15 MARVELLOUS DOG WALKS IN DERBYSHIRE

The Peak District is largely contained within Derbyshire, therefore that national park alone might fill an entire list of Derbyshire dog walks. Of course, that’s not everything the area has to offer. Derbyshire is home to a wide range of landscapes, from the wooded valleys of the Coalfields to the rocky crags, hills, and large open moors of the Peak District and Derbyshire Dales. In every direction you look in this county, you’ll see stunning countryside.

Not only does the county have beautiful scenery, but it also has some major historical sites. There you may visit the world’s first factory as well as the first public park in Britain (which we’ve included as a stroll on this list).

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These 15 fantastic dog walks in Derbyshire will allow you to see the county’s beautiful landscapes and learn about its fascinating past. Don’t forget to observe the rural code and standard dog-walking etiquette whether you’re roaming wild moors or peaceful parkland. Please pick up after yourself and your pet, and do not alter any outside areas that you visit. Our manner, visitors from all over the world can experience the beauty of this extraordinary county.

PARK AND COUNTRYSIDE WALKS

DERBYSHIRE ARBORETUM

Due to the significance of the location, we had to add this as one of the top dog walks in Derbyshire. This park was the model for Central Park in New York City and holds the distinction of being the first public park in Britain.

Joseph Strutt, ever the benefactor, provided the property for the park so that employees would have a place to play, meditate, and study in the fresh air. It’s still the ideal spot for a relaxing stroll with Fido.

Some locals refer to the park as a “hidden gem” due to its convenient location within the city, just a few minutes’ walk from both the train station and the heart of the action. On-site amenities include restrooms, picnic tables, and a cafe, but if you’re hungry you’ll need to make the trip into town. Derby Cathedral and the adjoining Silk Mill, a friendly and welcoming pub where you and your pet are welcome, are within a half hour’s walk.

Distance of Walks varies
Difficulty: Easy
You can begin your journey from any of the park’s entrances.
Paths, level parkland, and a relatively flat landscape are the defining characteristics of this environment.
On-street parking is free.
Postal Code and Address: Arboretum Square, Derby, DE23 8FZ, Derby Arboretum Park

CHATSWORTH HOUSE

It is widely believed that Pride and Prejudice’s Mr. Darcy’s mansion, Pemberley, was modeled after this stately country manor and its expansive grounds. Many of the garden and estate’s landmarks will be instantly recognizable to fans of the 2005 film for which it served as a stand-in.

Not only does Chatsworth have a significant literary history, but it is also a fantastic location to take your dog for a walk. The portions of this estate that your dog is welcome to explore outnumber the restricted areas. They have free reign to explore the world, excepting the confines of the house and the farmyard. So, you and Fido may take advantage of the estate’s over 1400 acres, 105-acre garden, and assortment of stores and eateries.

Walks in the park are great, but if you want to explore the forest, Stand Woods is open to the public and offers a wide range of trails. Henry the Goldendoodle, the house’s unofficial mascot, may make an appearance as you and your dog roam the grounds.

Distance of 3 to 5 kilometers
Effort Level: Low
Parking lot at Carlton Lees is the starting point.
Parklike, level ground
Free Until March 20, 2020, parking is available.
Mailing address: Chatsworth, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1PP

BIRCHOVER

Beautiful scenery, intimidating gritstone formations, and mysterious stone circles can all be found in the Peak District. All of that, plus more historical information, may be found on this tour around Birchover than on any other in the Peak District.

Within Birchover, you’ll find the Druid Caves and the Rowter Rocks, so you’ll get a taste of the route’s rich history right away. A druid from long ago must have created these mysterious tunnels and carved stone objects. In truth, they were made by a local man named Thomas Eyre in the 18th century, likely with the intention of attracting tourists.

This is the starting point for a journey across Stanton Moor to the Cork Stone. The Nine Ladies, a stone circle where nine ladies were supposedly turned to stone for dancing on the Sabbath, is the centerpiece of this trek.

Your pet will enjoy the wide-open spaces while you and I explore the area’s rich natural and cultural history. In addition to these, the moors are home to numerous burial mounds and a nearby Hermit’s cave.

In Birchover, you can begin and conclude your walk at either The Red Lion Inn or the Druid’s Inn, both of which welcome dogs.

Distance of a 4.8-Kilometer Walk
Effort Level: Low
Road to Birchover as the Point of Departure
Mildly undulating, moor, and meadow make up the landscape here.
Parking is free?
Postal Code: DE4 2BN Address: Main Street, Matlock, Derbyshire

BAKEWELL

As you make your way from Bakewell to Haddon and back, you’ll get to see two rivers—the Wye and the Lathkill. Your dog will be mentally and physically stimulated by the varied terrain, which ranges from urban to rural to wild along the river. Together you can enjoy the outdoors, but your dog won’t understand the significance of the buildings quite as well as you will. You’ll go by Haddon Hall, a magnificent, well-preserved medieval manor, and over a bridge that dates back to Medieval times.

At its outset, this hike follows a stretch of the Monsal Trail, a former railroad bed that is now a favorite path for bikers, hikers, and equestrians.

Before or after your hike, you should stop by Bakewell, and not just to sample the namesake sweet. It’s a dog-friendly town where you can take Fido into most establishments. The town’s convenient location and the abundance of nearby amenities make it an ideal jumping-off point for a wide variety of fantastic dog walks in the Derbyshire Dales.

Total Distance: 9.6km
Challengingness: Middle of the Road
First, get to the heart of Bakewell.
Paths, levels, slopes, and open fields are some examples of the varied topography.
No, there is no free parking.
Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1DS, Bridge Street

FOREST PROWLS

POPPY WOOD

Poppy Wood is a very new forest, thus it still features open areas and young trees. Poppy Wood, which was planted in 2007 as part of The National Forest scheme, will undoubtedly become more attractive as the trees mature.

The wood is totally protected to keep deer out and your dog is free to roam off-lead in this safe environment because the forest is still young.

Starting your stroll from Breach Lane will lead you to a special spot in the woods that both you and your dog will enjoy. This is no ordinary walk in the woods; hidden away is a puppy adventure playground where you can put your dog to the test with a series of agility obstacles. There aren’t many amenities here, but there is a lovely clearing among the trees that would be perfect for a picnic.

Distance Covered While Walking: 3.1 Kilometers
Effort Level: Low
Location: The Breach Lane
Level ground, walking trails, and wooded areas.
Parking is free?
Breach Lane, Melbourne, Derby DE73 8DF

BLACKWELL TRAIL

A portion of the Phoenix Greenways, which spans Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, is known as the Blackwell Trail. Brierley Forest Park, a haven for animals on the site of a decommissioned coal mine, is easily accessible from here. This link allows you to easily extend your walk through the woods with your dog, so we’ve included it on the list as both a great example of a dog walk in the Derbyshire Dales and as a forest walk.

This path connects to the forest and takes you through grassland and wetland, so you can experience a wide range of habitats and species on your stroll. You can alternatively start your trek in Blackwell, a former mining settlement that now features a memorial honoring the town’s mining past.

Distance of a 2.4 Km Walk
Effort Level: Low
Place of Origin: Paved Path, Grassland, Woods, or Wetland
Parking is free?
Postal Code: DE55 5HU 544 New Street, Hilcote, Alfreton

CALKE ABBEY

You and Fido will enjoy a trip to this National Trust property. All of the park and stable yards are open to furry companions’ exploration. In the winter, they can stroll the gardens while leashed. The park is mostly forested, and it is home to the majestic 1,200-year-old oak tree known as “the Old Man of Calke.” Bluebells cover the woodland floor in the spring, making for a breathtakingly gorgeous stroll.

The grounds of the country home are more typical of the countryside than an estate grounds. The majority of the region has been purposefully neglected so that nature can reclaim it at its own pace. The house itself is not spotless; it has been left in its original state for the most part, telling the story of a once-popular rural manor that has now fallen on hard times.

Canines are welcome in the cafe and restaurant courtyards, where they can indulge in some dog-friendly frozen yoghurt. There is an additional cafe by the reservoir, and canine companions are welcome there as well. A leisurely stroll along the maroon walk from the main house to the reservoir and back will take you and your dog half an hour, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery and enjoy a picnic lunch together.

Duration of a 3.5 Km Walk
Effort Level: Low
The Front Door, as the Point of Origin
Hilly, rocky, sandy, or grassy terrain
Parking is free, however entering the estate will set you back five pounds. The address is: Ticknall, Derby, Derbyshire, DE73 7JF.

COTON WALK

There are at least eight distinct forests that you’ll pass through or be next to on this looping hike, several of them relatively new additions to The National Forest. Trees here are flourishing, making the area a popular destination for hikers and tourists with families who want to spend the day in nature.

You and your dog will enjoy this leisurely stroll through the woods because there will be plenty of opportunity for your dog to run off-lead and investigate potential new scents, such as birds and wildflowers. The Bubble Inn is a great place to stop after a stroll because it welcomes dogs and has a wide variety of delicious dishes. In addition, there is the Black Horse, a tavern that is typical of a country inn.

Total Distance: 9.6km
Challengingness: Middle of the Road
Coton Wood parking lot is the starting point.
Variable topography include forests and open fields.
Parking is free?
Coton in the Elms, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 8HB.

ALLESTREE PARK

Allestree Park in Derbyshire is the perfect place to take your dog for a stroll in the countryside, thanks to its many acres of beautiful parkland, delightful woods, and calm lake. You and your dog will be able to explore a stunning natural area, complete with a few challenging hills. When you stroll close to the golf course, you can avoid numerous steep inclines and declines.

Several paved paths wind their way around the park, making it convenient for strollers and other strolling companions.

The cafe is usually open late, so you can grab a bite to eat without having to search far and wide for a place to eat. There are three distinct parking lots, all of which are free of charge, so you can always find a spot. We recommend The Red Cow in nearby Allestree if you’re in the mood for a friendly neighborhood pub that welcomes families and dog walkers alike.

Distance of Walks varies
Challengingness: Middle of the Road
Coton Wood parking lot is the starting point.
Hilly or parklike or wooded ground
Parking is free?
Postal Code: DE22 2EU Address: Allestree Park, Duffield Road, Derby

PROXIMITY TO THE WATER: OUTINGS IN FOCUS

UPPER DERWENT VALLEY

This hike in Derbyshire’s Upper Derwent Valley is sometimes referred to as the county’s “lake district” because of the abundance of scenic lakes and wooded areas where your dog may run around and cool down.

Any history buff will recognize the majestic Derwent Dam as the site where the Dambusters trained. The scenery of the nearby hills and woodland is stunning, as well.

Remember to stop and pay your respects to Tip, the devoted sheepdog who stayed with her owner’s body for an incredible 15 weeks until he was recovered, when you walk your own dog. Tip’s resilience and bravery earned her praise after she amazingly made it through the ordeal. On your stroll, you’ll pass past a wayside shrine honoring the devoted pal.

Following a circuit of the reservoir and a stroll through some pine forest, you’ll eventually return to your starting point. The visitor center where the walk begins and ends provides facilities for relieving oneself and refueling the body. There are two additional parking lots close by that might potentially serve as starting points for the hike.

Total Distance: 15.5 miles
Challengingness: Middle of the Road
The Fairholmes Visitor Center is the starting point.
Wooded, hilly, and dotted with stone walkways, the landscape is everything but flat.
No, there is no free parking.
Postal Code and Address: S33 0AQ Fairholmes, Bamford, Hope Valley

CARSINGTON RESERVOIR

The serene waters of Carsington Reser was the inspiration for this walking route. The Miners Arms, an independently owned and operated pub, is the starting and ending point of this hike and is a great place for families, walkers, and dogs that are well behaved. They also serve delicious home-cooked meals that are ideal for refueling after such a long but rewarding hike.

The land around the reservoir is protected as a wildlife sanctuary, and it has been densely planted to create a variety of ecosystems that your dog will love to investigate.

Rental binoculars are available at the visitor center, and there are several bird hides along the trail that provide excellent vantage points for viewing the abundant flora and fauna of this beautiful area.

Distance Walked: 13.3 Kilometers
Challengingness: Middle of the Road
The Miners’ Arms is where we’ll begin.
Level ground, trails, fields, and forests.
You can park for free in the village.
You may find us at: The Miners Arms, Main Road, Carsington, Derbyshire, DE4 4DE

CHESTERFIELD CANAL

One of the most beautiful dog walks in Derbyshire is along this path, which follows the lake. This nicely renovated canal will lead you past a number of ponds and pools. Bring a towel if your dog enjoys being paddled.

This route takes you through a rural setting while still being conveniently close to civilization, so you can easily find a place to rest and refuel along the way if you tire of walking alongside the canal. Simply take a stroll into Chesterfield and you’ll find a number of establishments, like The Rectory and Welbeck Inn, that welcome canine companions.

Distance of a Walk: 12.80 Kilometers
Challengingness: Middle of the Road
Tapton Lock’s Information Center is the Jumping Off Point
Level ground, walkways, and open fields.
Parking is free?
Postal Code and Address: Lockoford Lane, Chesterfield, S41 7JB

HILL WALKS

KINDER SCOUT

This hike is strenuous, but it’s well worth it for the breathtaking vistas and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve conquered the East Midlands’ highest peak. This moorland plateau is home to a number of stunning natural attractions, including the mighty Kinder Downfall, which may be discovered on foot. Spray from the falls is blasted backwards in strong winds, creating a geyser-like phenomenon that may be seen from a great distance.

Make sure you and your dog are ready for the challenge of the long trek and steep ascent, and that you have everything you’ll need. You may do a shorter, easier hike below the plateau and still enjoy spectacular views of the hills in the area if that’s more your speed.

One of the many possible hikes is a loop that begins and ends in Edale and follows the Jacob’s Ladder path across the plateau and down to the waterfall or up to adjacent Mam Tor. Beginning in Edale also allows you to see the local pub, The Old Nag’s Head. The Pennine Way begins in this cozy bar, which dates back to the 16th century. There are two cute cottages available for rent, and the bar itself is charming for a restful night’s sleep.

Length of Walk: 11 Kilometers
Complexity: Strenuous
Location: The Old Nag’s Head Topography: Moor, Hills, Uneven
Parking is free?
Grindsbrook Booth, S33 7ZD Edale, Derbyshire

BUXTON

Buxton is a beautiful spa town well worth a visit even if you aren’t thinking of taking your dog for a walk, thanks to the mineral water that was discovered there. Thankfully, the town serves as a jumping off point for a number of scenic hikes into the surrounding Peak District. It has excellent connections to other public footpaths, so you can pick and choose routes that are best suited to your abilities.

As the walk commences at the train station, it is possible to take part in it even if you do not have access to a car. While you take in the stunning scenery, your dog can run free in the open countryside. There is a victorian tower called Solomon’s Tower on a Bronze Age barrow that can be visited along the way. Once you reach the peak, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the countryside.

Starting and ending your hike in picturesque Buxton gives you easy access to the town’s many amenities. You can take your dog with you to a variety of restaurants and bars following your walk. Pubs including the Old Sun Inn, Old Cheshire Cheese, and the 19th Hole welcome dogs. The town’s Caffe Nero even welcomes well-behaved dogs on its patio.

The distance of a walk is 12.1 kilometers.
Challengingness: Middle of the Road
The Buxton Train Station is the Starting Point.
Topography: trails, roads, fields, and hills
No, there is no free parking.
Buxton, Station Road, SK17 6AQ

SHINING TOR

Located in both Derbyshire and Cheshire, Shining Tor is a landmark worth visiting. The ruins of the temporary country home Errwood Hall serve as the starting point for a short, circular hike.

Some of our favorite dog hikes in Cheshire include crossing Cats Tor and ascending Pym Chair. If you’re up for a challenge and some serious elevation gain, this is a great route to take. A walk around the reservoir is an option if the weather isn’t favorable, or if you simply prefer a stroll along the water’s edge with views of the hills and valleys.

Stretch your legs and take in breathtaking views of the Cheshire plain and the Clwydian Range in Wales by climbing the Tor. It’s easy to see why this location is so highly suggested by walkers (both human and canine): the rough environment is truly breathtaking.

Distance of 6 Kilometers
Challengingness: Middle of the Road
Parking lot at Errwood Hall is the starting point.
Hilly and flat landscapes
Parking is free?
In Buxton, at Errwood Hall, postcode SK17 6GJ.