With spring officially in motion, dog owners – and their four-legged friends – are once more gearing up for long walks across the country’s picturesque pathways, winding woodlands and vast green spaces – but where are some of the most scenic routes?
To help inspire your next adventure with your pooch, a new roundup by Tails.com has revealed 10 of the best walks across the UK, whittled down from a list of the leading 30.
The ranking was calculated based on the amount of Instagram hashtags each location has.
So, whether you’re planning breezy coastal walks or whimsical strolls through the woods this spring, read on to discover the most beautiful routes for you and your dog to enjoy.
South West Coast Path – Somerset, Devon, Cornwall
If it’s breathtaking coastal views and hillside walks you’re after, the South West Coast Path might just be the place.
The area boasts eight miles of unspoilt cliffside views, dramatic rock formations and fresh sea air – a refreshing start to the new season.
Dogs are free to splash around in the sea and run along the sand, with many beaches along the route welcoming dogs throughout the year.
Derwentwater Circular – Lake District, Cumbria
This 10-mile scenic loop around Derwentwater follows winding paths through ancient woodland and along the iconic lake.
Perfect for both people and dogs, this enjoyable trail provides the perfect opportunity to take in views of the Lake District, with various dog-friendly cafés and picnic spots along the way.
Northumberland Coast Path, Northumberland
If you’re planning a trip to the North East this spring, it’s worth making a stop at the Northumberland Coast Path.
This historic coastal route offers the perfect mix of scenery, fresh air, and relaxing walks, featuring expansive dunes, dramatic views, and miles of dog-friendly shorline – and the iconic Bamburgh Castle can even be spotted from afar on clear days.
West Highland Way, Milngavie to Fort William, Scotland
The West Highland Way – one of Scotland’s most famous walking routes – offers an epic 96-mile trek through the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Whether you’re up for a multi-day journey or just a scenic stroll, you’ll be treated to breathtaking mountain vistas and tranquil paths along the lochs.
It’s an ideal way to experience Scotland’s legendary landscapes with your dog as your hiking partner.
Hadrian’s Wall Path, Cumbria
Following the famous 84-mile Roman wall, Hadrian’s Wall Path blends UNESCO World Heritage history with scenic landscapes.
Walkers can enjoy ancient ruins, rolling hills, and charming villages, and the route is generally dog-friendly, though keeping dogs on leads is necessary in farmland with livestock.
Mam Tor & Great Ridge, Peak District, Derbyshire
As a premier hike in the Peak District, Mam Tor offers breathtaking, panoramic views across the Hope Valley, walking along a dramatic, well-maintained path.
Though it’s a fantastic, energetic walk for dogs, its steep conditions can be challenging for older, less mobile pets.
Thames Path, Gloucestershire to Essex
The Thames Path offers a 185-mile scenic journey following England’s most famous river from the Cotswolds to London, blending rural landscapes with historic towns and city scenery.
Ideal for leisurely dog walks, the trail features peaceful stretches of riverside, though some areas require dogs to be on a lead near the road.
New Forest, National Park, Hampshire
The New Forest National Park is a dream for hikers and dog owners, offering a mix of ancient woods, vast heathlands, and scenic trails.
You’ll likely cross paths with the local ponies, and since they roam freely, it’s important to remember to keep your dog on a lead when they’re nearby.
The ground can get pretty boggy in some areas, so wear sturdy boots and pack a towel to dry off your pup afterward
Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk – East Sussex
The Seven Sisters coastal walk is widely considered one of England’s most scenic routes, offering breathtaking views of dramatic white chalk cliffs overlooking the English Channel.
While it offers stunning, panoramic views, the 13-mile trail can be demanding due to the frequent climbs and descents across the seven hills.
South Downs Way – Hampshire to East Sussex
Across the South Downs Way, which runs through the heart of the South Downs National Park, dog owners and their pooches are free to roam across miles of rolling countryside offering spectacular views of the wider area.
This route features long, gentle climbs and exposed ridges, and, while not overly steep, the sparse resting spots make it demanding for older dogs, so it’s advised to schedule frequent breaks.