8 Best Winter Dog Walks in the UK

There’s nothing like wrapping up warm and enjoying winter scenic dog walks in the crisp fresh air with your canine companion. While this time of year feels pretty chilly, you can experience stunning views from frosty parks and walking trails to glistening snowy hills.

At PetsPyjamas, we have narrowed down the 8 best winter dog walks in the UK to explore in 2025. All within top locations such as the Yorkshire Dales, the Lake District, and the New Forest National Park. We also include some of our best dog-friendly hotels in the area, in case you wish to stay more than a day to see what else is on offer!

1. Aysgarth Falls, Yorkshire Dales

Home to beautiful dramatic scenery and its three glistening waterfalls, Aysgarth Falls in the Yorkshire Dales National Park only gets prettier in the winter! There’s a reason it was recently revealed as one of the best places in England for a dog walk. (Thanks for the head’s up PDSA!) While your dog will need to remain on their lead due to the animals in the area, there are lots of wonderful walking trails to choose from. All of which are surrounded by incredible views, so don’t forget to have a camera on hand to capture the moment.

Where to Stay: Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa, North Yorkshire

Set within 30,000 acres of grounds on the Bolton Abbey estate, surrounded by miles of footpaths that wind through the National Park, this charming dog-friendly hotel is the perfect base for a walking holiday. You’re guaranteed a luxurious stay at Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa, where your furry friend will feel truly welcome throughout your getaway.

2. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Scotland

Some of our favourite dog walks can be discovered in Scotland. Especially within the beautiful Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. One of the most vibrant and breathtaking spots to explore with your four-legged friend has to be the Doon Hill Walking Route. This circular walk is relatively easy if you are an experienced walker or hiker, you’ll make lots of unforgettable memories with your dog. Alternatively, Conic Hill is a short but sweet hike with magnificent views over Loch Lomond.

Where to Stay: 1 Drumlanrig, Stirling

Dog owners and their furry friends love the pet-friendly lodges and chalets on the beautiful banks of Loch Lomond. Drumlanrig has an elevated position for the best views of the Loch. Sleeping up to 6 people, this dog-friendly lodge is perfect for the whole family. The property even features a private jacuzzi hot tub on the patio!

Alternatively, you may prefer to choose to stay in Mellerstain, Lismore, or Stewart lodges all of which sit on the glistening banks of Loch Lomond and have similar fabulous features.

3. Ullswater Way Trail, Lake District

We couldn’t talk about the best winter dog walks without mentioning the stunning Ullswater, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Lake District. The second largest lake in the region, there is so much to see and do here. The National Trust’s Aira Force in particular is very popular, featuring a tall waterfall and plenty of interesting walks where you can spot different wildlife – like red squirrels!

The Ullswater Way Trail is a 20-mile walking route that takes you around the whole Ullswater Lake and is ideal for all ages. The terrain will vary during your journey, from fell and grassy paths to gravel tracks and steeper stone paths. A family-friendly challenge that will keep dog walkers and their adventurous canines exhilarated, this one is not to be missed.

Where to Stay: The Royal at Dockray, Cumbria

An idyllic, dog-friendly holiday destination for you and your four-legged friend, The Royal Dockray, Cumbria offers fabulous walks from right outside the hotel door. This impressive dog-friendly hotel is also super close to the picturesque Aira Force Waterfall and Lake Ullswater, so you can delight in beautiful scenery and walking delights that will set tails wagging.

Welcoming guests for over 500 years, The Royal at Dockray is filled with lakeside charm, featuring low ceilings, and antique furnishings combined with stunning views. The pawfect dog-friendly holiday can definitely be had here!

4. Cleeve Common, Cotswolds

With over 1,000 acres to explore, Cleeve Common is Gloucestershire’s largest common and home to the highest point in the Cotswolds. Therefore, you can expect amazing views of Cheltenham, the Malvern Hills, and the Vale of Evesham. You may even be able to see as far as the Black Mountains in Wales! It’s no surprise to anyone why Cleeve Common is so popular with dog walkers and their beloved canine companions. There is plenty of open space and a range of different paths to suit varying fitness capabilities. Cleeve Common isn’t just popular with dog walkers either – PDSA Pet Insurance highlighted this wonderful spot at the top of Cleeve Hill as one of their seven best winter dog walks!

Where to Stay: Ellenborough Park, Gloucestershire

A wonderous 15th-century manor house hotel within 90 acres of gorgeous land, Ellenborough Park is the ideal staycation for a holiday packed with dog walking adventures. During your break, you can enjoy the array of fantastic winter dog walks around the property, before dropping by Ellenborough Park’s opulent spa for a much-needed pampering session. Don’t worry about your pup being left out though, they can enjoy a pamper of their own over at the Paw Spa! Say goodbye to those muddy paws and hello to a very pampered pooch.

5. Lizard Point, Cornwall

Lizard Point is one of the best dog walks in Cornwall. Dogs are welcome all year-round here and can relish in the miles of countryside and coastal paths to roam. Local dog owners will recommend the spectacular coastal adventure across the Lizard Peninsula which will lead you to Kynance Cove. A fantastic outdoor excursion, you’ll experience striking views of the sea and fabulous natural landscapes that are unique to the ever-charming dog-friendly Cornwall.

Where to Stay: Mullion Cove Hotel & Spa, Cornwall

Shining on top of the high cliffs of Mullion Cove itself, the lovely Mullion Cove is in a world of its own. Encompassed by blue waters, National Trust land and marvellous beaches, this pretty hotel is a dream base for even winter dog-walks. After all, The Lizard Peninsula is a delight. You and your four-legged friend can spend your days wandering the South West Coast Path admiring the outstanding natural beauty, or simply sit back in Mullion Cove’s doggie lounge and enjoy the fabulous views without moving a muscle.

6. Devil’s Dyke, Brighton

Are you ready to take on the longest dry valley in the UK with your canine companion this winter? Although the name may sound daunting, Devil’s Dyke is a moderate circular walk that is 1 mile long. A popular dog-friendly trail that is spectacular especially during a foggy day, you will feel like you’re walking through the clouds. Whilst on your hike, you’ll love the views over the villages, towns and of course, the beautiful coastline. At the end of your trek, stop by the Devil’s Dyke dog-friendly pub for a refreshment.

Where to Stay: No. 124 by GuestHouse, Brighton

Sitting right on the seafront overlooking the sea, No.124 GuestHouse is a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel that warmly welcomes furry friends. This lovely dog-friendly hotel ticks all the boxes and is lovingly designed with Palace Pier inspired decor. There’s even a shiny disco ball hovering overhead as you enter! You’re sure to have a relaxing stay here with all the amenities you need. The soothing FieldTrip Spa is the ideal way to unwind after a day out exploring Brighton. Whilst you’re enjoying a pamper, your pup can snuggle up in their soft dog bed, generously provided by GuestHouse.You can also provide them with some complimentary tasty treats from the pantry!

7. Brecon Beacons – Elidir Trail, South Wales

Featuring tranquil riverside walks, endless countryside, and plenty of dog-friendly pubs, Brecon Beacons is an excellent dog-friendly escape. The Elidir Trail is one we recommend sniffing out. A scenic 2.5 mile walk through the heart of this stunning waterfall country, the Elidir trail starts in the Pontneddfechan village. It will then take you through the River Neath and past Dinas Rock. This popular magical trail leads to Sgwd Gwladus, a beautiful waterfall (also known as Lady Falls) that is encircled by ancient woodland. As the paths are relatively flat, this is a gentle walking trail that suits even small dogs.

Where to Stay: The Lake Country House Hotel & Spa, Powys

A fabulous place to stay for winter dog walks in Powys. This elegant country retreat enjoys an amazing rural setting with 50 acres of grounds for your furry friend to sniff around. The hotel’s resident Labrador, Molly, will happily show you around this stunning property where you’ll find a three-acre lake, manicured lawns, thick wonderous woodland, and rhododendron-lined pathways.

When you’re not discovering all the popular walks in the area, you will adore the country house’s exceptional comfort, calm atmosphere, and courteous service.

8. The New Forest National Park

Let’s finish on the absolute paradise for dogs – The New Forest National Park. There are so many adventures that can be had here with your four-legged friend. For example, you have the Blackwater Tall Trees Arboretum. A woodland trail that passes through an Arboretum housing a beautiful collection of different trees from other countries. Or you can enjoy peaceful strolls around the New Forest’s many ponds. We love relaxing by Janesmoor Pond with our furry friends.

The choices of pathways and trails in the New Forest are endless. Each comes with a new and exciting experience for your canine companion to sniff out. So, why not embark on a dog-friendly winter holiday to the New Forest and experience the great outdoors together?

Where to Stay: The Bell Inn, New Forest

Where better to stay than in the heart of the New Forest? The Bell Inn, Lyndhurst is right in the centre of the perfect playground for your dog. This pet-friendly hotel is both characterful and stylish, featuring quirky corners, oak panelling, and a wood beamed ceiling to create a cosy setting. As The Bell Inn is super dog-welcoming, they offer doggie guests a map of all the walking trails in the area to make life easier! Not forgetting, the special doggie menu that they can also choose from.

Winter Dog Walks with PetsPyjamas

Fantastic dog walks can be experienced even in the winter months. The frosty atmosphere just makes the surroundings even more beautiful and picturesque. Plus, there’s nothing like a long dog walk before returning to a cosy hotel or cottage to sit by the fireplace.

If you are looking to escape the January blues, why not book a winter holiday with your dogs today?