Nicky Nook and Grizedale Loop
Lancashire
Nicky Nook rises to just 215 metres above the Fylde plain near Scorton in Lancashire, but its position at the western edge of the Bowland fells gives the summit views out of all proportion to its height, with the Fylde coast, Blackpool Tower and Morecambe Bay all visible on clear days. This 9.7km circuit climbs through Grizedale Valley woodland before breaking onto the open fell top, with 210 metres of ascent providing a satisfying climb without being gruelling. The lower woodland is dense and atmospheric, with the Grizedale Brook running through a narrow valley, while the summit opens into windswept grass and heather with a proper fell-top feeling.
This dog friendly walk suits active dogs that enjoy both woodland and open hill. Off-lead potential is moderate in the woodland sections, but leads are essential on the farmland approaches and the open fell where livestock grazing is common throughout the year. The Grizedale Brook provides water access in the valley, and the woodland floor carries rich scent from leaf litter and damp earth. The summit is exposed and catches weather from the coast, so check conditions before heading up. The climb is steady rather than steep, making it accessible to reasonably fit dogs. Scorton village has the Priory café and the Barn which both welcome dogs. A surprisingly rewarding hill day from an unassuming Lancashire village.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 9.7 km (6.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 3 hr
- Walk Type
- Peak, Woodland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- High
- Facilities
- Car park, Cafe nearby
- Parking
- Scorton Picnic Site car park on Cleveley Bank Lane
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nicky Nook and Grizedale Loop dog friendly?
Nicky Nook and Grizedale Loop is a well-suited walk for dogs and earns a solid 8 out of 10 for dog friendliness on Wildpack Collective. The route offers a good mix of atmospheric woodland, a stream for a drink and a splash in the valley, and an open fell top with a genuine sense of adventure. Active dogs that enjoy variety in their walks will get a lot out of this one.
Can dogs be off lead at Nicky Nook and Grizedale Loop?
Off-lead potential is moderate on the woodland sections of the Grizedale Valley, where there's more room to roam freely. However, leads are essential on the farmland approaches and across the open fell, as livestock grazing is common throughout the year. It's worth keeping that in mind when planning the route.
What should I know before visiting Nicky Nook and Grizedale Loop with my dog?
The summit at Nicky Nook is exposed and catches weather rolling in from the coast, so it's worth checking conditions before you head out. The climb involves around 210 metres of ascent, which is steady rather than steep , manageable for reasonably fit dogs but something to bear in mind for older or less active ones. After the walk, both the Priory café and the Barn in nearby Scorton village welcome dogs, so you can round off the day nicely.
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