Derbyshire is the perfect place for fans of the great outdoors to spend some time, as it offers so many fantastic opportunities for all kinds of fun-filled outdoor activities – especially walking. And who better to share a stroll with than your faithful furry friend?
When it comes to dog walks in Derbyshire and the Peak District, there is so much choice, it can be hard to know where to start. Not to worry, we’ve compiled some suggestions of Derbyshire dog walks to set tails wagging; from the Monsal Trail to Derby Arboretum, there are options to suit all breeds and energy levels.
Let Fido lead the way as you explore this beautiful part of the country, but first, have a browse of our dog-friendly holiday cottages in Derbyshire and pick somewhere to rest those weary paws after a busy day of exploring.
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Monsal Trail circular walk
The Monsal Trail is a popular walking, cycling and horse-riding route that follows the former Manchester to London Midland Railway line from Buxton to Bakewell. This particular walk is 4 miles long and is great to explore with your faithful friend at your side. It takes you off the trail and along a section of the River Wye – including some limestone stepping stones – before rejoining the trail. Revel in the gorgeous riverside scenery and perhaps dip those paws in the water!
Nelson’s Monument, Three Ships, and Wellington’s Monument
One for history fans. This delightful walk affords some fabulous views of Derbyshire’s countryside while visiting intriguing historical monuments. The first you’ll encounter on this 4.5-mile trail is a trio of large rocks on Birchen Edge, carved with the names of three ships of Lord Nelson’s fleet: Victory, Defiance and Royal Soverin (sic). Near the Three Ships is Nelson’s Monument, a gritstone obelisk erected in 1810 by Baslow man John Brightman, following Nelson’s death at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Further along the route stands Wellington’s Monument, celebrating the Duke of Wellington’s victory at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.
Stay nearby: Hawkfield, Baslow | Sleeps 6 + 2 dogs
Castleton, Mam Tor and the Great Ridge
This spectacular ridge walk takes in some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the Peak District. Starting in Castleton, this route offers views of Edale, Hope Valley and the edge of Kinder Scout, and there are two options available: 6.5 or 8 miles. Both are rewarding for visitors human and canine alike. At the summit of Mam Tor, capture the moment with a photograph or two. Then it’s on to Black Tor and Lose Hill Pike. Shortly after this, you can choose between going straight back to Castleton or continuing to Hope and taking the riverside route back to Castleton. Reward yourself with some refreshments in one of Castleton’s many dog-friendly eateries.
Chatsworth Aqueduct
Next on the list of our top dog walks in Derbyshire is this 4.5-mile trek at Chatsworth. Along the way, you’ll encounter the intriguing gritstone rock formation of Rabbit Warren Crag and visit the enchanting Stand Wood, the 385-acre medieval woodland that lies on the hill behind Chatsworth House. The woodland is home to the narrow aqueduct, made up of four large arches with a waterfall cascading off the end – truly breathtaking to behold. This section calls for steady feet and paws as it involves steep steps down to the other side of the aqueduct. A forest road heading south signals the start of the return journey.
Derby Arboretum
Derby Arboretum rates highly on our list of Derbyshire dog walks. Close to the centre of Derby, this Grade II-listed park is famous for being Britain’s first specially designed public park and was commissioned and donated by Philanthropist Joseph Strutt in 1840. These days, it makes a wonderful place to stroll with the doggo, so why not spend some time meandering among the trees, some of which are listed on the British Isles Tree Register? With toilets, a café and plenty of picnic spots, Derby Arboretum is a tranquil dog-friendly haven.
Kedleston Hall long walk
This route has it all – woodland, parkland and lakeside vistas. At just over 3 miles long, it’s perfect for a morning or afternoon stroll with your pup. Due to sheep and cows grazing in the parkland, they must stay on the lead, but that doesn’t diminish the sights and smells they can investigate. Keep an eye out for glimpses of the 18th-century Kedleston Hall from certain sections of the walk.
Carsington Water
Escape to this scenic reservoir offering several walking routes that will set tails wagging. Ranging from just over 4 miles to 8.5 miles in length, take your pick from these three walks, tailoring your trek to the time available and how far you fancy going. The routes take in the villages of Carsington, Brassington and Hopton, as well as quintessential country lanes and woodland. Pack your own provisions or grab some refreshments at Carsington Water Visitor Centre, where you can pick up some other walk ideas and maps.
Kinder Scout
We end our list with the big one – Kinder Scout offers a challenging but rewarding prospect for any walker and their faithful hound. The pinnacle of Derbyshire Peak District dog walks, this circular moorland trek is for adventurous dogs and those lucky enough to be at the other end of the lead. It’s best to dedicate a whole day to the endeavour, with 7.5 miles to cover that includes some challenging ascents and descents. Trust us, though, the effort is more than worth it: the highest point in the Peak District offers unparalleled views and is sure to create lifelong memories.
Places to stay in Derbyshire
Our Derbyshire holiday cottages offer dog-friendly accommodation where you can rest and relax after tackling some of the fabulous Derbyshire dog walks listed here. We’ve got everything from cosy cottages for couples – and a four-legged friend – to large properties for when the whole family is taking a break together. There’s no need to ‘paws’ for thought, click the button below and book that Derbyshire stay today!
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.