Few places in the UK capture the spirit of adventure quite like the Lake District. With its craggy peaks, mirror-still waters and endless miles of trails, it’s paradise for dogs and their owners alike. Whether you’re after an easy lakeside stroll or a challenging fell climb, these are some of the best dog-friendly walks and hikes in the Lake District to explore together.
1. Cat Bells (Near Keswick)
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.5 miles round trip (Longer routes available)
Cat Bells is one of the most iconic Lakeland walks, and perfect for active dogs who love a good climb (without any technical scrambles). The short, sharp ascent rewards you with panoramic views of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells.
Tip: Go early or late in the day to avoid crowds. Pop into The Dog & Gun in Keswick afterwards for a post-hike pint and water bowls at the ready.
2. Tarn Hows (Near Coniston)
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2 miles
This circular route is ideal for a relaxed wander with your dog. The path is well-maintained and accessible, with constant lake views framed by larch and pine trees. This is a good trail for those hiking with a puppy or younger dog that you’re building up.
Tip: Combine with a visit to Tom Gill Waterfall, a short detour that dogs adore.
3. Buttermere Circuit
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 4.5 miles
A gentle loop around Buttermere offers a perfect mix of woodland, meadows and lakeshore trails. It’s a stunning, easy-going walk for all fitness levels and dog breeds that might do better with a flatter trail.
Tip: Reward yourself with ice cream at Syke Farm Tea Room — they even serve a dog-friendly scoop.
4. Grasmere to Rydal Water
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6 miles
This picturesque trail links two famous lakes, with riverside stretches, woodland paths and the spectacular Rydal Cave to explore. It’s the perfect trail for a curious dog who loves to sniff.
Tip: Let your dog paddle in the shallows at White Moss — it’s a safe, slow-moving spot for a cool-down.
5. Helvellyn via Thirlmere
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 8 miles
For fit, confident dogs and experienced hikers, Helvellyn is a must-do. The Thirlmere route avoids the dangerous Striding Edge, which isn’t recommended to attempt with a dog, but still delivers sweeping summit views.
Tip: Carry plenty of water and snacks for both you and your dog — this is a long, exposed route with few streams higher up.
6. Friar’s Crag and Derwentwater Lakeshore
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2 miles
This short Keswick-based walk is ideal for relaxed days or older dogs. You’ll follow a peaceful lakeshore trail to a viewpoint overlooking Cat Bells and the Borrowdale valley. An ideal spot to practice paddleboarding with your dog after a long hike.
Tip: Extend the route around the Lakeshore Path for more off-lead opportunities.
7. Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3 miles
This riverside trail winds through meadows and woodland before finishing at Skelwith Force waterfall. Expect plenty of safe water access points for dogs to splash and swim.
Tip: Grab lunch at Chester’s by the River, one of the most dog-friendly cafés in the Lakes.
8. Loughrigg Fell (Ambleside)
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 4 miles
Loughrigg offers a perfect balance of effort and reward — gentle ascents, panoramic views and plenty of open space for off-lead exploring. It’s a favourite among local dog walkers for good reason.
Tip: On clear days, you’ll see Windermere, Grasmere and Rydal Water all from the summit.
9. Ennerdale Water Circuit
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.5 miles
One of the quieter lakes, Ennerdale feels remote and wild — ideal for dogs that love space and solitude. The circular path offers stunning views without the crowds.
Tip: There are few facilities here, so pack all the essentials before heading out.
10. Wansfell Pike (Ambleside)
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Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 4 miles
A short but steep climb from Ambleside brings you to Wansfell Pike’s summit, with breathtaking views across Windermere. Dogs enjoy the grassy slopes and open terrain.
Tip: Finish with a pint at The Golden Rule, one of Ambleside’s most dog-friendly pubs.
11. The Old Man of Coniston
Difficulty: Moderate-Hard
Distance: 7 miles
A classic Lake District adventure and a must-do for any experienced hiking dog, the Old Man of Coniston offers a perfect mix of challenge and reward. The route begins near the village of Coniston and steadily climbs to the summit, with plenty of natural water stops and wide-open spaces along the way.
Get a first hand account of how this hike is with a dog from our dedicated post – Review: Old Man of Coniston Hike with a Dog.
Best for: Experienced, active dogs who enjoy a challenge
Map of the Suggested Walks and Hikes in the Lake District
Looking to take on a few of these hikes? Our handy map shows you where you can find each of these dog friendly walks across the Lake District. Click the pins for more information and to get directions.
A classic Lake District climb and a rewarding day out with your dog. This circular route begins in Coniston and ascends steadily to the summit of the Old Man, offering panoramic views, grassy trails, and a cooling stop at Low Water tarn on the descent. Expect a moderate challenge, historic slate mine scenery, and plenty of fresh water sources for your dog along the way.
Distance: 7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead possibility: Some
Parking: Yes (pay and display)
A short but steep climb from Ambleside that rewards you with breathtaking views across Windermere and the surrounding fells. The route is well-marked and popular with local walkers, making it a great option for energetic dogs who love a good leg stretch. The mix of stone paths and grassy slopes offers plenty of variety underfoot, and there are several benches along the way for rest stops and photos.
Highlights: Panoramic summit views, close to Ambleside, classic Lakeland scenery.
Dog tips: Expect sheep on the upper slopes — use a lead when needed. Great post-walk pubs and cafés nearby.
Distance (Miles): 4
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes
One of the quietest and most remote parts of the Lake District, Ennerdale Water offers a peaceful circular trail around a stunning glacial lake. The route is perfect for dogs who enjoy open space and solitude, with wide paths, gentle woodland sections and plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the scenery. It’s less developed than other areas, giving it a truly wild feel.
Highlights: Tranquil atmosphere, forest sections, unspoiled scenery.
Dog tips: Few facilities nearby — bring everything you need, including water and waste bags.
Distance (Miles): 6.5
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking: Yes
A peaceful, low-level walk that follows the River Brathay through meadows and woodland between Elterwater village and Skelwith Bridge. It’s one of the most relaxing and dog-friendly routes in the Lake District, with multiple safe water access points for paddling and cooling off. The terrain is mostly flat, making it perfect for a casual half-day adventure.
Highlights: Riverside scenery, waterfalls, dog-friendly café at the finish.
Dog tips: Popular with other walkers — keep a lead handy in busier spots.
Distance (Miles): 3
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking: Yes
A gentle, scenic walk starting right from Keswick, this route follows the shoreline of Derwentwater to the viewpoint at Friar’s Crag. It’s ideal for relaxed days, older dogs, or those who prefer a shorter stroll with beautiful views. The wide, well-kept paths are mostly flat and shaded by trees, with plenty of grassy areas for off-lead time.
Highlights: Lakeside scenery, panoramic viewpoint, accessible path.
Dog tips: Great for a calm wander — plenty of spots to paddle and rest along the route.
Distance (Miles): 2
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes
One of the Lake District’s most iconic peaks, Helvellyn offers a challenging but unforgettable hike. The Thirlmere route provides a safer and steadier ascent than Striding Edge, making it more suitable for confident, fit dogs and experienced owners. Expect long open climbs, rocky sections, and incredible panoramic views from the summit.
Highlights: Summit views, quieter approach, well-defined mountain paths.
Dog tips: Carry extra water — streams are scarce higher up. Avoid in high heat or icy conditions.
Distance (Miles): 8
Difficulty: Hard
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes
A stunning circular route linking two of the Lake District’s most picturesque lakes. This trail offers a mix of riverside paths, wooded trails, and open meadows, with the impressive Rydal Cave as a highlight along the way. Ideal for energetic dogs who enjoy varied terrain and the occasional paddle.
Highlights: Rydal Cave, woodland paths, lake views, riverside access.
Dog tips: Expect other walkers and some livestock near Rydal — use a lead when needed.
Distance (Miles): 6
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes
A classic Lake District walk that loops around one of the region’s most scenic lakes. The route combines lakeside paths, wooded stretches and gentle farmland — perfect for a relaxed yet rewarding adventure with your dog. The entire circuit offers constant mountain views and safe access points for swimming.
Highlights: Varied terrain, stunning reflections, dog-friendly café nearby.
Dog tips: Plenty of water access but some grazing livestock — leads recommended in certain areas.
Distance (Miles): 4.5
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes
A beautiful and accessible circular walk surrounded by wooded hills and tranquil water, Tarn Hows is ideal for dogs of all ages and abilities. The well-maintained path offers gentle gradients and constant views, making it one of the most popular (and photogenic) dog-friendly walks in the Lake District.
Highlights: Level paths, scenic reflections, picnic spots and shaded areas.
Dog tips: Plenty of safe water access for paddling; keep leads handy near car parks and busier sections.
Distance (Miles): 2
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes
Loughrigg Fell is one of the most rewarding moderate hikes in the central Lakes — a mix of gentle ascents, open ridges and stunning views across Windermere, Grasmere and Rydal Water. The varied terrain makes it ideal for dogs who love to explore, with plenty of grassy areas and small tarns to cool off in along the way.
Highlights: Panoramic summit views, dog-friendly terrain, nearby cafés in Ambleside.
Dog tips: Expect some sheep on the lower slopes — keep leads handy where required.
Distance (Miles): 4
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking: Yes
A classic Lake District favourite, Cat Bells is a short but steep climb that rewards both you and your dog with panoramic views of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells. The well-marked path is mostly grassy and rocky underfoot, making it great for active dogs who enjoy open trails and the occasional scramble.
Highlights: Expansive views, photo-worthy summit, dog-friendly pubs in Keswick nearby.
Dog tips: Bring water — limited natural sources on the upper section.
Distance (Miles): 3.5
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking: Yes
Explore more dog friendly locations, including hikes, campsites and road trips on our Wildpack Map, our curated and ever growing map of locations to explore with your dog.
Hiking in the Lakes: Quick Tips for Dog Owners
Much like anywhere, when hiking in the Lake District it’s crucial to match the trail to yours and your dogs technical ability and also ensure you have the essential gear for your dog (and yourself).
- Leads: Keep dogs on leads around livestock and busy paths.
- Ticks: Check your dog after each walk, especially in long grass.
- Weather: Carry water and layers — the Lakes can change from sunshine to storm in minutes.
- Leave no trace: Bag it, bin it, and stick to marked paths.
- Transport: Many local buses and boats are dog-friendly, so you can plan car-free adventures.
Final Thoughts
The Lake District is a dream for adventurous dogs and their humans. From gentle lakeside loops to high-level ridges, every trail offers something different — a new scent, a new view, and a shared moment of freedom. Pack your boots, grab the lead, and go explore. The Lakes are waiting. If you’re looking to explore multiple hikes, amazing swimming spots and combine the trip with some camping, you might enjoy our article outlining the best dog-friendly campsites in the Lake District too!
Feeling really adventurous? The Lake District Loop road trip is a fantastic opportunity to travel with your dog, explore multiple amazing hikes and sample some of the best campsites the Lakes has to offer!
Feel like you’ve completed the Lake District? Well, that’s next to impossible, but if you’re looking for a new challenge, the stunning Peak District has some amazing dog friendly hikes too.