Hardwick Country Park Circular
County Durham
Hardwick Park is an 18th century landscape garden that has been lovingly restored by Durham County Council, and the circular walk that links the Serpentine Lake, the Grand Terrace, the Gothick ruin and the wooded Bono Retiro is one of the easiest dog friendly strolls in the county. It is flat, accessible and pretty year round, with bluebells in May, lily pads on the lake in summer and a golden canopy in the autumn.
The park operates a dogs-on-lead policy across the main circuit, with one designated off lead exercise area where dogs can stretch their legs. Close control is important near the ornamental water features, the folly ruins and the meadow sections where ground nesting birds raise young. Paths are tarmac and compacted gravel throughout, fully buggy and wheelchair friendly, and there is ample pay and display parking, a cafe in the visitor centre and clean toilets.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 3.0 km (1.9 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 1 hr
- Walk Type
- Park, Lake, Historic
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- None
- Facilities
- Tower Cafe, visitor centre, toilets, play area and designated dog exercise area.
- Parking
- Pay and display car park on site, £2 for two hours or £3 all day.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hardwick Country Park Circular dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome at Hardwick Country Park, and it's one of the more accessible dog friendly walks in County Durham. The paths are tarmac and compacted gravel throughout, making it an easy, flat circuit that suits dogs of all ages and sizes. There's also a café at the visitor centre and clean toilets on site, so it works well as a relaxed day out.
Can dogs be off lead at Hardwick Country Park Circular?
The main circuit operates a dogs-on-lead policy, but there is one designated off lead exercise area within the park where your dog can have a proper run around. Outside of this area, leads are required — particularly near the ornamental water features, the folly ruins and any meadow sections where ground nesting birds may be present.
What should I know before visiting Hardwick Country Park Circular with my dog?
It's worth coming prepared with a lead, as the park's on-lead policy applies across most of the route. The walk itself is very gentle — flat, scenic and lovely year round, with bluebells in spring, lily pads on the Serpentine Lake in summer and golden autumn colour in the woods. Parking is pay and display on site, costing £2 for two hours or £3 for a full day.
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