The Forest of Dean is one of the UK’s best destinations for dog friendly walking. Dense ancient woodland, winding rivers, open viewpoints and well marked trails make it ideal for exploring on four paws, whether you are after a gentle woodland loop or a longer, more adventurous hike.
Below you will find a carefully selected mix of dog friendly walks in the Forest of Dean, spread across the area and covering a range of distances and difficulties. All of these routes are well suited to dogs, with plenty of space, variety underfoot and rewarding scenery along the way.
Symonds Yat Rock and River Wye Loop
This classic Forest of Dean walk combines elevated viewpoints with peaceful riverside paths. Starting near Symonds Yat Rock, the route climbs steadily through woodland before opening up to sweeping views over the River Wye, one of the most dramatic natural sights in the area.
The loop continues down towards the river, following flatter paths alongside the water before circling back through quieter forest tracks. It is a varied walk that keeps dogs engaged throughout, although care is needed near cliff edges and on busier sections around the viewpoint.
- Distance: Approx. 4.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
Puzzlewood and Perrygrove Woodland Walk
This walk explores the atmospheric woodland surrounding Puzzlewood, an area famous for its moss covered rocks, twisted trees and ancient forest feel. The paths wind through dense woodland and feel wonderfully secluded, even at quieter times of day.
The terrain is uneven in places with tree roots and steps, so it is best suited to confident walkers. Dogs will enjoy the smells and shaded paths, though leads may be required near popular attractions and narrow sections.
- Distance: Approx. 3 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
Cannop Ponds Circular Walk
Cannop Ponds is one of the most accessible and relaxed walking areas in the Forest of Dean. The route loops around the ponds before branching out into surrounding woodland, offering a calm and scenic setting that works well for dogs of all ages.
The paths are generally wide and well maintained, making this a good option after heavy rain or for shorter outings. Wildlife is common around the water, so recall is important if letting dogs off lead.
- Distance: Approx. 2.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
Beechenhurst Lodge and Sculpture Trail Loop
This walk takes in sections of the famous Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail, combining art installations with mature woodland and gently rolling paths. Starting near Beechenhurst Lodge, the route feels peaceful and immersive, particularly away from peak times.
The paths are well signposted and mostly gravel or compacted earth, making it suitable year round. Dogs will enjoy the space and variety, although some sculptures attract curious visitors, so leads may be useful at busier points.
- Distance: Approx. 4 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
Soudley Ponds and Valley Walk
Tucked away in a quieter corner of the forest, Soudley Ponds offers a tranquil walking experience with streams, ponds and gently rising woodland paths. The area feels less busy than some of the headline spots and is ideal if you want something calmer.
The route follows a mix of flat waterside paths and short climbs through the valley sides. It suits dogs that enjoy water and shaded woodland, with good opportunities for relaxed off lead sections.
- Distance: Approx. 3.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Off lead potential: Lots
- Parking: Yes
Mallards Pike Lake and Woodland Loop
Mallards Pike is another excellent option for an easy but rewarding walk. The lake loop is flat and scenic, with additional woodland trails extending the walk if you want to add distance.
It works particularly well for dogs that like open space without steep climbs. The lake attracts birds, so it is worth keeping an eye on dogs near the water’s edge.
- Distance: Approx. 2 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
New Fancy View and Old Railway Paths
This walk combines one of the Forest of Dean’s best viewpoints with historic railway paths that cut through the woodland. After a steady climb to New Fancy View, the route levels out and follows broad, well surfaced tracks through quieter forest sections.
It is a good choice for longer walks without overly technical terrain. Dogs that enjoy trotting along open tracks will thrive here, though leads may be sensible near cyclists on shared paths.
- Distance: Approx. 5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
Nagshead Nature Reserve Trails
Nagshead Nature Reserve offers a network of peaceful woodland trails with a strong sense of seclusion. The paths weave through mature forest and feel distinctly wilder than some of the more popular sites.
Walking here is gentle and unhurried, making it well suited to dogs that prefer quieter surroundings. Wildlife is abundant, so good recall is important if you plan to let dogs off lead.
- Distance: Approx. 3 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
Parkend to Whitecroft Woodland Walk
Starting from the village of Parkend, this route heads out into surrounding woodland using old railway lines and forest tracks. It is a great way to explore the central Forest of Dean while avoiding steep climbs.
The walk can be adapted easily depending on how far you want to go, making it flexible for different energy levels. Dogs benefit from the wide paths and consistent footing, especially in wetter months.
- Distance: Approx. 4 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Off lead potential: Lots
- Parking: Yes
Advice for Walking Dogs in the Forest of Dean
- The Forest of Dean can be muddy underfoot, particularly after rain or in autumn and winter.
- Sturdy footwear for you and a towel for muddy paws are well worth packing.
- Ticks are common in woodland areas, so it is important to check dogs regularly and consider preventative treatments.
- Livestock and deer are also present, especially on quieter trails, so keeping dogs under control is essential.
- Some routes include steep drops, rocky steps or riverside paths.
- Take extra care near cliff edges and fast flowing water, and use leads where visibility or safety is limited.
Map of Dog Friendly Walks in the Forest of Dean
Explore these walks using our handy map below, simply click the pins to get more information and directions to the nearest car park.
This route links Parkend and Whitecroft using old railway lines and broad forest tracks, creating an easy-going walk through the heart of the Forest of Dean. The paths are wide and consistent, making it a reliable option in most conditions.
It’s a flexible route that can be shortened or extended easily, depending on energy levels. Dogs benefit from the space and predictable footing, especially in wetter months.
Distance: Approx. 4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Old railway lines, forest tracks
Off lead potential: Lots
Parking: Yes
Nagshead Nature Reserve is ideal if you prefer quieter, nature-led walking. The trails wind through mature woodland and feel distinctly calmer than some of the Forest of Dean’s headline locations.
Waymarked routes keep navigation simple, while the surrounding forest creates a peaceful backdrop. Wildlife is common, so dogs should be kept under close control.
Distance: Approx. 3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Woodland paths, gentle gradients
Off lead potential: Some
Parking: Yes
This walk blends one of the Forest of Dean’s best viewpoints with historic railway tracks that now serve as wide, accessible walking routes. After the climb to New Fancy View, the walk opens out with far-reaching views across the forest canopy.
The former railway paths make this a comfortable longer walk without technical terrain. It’s well suited to steady pacing and dogs that enjoy trotting along open tracks.
Distance: Approx. 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Forest tracks, old railway paths, short climbs
Off lead potential: Some
Parking: Yes
Mallards Pike is a dependable, low-effort walk that still delivers on scenery. The lakeside loop is flat and easy to follow, with additional woodland paths allowing you to extend the route if needed.
It works well for dogs of all ages and is particularly good when conditions elsewhere are muddy. Keep an eye on dogs near the water, especially around wildlife.
Distance: Approx. 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Lakeside paths, forest tracks
Off lead potential: Some
Parking: Yes
Soudley Ponds offers a quieter, more tucked-away walking experience with calm water, shaded woodland and gently rising valley sides. The ponds themselves make for a peaceful wander, while surrounding trails add a bit of variety and elevation.
This is a great choice if you want something away from the busier forest hotspots. Dogs that enjoy water and long sniffy stretches will feel right at home here.
Distance: Approx. 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Pond-side paths, woodland tracks, gentle climbs
Off lead potential: Lots
Parking: Yes
Starting from Beechenhurst Lodge, this walk takes in sections of the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail, blending woodland walking with striking art installations. The route feels peaceful once you move away from the main hub, with plenty of space to explore at your own pace.
Paths are well signposted and mostly firm underfoot, making this a solid year-round option. Dogs will enjoy the variety of scents and scenery, though leads may be needed around busier trail sections.
Distance: Approx. 4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Forest tracks, gravel paths, gentle gradients
Off lead potential: Some
Parking: Yes
Cannop Ponds is a relaxed and scenic option, ideal for an easy-going walk with plenty of water views and well maintained paths. The main loop around the ponds is flat and accessible, making it a popular choice for a gentle outing with dogs.
From the ponds, you can extend the walk into surrounding woodland if you want to add distance. Wildlife is common around the water, so recall is important if letting dogs off lead.
Distance: Approx. 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Wide gravel paths, woodland tracks
Off lead potential: Some
Parking: Yes
This walk explores one of the most atmospheric parts of the Forest of Dean, with Puzzlewood’s mossy rocks, twisted roots and ancient woodland feel creating a truly unique setting. The paths weave through dense forest and feel wonderfully immersive, especially away from peak visitor times.
The terrain is uneven in places with steps and exposed roots, so this is best treated as a slower, exploratory walk rather than a distance-focused hike. Dogs should be kept close throughout, particularly near narrow paths and popular sections.
Distance: Approx. 3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Uneven woodland paths, steps, exposed roots
Off lead potential: None
Parking: Yes
If you want big drama with minimal effort, Symonds Yat Rock is hard to beat. You get that classic Wye Valley look down over the river bends, with woodland all around and a proper “wow” factor the moment you reach the viewpoint.
It’s a strong option for dogs that are happy on lead around viewpoints and busier paths, and it’s a great pick when you want a shorter outing that still feels like a proper day out. Time it right and you may spot birds of prey riding the thermals above the valley.
Distance: 2.5 to 4 miles (choose your loop)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Terrain: Woodland paths, short climbs, viewpoint sections
Off lead potential: Some (keep close near cliffs and busy areas)
Parking: Yes
Explore even more dog friendly locations across the UK with our Wildpack Map, a specially curated map of dog friendly locations, including walks, beaches, campsites and more.
What’s Nearby
- Dog friendly walks in the Cotswolds – Loads of dog friendly walks in this iconic National Landscape
- Dog friendly walks in the Brecon Beacons – Stunning hiking routes in the South Wales National Park
- Dog friendly campsites in the Forest of Dean
- Dog friendly beaches in South Wales
- UK dog friendly road trips
Final Thoughts
From riverside paths to deep woodland and far reaching viewpoints, the Forest of Dean offers some of the most varied dog friendly walks in the UK. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or exploring your local area, there is no shortage of routes that both you and your dog will enjoy.
With a little preparation and awareness of local conditions, these walks provide the perfect excuse to slow down, explore and let your dog experience one of England’s most characterful landscapes.