Lathkill Dale Nature Reserve Walk
Derbyshire
Lathkill Dale is one of Derbyshire's finest limestone dales, a narrow valley where the River Lathkill runs over flower-rich grassland and through a steep, ash-wooded gorge. This dog friendly out-and-back from Over Haddon drops into the dale, follows the river past weirs and old lead mining workings, and climbs out again near Monyash, with the option to shorten to Conksbury Bridge and back.
Because Lathkill Dale is a National Nature Reserve with sensitive species, dogs must stay on lead throughout the dale itself and out of the river at all times. Owners can let them off again on the drier approach tracks outside the reserve if no cattle are around. The terrain is mostly level alongside the river with a stiff climb out at either end, and the lower section from Over Haddon is suitable for wheelchairs. Parking is pay and display at Over Haddon with toilets, and the Lathkil Hotel above the dale welcomes dogs.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 10.8 km (6.7 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 3 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- River, Woodland
- Route Type
- Out and Back
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Toilets at Over Haddon car park; the Lathkil Hotel in Over Haddon is dog friendly.
- Parking
- Pay and display car park at Over Haddon with toilets; roadside parking near the Monyash end on the B5055.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lathkill Dale Nature Reserve Walk dog friendly?
Lathkill Dale is a dog friendly walk, though it comes with some important restrictions that earn it a 6/10 rating. Dogs are welcome on the out-and-back route from Over Haddon, and the Lathkil Hotel in the village is also dog friendly, making it a good base before or after your walk.
Can dogs be off lead at Lathkill Dale Nature Reserve Walk?
Dogs must be kept on lead throughout the dale itself, and must be kept out of the river at all times — this is a National Nature Reserve with sensitive species, so the rules are strictly enforced. You can let dogs off on the drier approach tracks outside the reserve, as long as there's no cattle around.
What should I know before visiting Lathkill Dale Nature Reserve Walk with my dog?
The terrain follows the River Lathkill through a limestone gorge, passing weirs and old lead mining workings, with a stiff climb out at either end — so it's worth knowing your dog's fitness level before tackling the full route. There's a shorter option to Conksbury Bridge and back if you'd prefer a gentler outing, and the lower section from Over Haddon is suitable for wheelchairs. Parking is pay and display at Over Haddon, where you'll also find toilets.
What’s Nearby?
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