Other than the Lake District, the North West never seems to top any walking lists, does it? Most think of the North West as a collection of larger cities and towns, but there is a lot of open, green space to discover. Even the parks in this area are often vast — ideal for dog walkers. However, there are also lots of scenic routes to take through woodland, open countryside, riversides, and historic villages, too.
We’ve rounded up some of the best dog walks in the North West, covering Cheshire, Merseyside, Lancashire, and Greater Manchester. To help you pick your perfect walk, we’ve split them into different types: easy walks for older dogs and puppies, moderate countryside rambles, and more adventurous hikes for active breeds.
Easy & Scenic: For Older Dogs, Families & All-Weather Walks
1. Old Pale Trail, Delamere Forest, Cheshire
- Terrain: Woodland paths, short hill climb
- Distance: 1.9 miles
- Best for: Summer shade, autumn colours, wildlife spotting
Delamere Forest is beautiful year-round, but with summer on the horizon, you can escape busy city life for the sun-soaked countryside. The Old Pale Trail is a dog walker’s favourite, winding through peaceful woodland with wide, easy paths.
You’ll start with a short climb to the top of Old Pale Hill, where you’ll be rewarded with views stretching across seven counties. While this might be a challenge for some, the rest of the walk is mostly flat and accessible. Alternative routes like the Blakemere or Linmere Trails are even gentler, with plenty of rest stops and vibrant wildlife to spot.
2. Daisy Nook Park, Greater Manchester
- Terrain: Mostly flat, with optional gentle hills
- Distance: 1.6 miles
- Best for: Birdwatching, older dogs, gentle strolls
Bordering Oldham and Tameside, Daisy Nook is ideal if you're in the Manchester area and don’t want to travel far for a generous dose of fresh air. The main circular route follows the old canal, with a shorter option around the fishing pond for anyone with limited mobility.
It’s popular with bird-watchers, too — keep your eyes peeled for herons! Start or end your walk at the Daisy Nook Countryside Centre, and if you’re peckish afterwards, there’s a lovely Italian restaurant on site.
3. Speke Hall Grounds, Merseyside
- Terrain: Flat, well-maintained paths through gardens and woodland
- Distance: 2–3 miles depending on your route
- Best for: History buffs, springtime strolls, accessible routes
For something a bit different, Speke Hall offers a gentle walk with a cultural twist. These National Trust gardens near Liverpool are home to a stunning Tudor manor house surrounded by blooming meadows, cosy woodland, and picturesque riverside views of the Mersey.
Dogs are welcome on leads in most outdoor areas, and it’s a great spot for older pups or families wanting a shorter but beautiful walk. The riverside woodland trail is especially scenic in spring and early summer.
Moderate Countryside Walks: For Regular Walkers & Social Dogs
4. Alderley Edge Circular Walk, Cheshire
- Terrain: Mixed fields, lanes, and woodland with occasional muddy spots
- Distance: 5 miles
- Best for: Autumn walks, scenic variety, socialising with other dog walkers
Popular with walkers, hikers, and runners, the Alderley Edge Circular takes you through fields, country lanes, woods, and even a waterfall or two. It’s ideal if you want a longer walk without it being too strenuous, and the variety of scenery makes it a favourite for families.
The main route takes about four hours, so pack water and snacks — especially if your dog is the enthusiastic sort. Fancy a shorter route? Try the one-hour Wizard’s Wander, which is child-friendly and suitable for pushchairs.
5. Otterspool Promenade Walk, Merseyside
- Terrain: Coastal promenade and parkland
- Distance: 4.9 miles
- Best for: Sunny days, river views, dog-friendly fun zones
This riverside route connects Cressington Park, Fulwood Park, and Grassendale Park with sweeping views across the Mersey. It’s popular with everyone — walkers, joggers, cyclists, and of course, dogs.
There are plenty of distractions along the way too: a playground for kids, a skate park for teens, and even an adventure centre with mini golf, a petting farm, and a cafe. Great for a sunny weekend adventure where the whole family (including the dog) can burn off some energy.
6. Pendle Canal Circular, Lancashire
- Terrain: Canal towpath, nature reserve, country park
- Distance: 2.5–5 miles
- Best for: Wildlife spotting, autumn colours, moderately adventurous dogs
There are four interconnected circular routes to choose from in this area, ranging from 2.5 to 5 miles. Start from Colne Rugby Club and wind your way through Foulridge Wharf and Country Brook, taking in views across the Yorkshire Dales.
This walk is a real wildlife haven — kids can play spot-the-deer, and bird lovers will be in their element. It’s a peaceful stretch perfect for dogs that enjoy nature and a bit of space to roam, but it’s best to keep them on the lead when up close and personal with the landscape’s residents.
Adventurous Trails: For Active Dogs That Love Exploring
7. Rivington Pike via Terraced Gardens, Lancashire
- Terrain: Hills, rocky paths, steps, woodland
- Distance: 3–5 miles depending on route
- Best for: Panoramic views, active breeds, winter walks with good drainage
If your dog’s idea of a great walk is climbing hills and sniffing out every tree root, Rivington Pike is for you. With historical terraced gardens, woodland, and a steep but rewarding climb to the top, this is one of Lancashire’s most rewarding routes.
In colder months, the rocky terrain is less prone to becoming a mud bath, making it ideal for active winter walks. Just make sure both you and your dog are up to the steep sections, and keep an eye out for trail runners on busy weekends.
8. Castleshaw Roman Fort Trail, Greater Manchester
- Terrain: Countryside paths, hills, uneven ground
- Distance: Around 2.5 miles
- Best for: History lovers, summer walks, off-lead opportunities
Located near Saddleworth, the Castleshaw Roman Fort Trail mixes local history with countryside charm. Dogs will love the open fields and quieter lanes, while you can enjoy panoramic views and a slice of Roman Britain.
There’s a car park nearby, and the walk is best done on a sunny day to appreciate the views and reduce the risk of muddy patches. If you’re after a walk that’s as educational as it is scenic, this one’s a hidden gem.
9. Goyt Valley Reservoir Trail, Cheshire/Derbyshire Border
- Terrain: Reservoir edge, woodland, moorland
- Distance: Around 3 miles
- Best for: Quiet countryside, moody moorland, year-round walking
A lesser-known alternative to busy Peak District routes, Goyt Valley offers peaceful, scenic trails beside the Errwood and Fernilee Reservoirs. Walk through pine forests and open moorland with plenty of open space for confident, off-lead dogs.
The views here are stunning in all seasons — golden bracken in autumn, frosty mist in winter, and breezy summer air. It’s also quieter than other spots nearby, giving you and your dog some peaceful bonding time.
10. White Coppice & Anglezarke Reservoir Loop, Lancashire
- Terrain: Reservoir edge, hill climbs, fields
- Distance: Around 5 miles
- Best for: Long summer walks, active breeds, scenic variety
Starting at the charming hamlet of White Coppice, this loop takes in reservoirs, meadows, and quiet hillsides. It’s a varied, slightly challenging walk with some of the best views in the West Pennine Moors.
Perfect for energetic dogs that need a good workout — and equally enjoyable for walkers who want a bit of everything: views, water, and countryside charm.
Whether you’ve got an excitable spaniel or a sleepy senior, there’s a North West walk perfect for them — and you. Don’t overlook the beauty that’s right on your doorstep. From castle ruins to canal towpaths, there’s more than enough variety for you and your four-legged friend.
Just don’t forget the essentials: sturdy walking boots, a waterproof jacket, and your dog’s lead. And be sure to check park and trail rules for off-lead allowances. Happy exploring!