Walk

Snipe Dales Country Park Circular

Lincolnshire

Dog Friendly Rating:7/10A Lincolnshire Wolds valley walk through the undulating Snipe Dales, with wetland habitats and good birdwatching.

Snipe Dales Country Park occupies a series of steep-sided valleys in the Lincolnshire Wolds near Spilsby, a landscape of ash and hazel woodland, stream-cut gullies and rough grassland that provides more variation than the surrounding flat farmland might suggest. This 5.6km circuit follows paths through the woodland and up onto the higher ground, with streams crossing the route at several points and the valleys creating a surprisingly intimate, sheltered atmosphere. The park is a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its calcareous grassland and ancient woodland, and the spring wildflower display is excellent. With just 73 metres of climbing, the terrain is gentle throughout.

This is a pleasant dog friendly walk with moderate off-lead potential in the woodland sections, though leads are advisable where livestock may be present in the adjacent fields. The streams provide water access for paddling and drinking, and the woodland floor carries good scent from leaf litter and the damp valley bottom. The paths can be muddy after rain, particularly through the lower valley sections. Basic parking and toilet facilities are available at the country park. Spilsby is a short drive for post-walk refreshments. A walk that proves the Lincolnshire Wolds have hidden valleys worth seeking out, and a good option when the coast is too windy.

At a Glance

Distance: 5.6 km (3.5 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 1 hr 30 min
Walk Type: Woodland, Park
Route Type: Circular
Off Lead Potential: Moderate
Livestock Risk: Moderate
Facilities: None
Parking: Free car park at Snipe Dales Country Park

Elite Paws Luxury Dog Drying Coat

£28.99

View on Amazon

LumoLeaf Portable Dog Water Bottles

£24.29

View on Amazon

Mud Daddy 8L Portable Pet Washing Device

£49.99

View on Amazon

OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness

£38.99

View on Amazon

Hands Free Lead

£29.95

View on Amazon

Dog Treat Pouch

£9.99

View on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Snipe Dales Country Park Circular dog friendly?
Yes, Snipe Dales Country Park Circular is a decent option for dogs, earning a 7 out of 10 on our dog-friendly rating. The woodland sections, stream crossings and scent-rich valley floor make it an engaging walk, and the gentle terrain (just 73 metres of climbing over 5.6km) suits most dogs regardless of age or fitness.
Can dogs be off lead at Snipe Dales Country Park Circular?
There's moderate off-lead potential through the woodland sections, which make up a good portion of the route. That said, leads are advisable where the paths border adjacent fields, as livestock may be present in those areas.
What should I know before visiting Snipe Dales Country Park Circular with my dog?
The paths through the lower valley sections can get muddy after rain, so it's worth packing a towel or having a boot liner in the car. On the plus side, several streams cross the route, giving your dog chances to drink and paddle along the way. There's a free car park at the country park, and Spilsby is a short drive if you're after post-walk refreshments.