Top 5 Walking Spots to Walk Your Dog in England for National Walking Month

National Walking Month is the perfect time to lace up your boots, grab your dog’s lead, and explore some of England’s most breathtaking walking spots. Whether you’re looking for rolling hills, dense forests, or coastal paths, England has a wealth of dog-friendly trails to enjoy. Here are five of the best (in our opinion) places to walk your furry friend this May. 

Dartmoor National Park, Devon 

If you and your pup enjoy a more rugged adventure, Dartmoor National Park is the place to go. Known for its dramatic landscapes, rocky tracks, and wide-open spaces, this area provides endless opportunities for exploring. Wistman’s Wood, a mystical and ancient oak woodland, is a particularly enchanting spot to visit. Always check for livestock grazing in the area and adhere to park regulations. 

Car Park ✅ 

Cafe ❌ 

Public Toilets ❌ But there are some in a nearby village, Princetown. 

Shops ❌ 

The Peak District, Derbyshire

For those seeking spectacular scenery, the Peak District is a must-visit. With an abundance of trails, from gentle riverside strolls to challenging hill climbs, this national park caters to all levels of dog walkers. Mam Tor offers stunning panoramic views and is relatively easy to hike with your four-legged companion. Just be mindful of local wildlife and keep your dog on a lead where necessary (greyhounds are likely to be on-lead anyway).  

Car Park ✅ 

Cafe ✅ There is a coffee shop in the car park called Bean on the Edge 

Public Toilets ✅ Yes, they can be found at the start of the walk at Castleton Visitors Centre. 

Shops ❌ 

Holkham Beach, Norfolk 

For dogs that love to splash in the waves, Holkham Beach is an unbeatable location. This vast, sandy beach is part of the Holkham National Nature Reserve, ensuring a beautiful and unspoiled landscape. The combination of dunes, pine forests and shallow waters makes for a fun and varied walk. Just be sure to check tide times before setting out and respect any seasonal wildlife restrictions. A bonus is that all dogs are welcome on Holkham Beach all year round, but from 1st April to 31st August annually, the council have a dogs-on-leads policy in the most vulnerable areas of the beach, leaving over 70% open to walking off lead under close control.  

Car Park ✅ 

Cafe ✅ Yes, it’s called, ‘The Lookout’ located via the beach. 

Public Toilets ✅ Yes, in the carpark. 

Shops ✅ Yes in the Holkham village as you walk through to the beach.  

Thetford Forest, Suffolk 

Nestled in the heart of East Anglia, Thetford Forest is a paradise for dog walkers. With miles of well-marked trails through the woodland, this forest offers a mix of shaded paths and open land. Your pup will love sniffing around the strongly smelling pine trees while you take in the fresh air and natural beauty. High Lodge is a great starting point, with amenities such as picnic areas and cafés to recharge after your walk. 

Car Park ✅ 

Cafe ✅ Yes, it’s called, ‘High Lodge’ located at the starting point.  

Public Toilets ✅ Yes, they’re located all around the forest.  

Shops ✅ Yes there is a visitor centre to buy items, alongside a sports centre to hire equipment.

The South Downs, Sussex 

Rolling green hills, chalk cliffs, and stunning coastal views define the South Downs. This picturesque area offers fantastic walks for both humans and dogs. The Seven Sisters Country Park provides a scenic and invigorating route along the famous white cliffs, which is a great way to get outdoors. With plenty of dog-friendly pubs nearby, it’s the perfect spot for a day out with your furry friend.

Car Park ✅ 

Cafe ✅ Yes, it’s called, ‘Saltmarsh Farmhouse Cafe’ near the start.  

Public Toilets ✅ Yes, they’re located in the visitor centre.  

Shops ✅ Yes there is a visitor centre to buy souvenirs 

National Walking Month is a fantastic opportunity to embrace the great outdoors with your dog. Whether you prefer forested trails or coastal strolls, these top five walking spots provide something for every pup and their owner. So, grab your lead, pack some treats and set off on an adventure to explore England’s stunning landscapes!