Lowther Castle and Askham Village Walk
Cumbria
This gentle walk links the romantic ruins of Lowther Castle with the sandstone cottages of Askham village, following estate tracks, bridleways and the wooded banks of the River Lowther. Red squirrels and roe deer are often seen in the woodland, and the open parkland gives long views to the eastern Lakeland fells. The whole route is dog friendly, short enough for puppies and older dogs, with a sociable finish at one of the village pubs.
Park at Lowther Castle's visitor car park (charge applies). The estate's own herd of cattle and flocks of sheep roam freely through the parkland, and Highland cattle are often close to the trail, so dogs must be on a lead at all times across the estate and through the farm fields above Askham. The path is level grass, farm track and quiet lane with only a short rise over the shoulder by Askham Hall. Water is available at the river and village tap, and dog friendly pubs in Askham (The Queen's Head, The Punchbowl) welcome well-behaved dogs at the end.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 6.0 km (3.7 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 2 hr
- Walk Type
- Historic, Woodland, River
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- None
- Livestock Risk
- High
- Facilities
- Cafe, toilets and gardens at Lowther Castle; dog friendly pubs and village shop in Askham.
- Parking
- Lowther Castle visitor car park, pay and display, around £2 per day.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lowther Castle and Askham Village Walk dog friendly?
Yes, the whole route is dog friendly and earns a strong 8.5 out of 10 on Wildpack. Dogs are welcome throughout the estate parkland, bridleways and woodland, and the walk finishes in Askham village where both The Queen's Head and The Punchbowl welcome well-behaved dogs inside.
Can dogs be off lead at Lowther Castle and Askham Village Walk?
Dogs need to be kept on a lead for the majority of this walk. The estate's own cattle and sheep roam freely through the parkland — including Highland cattle that often come close to the trail — and lead rules apply across the estate and through the farm fields above Askham.
What should I know before visiting Lowther Castle and Askham Village Walk with my dog?
The route is level and gentle, making it a good choice for puppies, older dogs or those who aren't up for a strenuous day out. There's a short rise near Askham Hall, but otherwise it's a mix of grass paths, farm track and quiet lane. Parking is available at Lowther Castle's pay and display car park for around £2, and fresh water can be found at the river along the way and a village tap in Askham.
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