Clumber Park Lime Tree Avenue and Thoresby Border Circuit
South Yorkshire
Clumber Park was the country estate of the Dukes of Newcastle until the house was demolished in 1938, leaving behind 3,800 acres of parkland, woodland and the longest double lime tree avenue in Europe. This 9.5 km circuit along the Thoresby border takes in the lime avenue, heathland restoration areas and woodland trails through the quieter reaches of the estate. The 74 m of climbing is barely noticeable, and the terrain is consistently gentle on a mix of gravel paths, grass and soft woodland tracks. The National Trust manages the estate with a three-pawprint rating, meaning dogs are genuinely welcomed rather than merely tolerated, with designated off-lead areas actively encouraged.
Dogs get one of the most generous dog friendly walks in the East Midlands here. The livestock-free Thoresby border route allows genuine off-lead walking through heathland and woodland where dogs can range freely. The parkland carries rich scent from mature trees, grassland and the heathland restoration areas where heather and birch are recolonising former farmland. The woodland sections provide shade and deeper scent interest from leaf litter and undergrowth. The flat, accessible terrain suits dogs of all ages and fitness levels, and the sheer scale of the estate means the walk never feels crowded. Toilets, a cafe and a shop are available at the main visitor centre.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 9.5 km (5.9 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 3 hr
- Walk Type
- Moorland, Woodland, Park
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- Cafe, Toilets, Shop, Cycle hire
- Parking
- Multiple National Trust car parks - charged for non-members
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Clumber Park Lime Tree Avenue and Thoresby Border Circuit dog friendly?
Clumber Park is one of the more dog-welcoming National Trust estates you'll find, earning a dog-friendly rating of 8/10 and holding the Trust's three-pawprint rating , meaning dogs are genuinely welcomed rather than merely tolerated. The Thoresby border circuit covers 9.5 km of gentle, livestock-free parkland, heathland and woodland, making it a particularly good choice for a day out with your dog.
Can dogs be off lead at Clumber Park Lime Tree Avenue and Thoresby Border Circuit?
Yes , the Thoresby border route is livestock-free, which means dogs can enjoy genuine off-lead freedom through the heathland and woodland sections. The National Trust actively encourages use of designated off-lead areas across the estate, so you won't feel like you're bending any rules.
What should I know before visiting Clumber Park Lime Tree Avenue and Thoresby Border Circuit with my dog?
Parking is available at multiple National Trust car parks on the estate, though a charge applies if you're not a National Trust member. The terrain is consistently gentle , a mix of gravel paths, grass and soft woodland tracks with minimal elevation , which suits dogs of all ages and fitness levels. There's a café, toilets and a shop at the main visitor centre, so you're well catered for on longer visits.
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