Youlgreave and Bradford Dale Circular
Derbyshire
Bradford Dale is a quieter sibling of nearby Lathkill, a pretty limestone valley where a series of 19th-century fish ponds step the River Bradford down past old mill weirs. This short circular leaves Youlgreave on Coldwell End, drops into the dale and follows the river south before climbing back through stone-walled fields, making it a brilliantly dog friendly half-day walk with plenty of paddling for any dog that can handle a bit of cold water.
Dogs can be off lead on the quieter sections of the dale where the sight lines are open, but fields along the return route are often grazed by sheep and leads are essential there. The paths are mostly good, with a couple of squeeze stiles, a steep flight of metal steps and three small bridges. Youlgreave has two dog friendly pubs, toilets and the George Hotel, and parking is pay and display at the small Coldwell End or Moor Lane car parks.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 5.3 km (3.3 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 1 hr 40 min
- Walk Type
- River
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Two dog friendly pubs and public toilets in Youlgreave village.
- Parking
- Small pay and display car park at Coldwell End or Moor Lane; overflow roadside parking on Main Street.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Youlgreave and Bradford Dale Circular dog friendly?
Yes, this is a well-suited walk for dogs and earns a solid 7/10 on our dog friendly rating. The River Bradford offers great paddling opportunities along the valley floor, and Youlgreave village has two dog friendly pubs and public toilets, making it a good base before or after your walk.
Can dogs be off lead at Youlgreave and Bradford Dale Circular?
Dogs can enjoy some off-lead time on the quieter sections of Bradford Dale where the sight lines are open and wide. However, the fields on the return route are often grazed by sheep, so leads are essential there — keep that in mind when planning your visit.
What should I know before visiting Youlgreave and Bradford Dale Circular with my dog?
The paths are mostly good underfoot, but there are a couple of squeeze stiles, a steep flight of metal steps and three small bridges to navigate, so it's worth considering how your dog handles those. Parking is pay and display at the small Coldwell End or Moor Lane car parks, with overflow roadside parking available on Main Street if those are full.
What’s Nearby?
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