The North East of the country has no shortage of beautiful locations to take your pooch for a walk! Whether you're exploring the huge expanses of coastline or you're choosing to explore the Northern end of the Pennines, there's plenty to keep you and your dog occupied! Explore these selections and gain a new appreciation for the natural beauty around you.
Chesters Roman Fort Circular Walk in Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland
- 2.5 Miles
- 1.5 Hours
- Easy
- Begin your dog walk at Chesters Roman Fort; one of the best-preserved Roman cavalry forts in Britain. There are entry fees for non-members of English Heritage to explore the baths, steam room, officers’ quarters, and the museum of Roman finds.
- Follow the main path up to the Hadrian’s Wall Trail and turn left, heading west. You will be walking on the south side of the wall, which was built in AD 122 as a frontier of the Roman Empire. Enjoy the beautiful views of the North Tyne River and the surrounding countryside as you walk along this historic monument.
- After passing Milecastle 38, cross over the farm track at the bottom of the hill and switch to the north side of the wall. Follow the path through Crag Lough Woods, an area known for its biodiversity so keep a look out for birds, butterflies, and other wildlife along the way.
- As you descend the crag to walk through the wall at Sycamore Gap, you will come across a famous sycamore tree that has been featured in films such as Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
- Retrace your steps back to Chesters Roman Fort, passing by other Roman remains such as Chesters Bridge Abutment and Planetrees Roman Wall.
Hareshaw Linn Walk in Northumberland (a 3-mile walk to a spectacular waterfall)
- 3 Miles
- 2 Hours
- Moderate
- Recommended to keep dog on lead
- Begin your journey at the Northumberland National Park car park at Hareshaw Linn, in Bellingham. This area was once home to an ironworks in the mid-1800s.
- Follow the footpath up to the old dam on your left and continue to an open area that provides a view of a small waterfall.
- Look for signs to Hareshaw Linn and then follow these along the stream. You will cross six bridges and walk through ancient woodland so it should have plenty of smells to keep your dog in its element!
- Upon reaching the end of the trail, you'll find yourself at Hareshaw Linn, a 9-metre-high waterfall that plunges into a dark pool. This is a magical spot to enjoy the beauty of nature and take some photos.
- After you’re finished enjoying the waterfall, your dog walk needs to continue back the same way that you came in. Follow this route back to the starting point
Greenlee Lough Circular Walk in Northumberland
- 4 Miles
- 1.5 Hours
- Recommended to keep dog on lead
If you're looking for a moderate circular walk that showcases the natural beauty of wetlands, forests, and rivers, look no further than the Greenlee Lough Nature Reserve. This 6.1 km trail takes about 1 h 33 min to complete and offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.
- Leave the Greenlee Lough Permissive Car Park and follow the sign for Greenlee Nature Reserve.
- Walk along the boardwalk that leads you through wetlands and forests.
- At the junction, keep to the boardwalk and enjoy the views of the lough.
- At the end of the boardwalk, turn right and follow the path along the edge of the lough.
- Climb over the stile on your right and cross a field to reach a finger post.
- Turn left at the finger post and follow the path along Caw Burn.
- Cross a footbridge and continue until you reach a road.
- Turn left at the road and follow it back to the car park.
Additional Scenic Places To Take Your Dog for Walks in the North East
Druridge Bay Country Park in Northumberland
- 7 Mile Beach
- Sand Dunes
- Lake
Positioned along Northumberland's stunning coastline, between Amble and Cresswell, the park provides an array of landscapes and environments for you and your dog to explore.
Within the park, you'll find Ladyburn Lake, a large freshwater body, where you can observe waterfowl and other wildlife. You can also wander through the meadows, grassland, and woodland areas, where you might catch glimpses of butterflies, dragonflies, and wildflowers. Not to mention the three miles of pristine sandy beach and dunes that make up Druridge Bay itself, where you can relish in the views of the North Sea, feel the wind on your face, and give your dog plenty of space to run free in the sand.
Druridge Bay Country Park is a true haven for dogs, providing a place to enjoy nature and spend quality time with your furry friend.
Jesmond Dene Park in Newcastle
- Wooded Valley
- Waterfalls
If you are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city with your canine companion, look no further than Jesmond Dene. This park is located in the east end of Newcastle upon Tyne, and offers a narrow wooded valley that follows the river Ouseburn. This provides a peaceful haven for residents, visitors and wildlife alike.
The park features a mix of native and exotic trees, and is home to many animals, such as red squirrels, kingfishers, and rabbits. You can also find historical landmarks, such as an old mill, a waterfall, and a ruined chapel. The park has many paths and bridges that allow you to explore the different areas of the dene.
Having explored some of the main dog walks of the North East, please don't hesitate to explore our dog walking guides for other regions of the country. You'll be sure to gain an even greater appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounds us!