The Most Dog Friendly Forest Walks in the UK

Katie Court
Authored by Katie Court
Posted: Thursday, November 21, 2024 - 14:14

Attention, dog owners! Dog Friendly Cottages has launched a fantastic new interactive map showcasing the top dog-friendly forests across the UK, making it easier than ever to find the ideal woodland adventure for you and your furry friend - just in time for those crisp autumn walks!

Our recommendations are tailored to what dog owners value most, ensuring that every forest visit is a memorable experience for both you and your pup.

Check out the map to find the best forests near you: https://www.dogfriendlycottages.co.uk/blog/dog-friendly-forests

Simply enter your postcode, and the map will highlight nearby woodlands with paw icons:

  • Green paws mark the highest-rated woods, offering top reviews, nearby dog-friendly cafés, and plenty of space for your dog to roam.

  • Yellow and red paws indicate other charming woods that may have fewer amenities or slightly lower ratings, perfect for nature lovers seeking a quieter option.

And if you're specifically looking for the best forests in the UK, we've got you covered...

 

The Top 8 Dog-Friendly Forests in the UK

Here are some of the top-rated woods, each promising a fantastic outing for you and your dog:

  1. Brodsworth Community Woodland - South Yorkshire

Brodsworth Community Woodland in South Yorkshire is a gem for dog walkers, offering a mix of open meadows, winding paths, and woodland areas where dogs can roam freely. This community-created space has a friendly, welcoming vibe, with plenty of trails that loop around ponds and through wildflower areas, giving you and your pup plenty to explore. 

The best part? There are 20 dog-friendly cafés just a short walk away, so you can grab a coffee or a snack nearby after your stroll. With a solid 4.6 rating from visitors, Brodsworth has earned its reputation as a go-to spot for local dog owners looking for an easy, scenic outing with plenty of charm.

 

  1. Rockingham Forest Park - Cambridgeshire

Rockingham Forest Park in Cambridgeshire is a delightful spot for dog walkers looking for both beauty and a bit of history. With over 200 hectares of diverse woodland, this forest is filled with towering ancient trees, open glades, and rich wildlife, making every visit feel like an adventure. 

Dogs love the freedom to explore the forest's winding trails, and the four nearby dog-friendly cafés mean you don't have to go far for a refreshing pit stop. Boasting a fantastic 4.8 rating from visitors, Rockingham Forest Park is well-loved for its spacious, scenic walks and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for you and your furry friend.

 

  1. Ecclesall Woods - South Yorkshire

Ecclesall Woods in South Yorkshire is a favorite among dog walkers, offering nearly 140 hectares of beautiful ancient woodland to explore. This popular woodland is known for its mix of broadleaf trees, including oak and beech, creating a lush, shaded canopy perfect for dogs to enjoy year-round. With five dog-friendly cafés nearby, it's easy to grab a treat or a warm drink after your walk. 

Rated 4.8 by hundreds of visitors, Ecclesall Woods is not just scenic but also steeped in history, with intriguing features like an old sawmill and millstone quarries adding character to your adventure. It's a wonderful place for both a peaceful stroll and a more adventurous romp through the trees.

 

  1. Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park - Perth and Kinross

Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park in Perth and Kinross is a fantastic spot for dog walkers, known for its panoramic views and diverse trails. Covering around 76 hectares, the park includes routes that lead to stunning viewpoints overlooking the River Tay, making it a perfect choice for walkers who enjoy a mix of scenery and a bit of elevation. Dogs will love the variety here, from forested paths to open hillside areas where they can explore freely. 

With four dog-friendly cafés nearby, it's easy to find a cozy spot to relax after your walk. Visitors rave about Kinnoull Hill, reflected in its high 4.8 rating from over a thousand reviews - it's a must-visit for a rewarding day out with your pup.

 

  1. Bacton Wood - Norfolk

  • Total Paws Score: 8/10

  • Average Rating: 4.7 from 155 ratings

  • Size: 111.87 hectares

  • Explore Bacton Wood

Bacton Wood in Norfolk is a hidden gem for dog walkers, offering 112 hectares of peaceful woodland with a wonderful mix of trails and natural beauty. Managed by Forestry England, the wood is filled with different tree species like oak, Scots pine, and beech, creating a diverse environment that's fun for dogs to explore. 

With six dog-friendly cafés nearby, you won't be short on options for a refreshment break after your walk. Bacton Wood's 4.7 rating shows it's a favourite among locals, who love the tranquil paths and wide open spaces perfect for both on- and off-lead walks. It's a quiet, scenic spot that's ideal for a relaxed day out with your dog.

 

  1. Hardcastle Crags - West Yorkshire

Hardcastle Crags in West Yorkshire is a stunning spot for dog walkers, combining rugged landscapes with tranquil woodland trails. Managed by the National Trust, this 108-hectare forest is crisscrossed with paths that lead to dramatic views, flowing streams, and even an old mill, giving you and your dog plenty to discover. 

With four dog-friendly cafés in the area, it's easy to find a cozy spot to unwind after exploring the trails. Visitors rate Hardcastle Crags highly at 4.7, praising its mix of scenic beauty and well-maintained routes. It's an ideal destination for those who enjoy a bit of history and adventure with their dog walk.

 

  1. Abbot's Wood - East Sussex

  • Total Paws Score: 8/10

  • Average Rating: 4.6 from 701 ratings

  • Size: 353.86 hectares

  • Explore Abbot's Wood

Abbot's Wood in East Sussex is a delightful destination for dog walkers, offering a blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities. Spanning over 350 hectares, this ancient woodland features well-maintained trails that meander through diverse habitats, including bluebell woods and a medieval lake, providing a sensory delight for both dogs and their owners. The forest is teeming with wildlife, with nearly thirty species of butterflies and the extraordinary song of the nightingale in early spring. 

After your walk, you can relax at one of the four dog-friendly cafés nearby, making it easy to enjoy a refreshment with your canine companion. With an average rating of 4.6 from 701 reviews, Abbot's Wood is a well-loved spot, promising a memorable day out for you and your dog. 

 

  1. Haigh Woodland Park - Greater Manchester

Haigh Woodland Park in Greater Manchester is a fantastic destination for dog walkers, offering a variety of trails through picturesque woodlands and open spaces. Spanning over 31 hectares, the park features well-maintained paths that wind through ancient woodlands, providing ample opportunities for dogs to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings. 

The park is also home to the Haigh Kitchen Courtyard, which houses several dog-friendly cafés, making it convenient to grab a refreshment after your walk. With an average rating of 4.6 from over 5,000 reviews, Haigh Woodland Park is a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a pleasant day out with their canine companions. 

Each of these woodlands offers a unique experience, from serene, ancient forests to vibrant parks with dog-friendly amenities just around the corner. Whether you're after a quiet escape or an adventurous day out, the UK has a range of dog-friendly forests perfect for every kind of walk. 

So grab a lead, pack some treats, and set off to explore one of these top-rated destinations with your furry friend - you're both sure to make unforgettable memories in the heart of nature!

 

How We Ranked the Forests

Our thorough analysis considered several essential factors to provide each woodland with an overall score out of 10. The four main criteria include:

  • Dog-friendly cafes nearby (within 0.5 miles)

  • User ratings – based on the quality of the dog-walking experience

  • Total number of reviews – ensuring feedback is trustworthy and balanced

  • Woodland size – the larger the space, the more room for your dog to roam

Each woodland was rated on these criteria, providing dog owners with a comprehensive guide to the best spots for their next outdoor adventure.

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