Set in the heart of England, picturesque Derbyshire is a paradise for four-pawed adventures thanks to the county’s charming cocktail of natural beauty, delightful towns and villages, and rich history.
Humans and hounds are spoiled with walking trails that celebrate the wonders of the Peak District National Park, while limestone ravines and historic canals also await your pooch’s discovery. Get a taste of local life with visits to Buxton, Castleton, Hartington and many other characterful towns that offer a glimpse into Derbyshire’s heritage and culture.
Combining outdoor adventures, dog-friendly places to eat and drink, and places to stay, this canine guide walks you through our favourite destinations across Derbyshire. If you’ve already got Fido’s day planned out, why not extend your getaway with a night in one of our dog-friendly cottages nearby?
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Dog-friendly days out in Derbyshire
Whether you fancy a day in the fresh air or a step back in time, Derbyshire is ready and waiting with a wide range of attractions and destinations. Here are some of our favourite dog-friendly days out in Derbyshire.
Crich Tramway Village
Photo credit: Crich Tramway Village
History for humans and dog-friendly attractions for hounds; Crich Tramway Village has it all if you’re seeking a Derbyshire day out with Fido. This unique, open-air museum is home to the National Tramway Museum where a wide choice of pooch-friendly exhibits and activities await.
Let the dogs lead the way as they climb aboard the historic tram that still runs through the museum’s grounds and bring them along as you discover the vast collection of vintage trams in the Great Exhibition Hall.
Beyond the trams, the Woodland Walk and Sculpture Trail is a haven for outdoor-loving dogs, while the Period Village Scene and dog-friendly cafes and pubs also await doggo discovery.
Why your dog will love it: Dogs will love the feel of the wind through their ears as they take a ride on the fascinating, vintage trams.
Chatsworth Estate
If you’re a fan of grand architecture and rich history, then no visit to Derbyshire is complete without a trip to Chatsworth Estate – one of the UK’s most famous stately homes.
With over 105 acres of flourishing gardens, natural parkland, and woodland for dogs to explore, this grand venue should be high on your list of dog-friendly Derbyshire days out.
Hidden amongst the breathtaking greenery are doggy drinking stations, the dog-friendly Carriage House Café, and Chatsworth’s very own resident pooch – Chatswoof. While dogs aren’t allowed in Chatsworth House itself, they’ll find more than enough to quench their thirst for adventure in the surrounding park and gardens.
Why your dog will love it: Unaware of the history beneath his paws, let Fido explore the beautiful grounds that surround this iconic stately home.
Heights of Abraham
For an unforgettable experience that both humans and hounds will adore, take a trip to the Heights of Abraham via the breathtaking cable car journey that soars across the Derwent Valley, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Derbyshire countryside.
After the 169-metre climb that rises above historic towers and winding rivers, you’ll discover a dog’s paradise in the Heights of Abraham Country Park. Here, let Fido sniff the way through 60 acres of woodland where marked trails, open meadows and peaceful beauty spots also await. Other dog-friendly facilities here include the Terrace Café, scenic picnic areas and the dramatic amphitheatre.
Why your dog will love it: As well as the scenic cable car ride, pooches will love the dog-friendly walks and open spaces that await at the summit.
Dog-friendly walks in Derbyshire
Derbyshire is a haven for walking, with the county’s headline act being the Peak District – the UK’s oldest national park. Amongst these dramatic dales, valleys and other natural wonders are some of the best dog-friendly walks in Derbyshire.
High Peak Trail
Embark on a four-legged adventure along the High Peak Trail, where rich history and abundant natural beauty await your discovery. At 17 miles long, this peaceful, traffic-free route follows the Cromford and Peak Forest canals and promises plenty of nature and serenity along its course.
Depending on your stamina and thirst for adventure, choose from a variety of walks that range from short waterside strolls to day-long hikes that showcase the very best of the Peak District.
Why your dog will love it: Fido will love the traffic-free, verdant spaces and he will enjoy stopping at the many picnic spots along the way.
Tissington Trail
Once a railway line between the Peak District towns of Buxton and Ashbourne, the 13-mile Tissington Trail is no doubt one of the best dog-friendly walks in Derbyshire. The flat and gentle trail not only boasts stunning views of the national park, but it also leads walkers to historic sites that include derelict railway stations, viaducts and tunnels.
Completely traffic-free, hikers here can embrace the beauty and serenity around them where wildlife flourishes and varied scenery awaits. Along the way, find peaceful picnic spots and dog-friendly amenities such as water stations and dog waste bins.
Why your dog will love it: Let dogs sniff the way along this traffic-free walking trail that celebrates the beauty of the Peak District.
Monsal Trail
Another traffic-free former railway line, the popular Monsal Trail is a magnet for dog walkers and cyclists keen to embrace the Peak District’s natural beauty. Thanks to its flat surface and refreshment stops en route, this 8.5-mile trail invites walkers and woofers of all abilities to discover old railway stations and other historic sites.
As one of the most dog-friendly walks in Derbyshire, visitors here can choose to conquer its length in a day, or simply stroll along a short stretch from the various car parks along the way.
Why your dog will love it: Pooches will appreciate the awaiting water stations, as well as the dark tunnels and abandoned railway stations that invite adventure.
Dog-friendly pubs and restaurants in Derbyshire
If you’re on the hunt for restaurants and dog-friendly pubs in Derbyshire, then the county’s wealth of pooch-welcoming venues is sure to impress. Here are some of our favourite spots to pause for a bite, pint, and bowl of water.
The Pack Horse Hayfield
Photo credit: The Pack Horse Hayfield
Nestled on the edge of the Peak District, the award-winning Pack Horse Hayfield is no doubt one of the best dog-friendly pubs in Derbyshire. With a long list of awards and a mention in the Sunday Times, the pub is one of the most popular in the region, amongst both humans and hounds.
Celebrating sustainability and local producers, the pub’s menu boasts lunchtime delights that include High Peak lamb rump and Chatsworth côte du boeuf, while the evening menu offers flamed sea trout, stone bass fillet, and pig trotter croquettes.
Why your dog will love it: Pooches will love the free dog treats from the bar, as well as a fresh bowl of water!
Lubens Bar and Kitchen
Photo credit: Lubens Bar and Kitchen
Derbyshire’s spa town of Buxton plays host to the stylish and dog-friendly Lubens Bar and Kitchen where a delightful interior and even better food and drink await. Surrounded by Buxton’s offerings, this popular restaurant boasts crackling open fires, seasonal food and beer, and a colourful choice of cocktails.
Lubens specialise in sharing boards, while little ones are well catered for thanks to the range of small plates on the menu. Hungrier guests can choose from traditional dishes such as the burger of the day or steamed mussels, and if you’re visiting on the weekend, make sure to check out their popular Sunday roasts.
Why your dog will love it: Let the dog snooze next to the crackling fire after enjoying a complimentary treat and bowl of water.
The Devonshire Arms at Beeley
Photo credit: The Devonshire Arms at Beeley
Thanks to its serene location in the Chatsworth Estate, the Devonshire Arms at Beeley is one of the most delightful, dog-friendly pubs in Derbyshire. Featured in the Michelin Guide and awarded with an AA Rosette, the inn boasts traditional charm and impressive food and drink.
From the menu, spot the award-winning steaks that are sourced from local farms and come served with triple-cooked chips. Choose something smaller from their nibbles menu or opt for a traditional main course such as beer-battered fish and chips or Derbyshire farm burgers.
Why your dog will love it: Pooches will adore the traditional pub interior that boasts an open fire to snooze next to.
Dog-friendly towns and villages in Derbyshire
Hidden amongst the county’s enchanting landscapes are delightful towns and villages that offer an insight into local life. With plenty of attractions and history awaiting, these destinations offer some of the best dog-friendly places to stay in Derbyshire.
Ashbourne
Winding cobbled streets and rich local history await in the market town of Ashbourne in the heart of Derbyshire. Set at the foot of the Peak District National Park, this is one of the best dog-friendly places to stay in Derbyshire if you need a base for walking and visiting local attractions.
Beyond the town’s pooch-welcoming shops, restaurants and pubs, dogs will love sniffing out adventure around nearby Carsington Water and the National Trust’s beauty spot of Dovedale.
Step back in time with visits to The Old Manor or the historic Hudson's Almshouses, and if you’re visiting in February, make sure to watch the famous, centuries-old game of Royal Shrovetide Football.
Why your dog will love it: Fido will love the scenic walks that lead away from town, and the dog-friendly shops and pubs that line the streets.
Bakewell
The delightful town of Bakewell – the Peak District’s largest town – offers historic charm, picturesque architecture and, of course, the famous Bakewell Pudding. The starting point to some of the best dog-friendly walks in Derbyshire, this market town also plays host to buzzing street markets, pooch-friendly shops and traditional pubs.
For a dose of local history, let Fido sniff the way at nearby Haddon Hall and Bakewell Old House Museum, and don’t forget to visit the Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop – when in Rome!
Why your dog will love it: Dogs will love rolling around on the banks of the River Wye and are sure to beg for a crumb of the town’s famous pudding or tart.
Matlock
The county town of Matlock beckons couples with the dogs in tow with its blend of natural beauty, rich heritage and sweet ambience. Surrounded by verdant countryside, the town makes for great walking territory and invites lovers of history with its elegant Georgian and Victorian buildings.
Local attractions where Fido is welcome include the Heights of Abraham, the Peak District Mining Museum and the Lumsdale Valley. For outdoor adventures with the pooch, head to Cromford Canal, Hall Leys Park and Lea Gardens.
Why your dog will love it: Your pooch will love the open green spaces and the scenic walks surrounding the town.
Dog-friendly places to stay in Derbyshire
If you’re seeking a base for your Derbyshire getaway, our collection of dog-friendly cottages has something for every occasion. For some inspiration, here are a few of our favourite dog-friendly places to stay in Derbyshire.
Peak Garden Cottage, Baslow | sleeps 4 + 5 dogs
A great base for Peak District adventures, this countryside retreat offers a wonderful holiday home for small families or couples with up to five furry friends in tow.
Set in a quiet village, wake to the sights and sounds of tranquil countryside before venturing out to discover the national park’s rugged beauty. After days of adventure, return to bask in the bubbles of the private hot tub while the dogs unwind safely in the sun-soaked, lawned garden.
Dawn's House, Cromford | sleeps 6 + 3 dogs
Stunning valley views and chic interiors combine in this delightful property to offer one of the best places to stay in Derbyshire for families with up to three travelling canines.
On balmy evenings, unwind on the patio, shake up a cocktail at the Tiki bar, and let the pooches relax in the three-tiered garden. Overlooking the village pond, both humans and hounds will easily embrace their Derbyshire getaway from this luxurious holiday home.
Fair View House, Buxton | sleeps 14 + 4 dogs
Perfectly suited for large group stays, this wonderful property is the ideal base to unwind in after Derbyshire days out, with plenty of space for up to 14 guests to call home.
With a choice of three wood burners, the dogs will easily nod off after long days of countryside walks. Outside, as humans relax in the private hot tub, let Fido and his friends play safely in the spacious garden or the expansive, enclosed field.
Map of dog-friendly Derbyshire
To help you find our favourite dog-friendly destinations in Derbyshire, see our map below.
Dog-friendly holidays in Derbyshire
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway with the dogs in tow or an overdue gathering of friends, family and woofers, you’re sure to find the perfect property in our collection of dog-friendly places to stay in Derbyshire.
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.