Why dogs love the Lake District, and you will too!

There are so many reasons why the Lake District makes such a great place for you and your dog to stay.

First of all, there is the fabulous scenery, the amazing mountains to trek, the dog-friendly towns to visit, the endless variety of lakes to circumnavigate, the castles and stately homes to see and the fabulous dog-friendly steamers and boats to take.  There is so much to do – and everything is designed to provide you and your pet with a fabulous holiday come rain or shine.  So whether you want a peaceful and relaxing stay with a few gentle strolls, or you have a keen dog that fancies the challenge of fell walking up Catbells or Scarfell Peak – the Lake District has it all.

Keswick

Keswick is officially the most dog-friendly town in Britain – expect to see dogs of all shapes and sizes with water bowls on the streets, doggie menus in the pubs and a fabulous pet shop. If you want to combine a visit with a lovely walk park up in the town and take the 35-minute walk to  Lingholme Estate on the shores of Derwent Water. With stunning views and a gorgeous walled garden that was the original inspiration for Mr. McGregor’s garden in the Tale of Peter Rabbit.  Here you can enjoy a delicious lunch at the dog-friendly Lingholme Kitchen. Or for a longer walk take the 10 mile Derwentwater Circuit along the shoreline of Derwentwater.

 

Close to Keswick is  Catbells a short, steep climb with the most amazing views of mountains and lakes.  It’s a 5.6-mile walk to the wonderful viewpoint at the summit. You could climb Skiddaw -the Longside Edge route is probably the best route and Wainwright’s recommended route although the easiest route is the Jenkin Hill route. Or for a real challenge try Scarfell Pike, the highest mountain in England is located in the Lake District National Park in Cumbria. It will take two to three hours for the ascent and less for the descent – only recommended for dogs who are used to long walks!

 

Windemere Lake Cruises 

Dogs are welcome on Windemere Lake Cruises where you can enjoy a cruise around the Lake or hop on and off to visit the various dog-friendly attractions.  They can also travel with you on The Ullswater steamers with amazing piers and gardens to explore.  Nautical canines can also take a cruise on Coniston Water to see the scenery that inspired Arthur Ransome’s Swallows And Amazons. The Gondolas and Coniston launch both stops at Brantwood where dogs can visit the grounds and the dog-friendly cafe. Or buy a 7-day explorer ticket on a Keswick Launch exploring gorgeous areas around Derwentwater.

 

And you simply must try a trip on the Ravenglass & Erksdale Railway – the 40-minute journey takes you through fabulous forests and the fells of Erksdale Valley.  Four-legged friends receive treat bags for the journey.

 

PetsPyjamas have a wonderful selection of Lake District cottages in remote and rural places as well as hotels set on lakes with spas, paddle boarding and walks direct from the doorstep. So call our pet travel concierge team now on 0203 642 3162 to book your best dog-friendly holiday ever!