There are few things more refreshing than a good ramble with your doggo in the great outdoors, so we’ve compiled a list of the best dog walks in Lancashire.
Including the peaks and troughs of the West Pennine Moors, the enchanting leafy landscapes of the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and the golden beaches of its coastline, there are so many scenic trails for the whole pack to explore on a dog-friendly holiday in Lancashire.
If you need somewhere to rest your paws in between adventures, just click the button below to browse our pet-friendly cottages. And, for other great places to walk your canine pal, check out our guide to North of England walkies, or our complete guide to the UK’s best dog walks.
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The best countryside dog walks in Lancashire
Where can I walk my dog in Lancashire? From woodland wanders to hillside hikes, read on to discover some of the best countryside walks in Lancashire for dogs and their owners.
Pendle Hill, Nelson
At 557 metres high (just 53 metres short of being a mountain), Pendle Hill is an iconic landmark in the Forest of Bowland AONB. Rising above an ancient hunting ground, its looming presence can be seen from miles around.
But can dogs walk up Pendle Hill? Yes, they can – and not only is this one of the best dog walks in Lancashire, but it’s also one of the most famous as it’s synonymous with the Pendle Witches who were condemned here in 1612. The scamper up the hill even passes along the Pendle Witches Way in places. How long does it take to walk up and down Pendle Hill, you might be wondering? There’s a range of different routes to the top, depending on how energetic your pack is feeling. The shortest trail is 4 miles and the longest is around 7.5 miles.
Why your dog will love it: Pups who make it to the summit will be rewarded with mesmerising 360-degree views. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Lake District to the north, the Yorkshire Three Peaks to the east, the Snowdon range to the south and even Blackpool Tower out to the west.
Spring Wood, Whalley
Famous for its sweetly scented carpet of bluebells in the spring, this semi-ancient woodland is one of the best examples in the county and has Biological Heritage status. But are the bluebell woods dog friendly? Yes, pups are welcome with open paws so if you’re looking for nice walks in Lancashire, then this 40-acre woodland is sure to set tails wagging.
As Fido weaves in and out of the trees, keep your eyes peeled for roe deer and families of squirrels, and enjoy listening to the soothing melodies of warblers, jays, and chiffchaffs. You’ll find a variety of waymarked trails through the woodland, including this easy 2-mile amble.
Why your dog will love it: There are plenty of opportunities for stick-chasing and bounding across fallen branches.
Beacon Fell Country Park, Goosnargh
If you’re looking for dog-friendly walks near Preston, then Beacon Fell Country Park is a perfect pick for your pack. One of the oldest country parks in the UK, it’s a haven for nature lovers and those seeking good dog walks with incredible views. The park includes 271 acres of woodland, moorland, and farmland, as well as its namesake, Beacon Fell, which proudly sits at 233 metres high.
There are a few different trails that spiral up to the summit and from its peak, you and Rover can appreciate spectacular views across the Forest of Bowland and towards Morecambe Bay – on a clear day, it’s even possible to glimpse the Isle of Man.
Why your dog will love it: One of the walking routes includes a sculpture trail which features all manner of intricately carved wooden animals. Your happy hound will have great fun sniffing out the snake, owl, and giant dragonfly.
Rivington Pike, Chorley
One of our favourite walks in Chorley, Rivington Pike is the crowning jewel atop the West Pennine Moors. Its sweeping vistas and rich tapestry of history have long attracted hikers. There are several routes to the top, but one of the most popular begins at Pigeon Tower car park and climbs for 2 miles through Rivington Terraced Gardens. These verdant grounds are the legacy left behind by Lord Leverhulme and boast a Japanese lake, waterfalls, and the ruins of pagodas and oriental tea houses.
So, can dogs go to Rivington Pike? Yes, this is one of the top dog-friendly Chorley walks with a myriad of new sights, smells and sounds for playful pups to discover.
Why your dog will love it: At the summit of the pike, woofers can feel the wind through their fur as they soak up the views of Blackpool Tower, the fells of the Lake District and the Welsh mountains.
The best coastal dog walks in Lancashire
Uncover glorious beaches, bountiful wildlife, and awe-inspiring views with these dog-friendly coastal Lancashire walks.
Silverdale and Jenny Brown’s Point
Home to RSPB Leighton Moss Nature Reserve and a stunning stretch of shoreline, Silverdale is a lush part of the county. It is also a much-beloved location for dog walks in Lancashire – one of the most popular trails being the scenic route to Jenny Brown’s Point.
Beginning at an ornithologist site known as the Eric Morecambe Hide, named after the famous comedian and avid birdwatcher, the ramble continues for 2 miles across a sandy beach and rocky shores. The trail ends at the headland of Jenny Brown’s Point where you can look out across the beautiful Kent Estuary and Morecambe Bay.
Why your dog will love it: Four-legged friends will be in their element as they lead the way past a secret cave in the cliffs, an ancient copper smelting site, and abundant local wildlife.
Lytham St Annes to St Annes on the Sea
If your hound goes barking mad for easy and flat dog-friendly Lancashire walks and you’re staying in one of our dog-friendly cottages in Lytham St Annes, then this 4.5-mile w-a-l-k is sure to prick up their ears. Starting at Lytham Green’s famed windmill, the trail follows the promenade, passing Fairhaven Lake, a beautiful Victorian pier, and miles of golden sand.
St Annes Beach is one of the best beaches in Lancashire, and there are lots of facilities just a short stroll away in the town. Dogs are allowed on the northern end of the beach all year round, however, there is a seasonal restriction for the central section, which is located between the lifeboat station and the pier.
Why your dog will love it: Backed by grassy dunes and traditional beach huts, the beach at St Annes flaunts a vast expanse of soft sand where dogs can play ball games and splash in the shallows.
Red Squirrel Walk, Formby
Managed by the National Trust, Formby Beach is one of the most dog-friendly beaches in Lancashire, allowing pups to make pawprints in the sand all year round. And not only can they look forward to walkies along the shoreline, but behind the dunes, there’s a signposted pathway through the pine trees, where you might be lucky enough to spot a red squirrel.
Freshfield Reserve is one of the last places in England where you can catch a glimpse of the rare red squirrel in its natural habitat. These captivating creatures, with their bushy tails and tufty pointed ears, are in huge decline in the UK but here, there’s the chance to witness them bouncing among the trees and nibbling on pinecones. As long as pups are kept on the lead, they can follow this 2-mile trail, one of our favourite dog-friendly circular walks in Lancashire.
Why your dog will love it: With the sea on one side and dense woodland on the other, there is plenty for your pack to enjoy here. Plus, there are several self-filling dog bowls in the car park, as well as a dog-friendly picnic area and plenty of poo bins.
Mythic Coast Artwork Trail, Cleveleys
Cultured canines will go mutts for the Mythic Coast Artwork Trail in Cleveleys. Experience dog walking in Lancashire with a difference along this seafront sculpture scamper which features a collection of art installations inspired by the popular children’s book, ‘The Sea Swallow’.
There are five remarkable sculptures to discover along the promenade and shoreline – each steeped in maritime history and local folk law. Pups can climb inside the 4-metre-high Mary’s Shell when the tide is out and listen to the sounds of the sea and come paw to paw with a giant Sea Ogre. Between 1 May and 30 September, there is a seasonal dog ban that extends from Café Cove to the end of the sea defences at Kingsway. Outside of this timeframe, dogs are welcome on all the beaches in Cleveleys.
Why your dog will love it: There are so many opportunities for selfies with the impressive sculptures, perfect to make all your pup's playmates drool with envy back home.
Dog-friendly holidays in Lancashire
Have these delightful dog walks in Lancashire got you reaching for the collar and lead? If so, treat the whole pack to a stay in one of our dog-friendly cottages in Lancashire, and choose a cosy base for your escapades. Click the button below to browse our full collection of self-catering accommodation in Lancashire.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.