1. National Trust dog-walking trail, Northumberland
One of the National Trust’s recommended dog-walking trail is a 6 mile stretch from Craster to Low Newton-by-the-Sea, by way of the sweeping bay of Embleton Sands. This is a walk for all seasons with dune flowers blooming in spring, paddling and picnics in summer, migrating birds in the autumn and ethereal light and empty space in winter. Dunstan’s Hill Camping and Caravan park is ideally positioned mid-way on the walking trail and just above the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle.
Stay: Dunstan Hill Camping & Caravanning Park
2. Bodmin & Wenford Railway, Cornwall
Take a ride on a traditional steam train through the beautiful Cornwall countryside – with your dog by your side. Aside from in the Dining Car dogs on leads are welcome on this evocative trip by rail. There are even options to book on to drive one of the locomotives.
Stay: Camelford Club site
3. Croome Court House & Garden, Worcester
Croome Court certainly lays out the red carpet for their canine visitors. There are dog friendly maps, downloadable walks, water bowls, waste bins/bags and tether points all provided to make the trip with your dog here effortlessly enjoyable. There is even a pooch-only hashtag #dogsofcroome – although all sticks on offer are strictly of the non-selfie variety. Definitely somewhere you are your dog can spend a doggie-fun-filled day.
Stay: Blackmore Camping & Caravanning Club site
4. Corfe Castle Model Village, Isle of Purbeck, Dorset
Visit this model village and gardens and see what the ancient ruins would have looked like before it was destroyed by Cromwell’s troops in 1646. Dogs are permitted anywhere on site – including the tea room – and water bowls are provided too. After you have explored the village and seen around the iconic Castle itself, you can head to the two nearby national nature reserves of Hartland Moor and Studland and Godlingston Heath.
5. The Glens of Antrim, Northern Ireland
Aside from the nine glens that encompass some 80 miles of shoreline from the Antrim plateau to the coast, there is a wealth of natural sites to explore where your dog won’t feel out of place. Fairy falls, grasslands, peatbogs, majestic mountain uplands and awe-inspiring cliffs characterise this corner of Northern Ireland. Not to mention the famous Giant’s Causeway.
Stay: Drumaheglis Marina and Caravan Park
6. The Fife Coastal Path, Scotland
Stretching for 117 miles from the Forth estuary in the South to the Tay estuary in the North, the Fife Coastal path is hugely popular with dog-walkers. It is way-marked and maintained by Fife Coast and Countryside Trust. The section between Elie to St Monan’s takes in some fascinating ruins and sandy shore-lines for you and your dog to explore together. Fife is also the home of Golf, and there are plenty of fairways to visit – from world-renowned courses such as Elie to Balcomie Links near the picturesque fishing port of Crail. Plenty of golf courses accept well-behaved dogs on leads but do check in advance to be sure.
Stay: Balbirnie Park Club Site
7. The Conwy Valley, Wales
The Conwy Valley stretches from the foothills of Mount Snowdon to the coast with fertile pastures, gorges and waterfalls. It is doggie nirvana when it comes to walking and there are dog-friendly attractions such as the Conwy Water Gardens. The high peaks of the Snowdonia National Park dominate the skyline over Conwy, which is well worth a visit in itself being a classic medieval walled town with an imposing fortified castle straddling the banks of the river Conwy.
Stay: Riverside Touring Park
Before you go don't miss our top tips on keeping your dog happy while on holiday including what to pack for your pooch, top sites for dogs and how to keep your pup healthy.
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