Glen Tanar Circular Walk
Aberdeenshire
Dog friendly and perfect for a half-day out, this waymarked circuit from the Braeloine Visitor Centre heads into the ancient Caledonian pinewoods of Glen Tanar, following the Water of Tanar past old drove roads, footbridges and open clearings before looping back through more open moorland stands. The forest is big, quiet and full of wildlife, with good path surfaces throughout and plenty of places to let a dog drink or swim on a hot day.
Dogs can be off the lead on the forest trails provided they are under close control, and the estate is well used to visiting dogs. Keep them closer on the livestock-grazed sections near the visitor centre and on the short road sections by the bridge of Tanar. The route is easy underfoot, family suitable, and pairs nicely with a visit to the Glen Tanar Charitable Trust visitor centre. Parking is at Braeloine with an honesty box contribution.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 8.0 km (5.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 2 hr
- Walk Type
- Forest, River
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- Visitor centre with information displays, toilets and picnic area at Braeloine; cafes and shops in Aboyne (10 minutes drive).
- Parking
- Honesty box car park at Braeloine Visitor Centre, capacity around 40; can fill on summer weekends.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Glen Tanar Circular Walk dog friendly?
Glen Tanar is a great choice for a dog-friendly day out, scoring 9 out of 10 on our rating. The waymarked circuit through the ancient Caledonian pinewoods is spacious and quiet, with good path surfaces, plenty of water for dogs to drink from along the Water of Tanar, and lots of room to roam. The estate is well used to visiting dogs, so you're in good company.
Can dogs be off lead at Glen Tanar Circular Walk?
Dogs are welcome off the lead on the forest trails, provided they are under close control. You'll want to keep them on the lead near the visitor centre where livestock graze, and on the short road sections by the Bridge of Tanar. As long as you're mindful of those areas, there's plenty of open woodland where your dog can run freely.
What should I know before visiting Glen Tanar Circular Walk with my dog?
The walk starts from the Braeloine Visitor Centre, where you'll find toilets, information displays and a picnic area — handy for a mid-walk break. Parking is at Braeloine on an honesty box basis, but it can fill up on summer weekends so it's worth arriving early if you're visiting in the warmer months. If you need food or supplies, Aboyne is around 10 minutes' drive away and has cafes and shops.
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