Kielder Water Deadwater Fell Circuit
Northumberland
This dog friendly circuit climbs from Kielder Castle through the conifer plantation and up onto the open ridge of Deadwater Fell, England's quiet northern frontier with Scotland, then loops back through the forest by way of the Bloody Bush track. From the summit cairn at 571m the panorama on a clear day reaches from the Lake District to the Pentlands above Edinburgh and across to the North Sea coast.
Dogs love the variety, but this one needs a fit dog, the climb is sustained and parts of the upper fell are exposed and boggy. Keep them on a lead near the Kielder Castle car park and the working forestry roads, and watch for occasional sheep on the open ground above the trees. Off-lead is fine on the long forest sections away from cyclists. Tarred forest track, gravel path and short stretches of pathless heather and bog underfoot. Full facilities at Kielder Castle including cafe, toilets and bike hire, no water on the ridge so carry plenty.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 12.0 km (7.5 miles)
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Duration
- 4 hr
- Walk Type
- Peak, Forest
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- Cafe, toilets, shop and bike hire at Kielder Castle Visitor Centre at the start.
- Parking
- Pay-and-display Forestry England car park at Kielder Castle (large, around 100 spaces).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kielder Water Deadwater Fell Circuit dog friendly?
Yes, the Kielder Water Deadwater Fell Circuit is dog friendly, earning a 7 out of 10 on our rating. It's a genuinely enjoyable route for dogs thanks to the variety of terrain — forest tracks, open fell and heathery ridgeline — though it's best suited to fit, active dogs given the sustained climb to the 571m summit of Deadwater Fell.
Can dogs be off lead at Kielder Water Deadwater Fell Circuit?
Dogs can be let off lead on the long forest sections away from cyclists, which makes up a good portion of the route. Keep them on the lead near Kielder Castle car park and on the working forestry roads, and exercise caution on the open ground above the treeline where sheep can occasionally be encountered.
What should I know before visiting Kielder Water Deadwater Fell Circuit with my dog?
This is a demanding walk, so your dog needs to be reasonably fit — the climb is sustained and the upper fell is exposed and boggy in places, so sturdy paws are a must. There's no water available on the ridge, so carry plenty for both of you. The good news is that Kielder Castle at the start has a café, toilets and a shop, making it easy to stock up before you head out.
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