Nottinghamshire Wolds Villages Circular
Nottinghamshire
The Nottinghamshire Wolds are a series of low, rolling hills south of Nottingham that most people drive through without noticing, but this 13km circular linking Keyworth, Widmerpool and Wysall reveals quiet, handsome countryside with genuine character. The route follows green lanes, farm tracks and field-edge paths through arable and pastoral farmland, with gentle climbs to viewpoints looking north across the Trent Valley. The Wolds have an unhurried, traditional feel, with redbrick villages, church spires and hedgerow-lined lanes creating a landscape that has changed little in decades. With 286 metres of cumulative ascent spread across rolling gradients, the walking is easy-going but covers proper distance.
Off-lead potential on this dog friendly walk is limited as the route crosses working farmland where cattle, horses and sheep are encountered throughout, particularly in the final section approaching Wysall. Leads should be kept on through all livestock fields. The green lanes and field edges carry good scent from hedgerow, crop margin and damp earth, and the quiet character means you're unlikely to encounter many other walkers. The Plough Inn at Wysall provides a dog-friendly midpoint stop and is worth planning around. Paths can be muddy after wet weather, particularly the field crossings. Parking is available in Keyworth village. A walk for those who appreciate gentle, unshowy English countryside and don't mind keeping their dog on a lead.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 13.0 km (8.1 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 4 hr
- Walk Type
- Woodland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Pubs in Keyworth
- Parking
- Village parking in Keyworth
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nottinghamshire Wolds Villages Circular dog friendly?
This 13km circular walk through the Nottinghamshire Wolds is a decent option for dogs, earning a 7 out of 10 for dog friendliness. The quiet, unhurried character of the route means you're unlikely to meet many other walkers, and the hedgerow-lined green lanes and crop margins offer plenty of interesting scent for dogs to enjoy. The Plough Inn at Wysall is dog friendly, making it a worthwhile stop to build your day around.
Can dogs be off lead at Nottinghamshire Wolds Villages Circular?
Off-lead potential here is limited , the route crosses working farmland throughout, with cattle, horses and sheep encountered regularly, particularly in the final section near Wysall. Dogs should be kept on a lead through all livestock fields, so this one is best suited to dogs that are comfortable and well-behaved on the lead for extended stretches.
What should I know before visiting Nottinghamshire Wolds Villages Circular with my dog?
It's worth coming prepared for mud, especially on the field crossings after wet weather. Parking is available in Keyworth village, which is the starting point for the route. Plan your timing around the Plough Inn at Wysall if you'd like a dog-friendly rest stop along the way , it sits roughly at the midpoint of the walk.
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