling farmland. A sure delight for your dog!
8. Hunstanworth Circular Walk
The Hunstanworth Circular Walk, covering about 5 miles, is a fantastic choice for a relaxing day out with your dog. The route features meandering paths through woodland and farmland, offering splendid views of the surrounding countryside.
9. Rookhope Circular Walk
The Rookhope Circular is a 6.5-mile hike starting from the historic village of Rookhope. Enjoy panoramic views of the valley and keep an eye out for local wildlife. Don’t forget to leash your dog in areas with livestock.
Weardale, with its diverse landscape and range of dog-friendly hiking routes, truly is a paradise for dogs and their owners. Before embarking on these adventures, remember to respect the Countryside Code to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
With this guide to the 9 best dog-friendly walks in Weardale, you're ready to lace up your hiking boots and leash up your four-legged friend for some unforgettable adventures.
Station Lodge Park in Wolsingham, right in the heart of Weardale, is more than a property—it’s a lifestyle choice that offers unmatched benefits. Owning a lodge here gives you unparalleled access to stunning landscapes, unique heritage, and, of course, a wide range of dog-friendly walks, as we've explored in this post.
There's an unbeatable sense of community amongst lodge owners, with shared appreciation for the stunning natural environment. It’s a place where every morning you can wake up to the serene landscapes, and every evening you can retreat to the comfort of your lodge after a day of exploring with your four-legged friend.
By owning a lodge at Station Lodge Park, you’re not just buying a home, you're investing in a higher quality of life filled with adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. You're not merely living, but thriving in the heart of Weardale.
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