Our Top 5 Favourite Dog-Friendly Walks in the Lake District
- Olive
- Sep 17, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 18, 2025
The Lake District is one of the most beautiful places in the UK — and it’s even better when explored with your four-legged friend. Over the years, we’ve discovered some truly special walks that combine stunning scenery, dog-friendly stops, and plenty of opportunities for wagging tails and muddy paws.
Here are our top 5 favourite dog-friendly walks in the Lake District. Each one is a little different, but all guarantee gorgeous views, happy dogs, and maybe even a slice of cake or a pint for you along the way.
1. Elterwater Loop – Starting & Ending at Chesters by the River
Elterwater is a classic Lakeland walk with breathtaking views, meadows, and riverside paths. Starting and ending at Chesters by the River, you and your pup can enjoy a gentle loop walk with plenty of spots for paddling and sniffing.
Chesters itself is famously dog-friendly, so it’s the perfect place to refuel. The Coffee is brilliant and choice and quality of food is so good!
2. Haweswater Adventure – Small Water & Blea Water
For something a little wilder, head to the far eastern valley of Haweswater. From the car park at the very end of the valley, you can climb up to Small Water and, for the more adventurous, on to Blea Water — one of the deepest tarns in the Lake District.
This route is less crowded than many others, giving you and your dog plenty of space to roam and enjoy the solitude of the fells.
3. High Dam – A Short Stroll with Big Views
High Dam is a gentle, family-friendly walk that’s great for dogs of all ages and energy levels. The circuit around the tarn is accessible, scenic, and never fails to impress — especially when the reflections shimmer on a still day.
Once you’ve finished, take a short drive to The Swan at Newby Bridge, a cosy dog-friendly pub/hotel where you can enjoy a meal while your pup snoozes at your feet.
4. Rydal Water & the Coffin Trail – With a Sweet Stop
This walk combines history, beauty, and (importantly) cake. Start at Rydal Water and follow the famous Coffin Trail, which winds its way between Rydal and Grasmere. Halfway through, stop at Sarah Nelson’s Grasmere Gingerbread shop — a treat for you while your dog enjoys a little rest.
The mix of woodland, water, and open views makes this walk a favourite of ours, and it’s a brilliant choice for photography too. This is one of the first longer walks that Olive experienced and obviously she went for a swim!
5. Scout Scar – Views, Villages & a Cosy Pub Stop
Just outside Kendal, Scout Scar offers panoramic views across the Lyth Valley. Start at the car park, follow the ridge for wide-open skies, then loop back through the charming village of Brigsteer.
Quick stop at the Wheatsheaf Inn, a dog-friendly pub that’s perfect for a pint and a hearty meal while your dog rests their paws before climbing back up over the scar to the car park.
Danny and Lottie ( 2 x fox red labs below) had there Muddy Paws Experience up on the Scar and they both loved it!
✨ Final Thoughts
The Lake District is packed with incredible dog walks, but these five are our personal favourites. They combine everything we love — beautiful views, happy dogs, and welcoming dog-friendly stops along the way.
Whether you’re planning your next adventure or just looking for inspiration, we hope this guide helps you and your pup make the most of the Lakes.
👉 Looking to capture your dog on one of these walks? Our outdoor sessions are designed to celebrate your dog’s unique spirit in the landscapes they love. [Book a session today]
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