The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Loweswater

There are 6 dog-friendly hiking trails around Loweswater featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of difficulties, from easy lakeside strolls to challenging fell ascents, ensuring there's something for every dog and owner.

Yes, for an easy and scenic walk, consider the Scale Force Waterfall – View of Crummock Water loop from Buttermere. This route is just under 3 km and features gentle elevation, perfect for a relaxed outing with your dog.

The terrain around Loweswater is diverse, ranging from tranquil lakeside paths around Loweswater Lake to mixed woodlands in Holme Wood, and more challenging, craggy ascents on fells like Mellbreak. You'll find a mix of rolling hills and steeper sections, offering varied experiences for you and your dog.

Yes, several routes incorporate waterfalls. The Scale Force Waterfall – Low Ling Crag, Crummock Water loop from Loweswater is a moderate, longer option that takes you past Scale Force, one of the Lake District's highest waterfalls. You can also find Holme Force, a beautiful, less-visited waterfall, within Holme Wood on the south side of Loweswater Lake.

Many of the dog-friendly routes in Loweswater are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Scale Force Waterfall – Great Borne Summit loop from Loweswater offers a challenging circular experience with stunning views.

Loweswater offers magnificent views of the lake itself, as well as neighbouring Crummock Water and Buttermere. Fells like Mellbreak provide panoramic vistas. You can also explore Holme Wood, a mixed woodland where you might spot deer and red squirrels. For specific highlights, consider visiting Hopegill Head for expansive views or the tranquil Buttermere Lake.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the less crowded trails compared to other Lake District spots, and the diverse landscapes that offer both gentle lakeside strolls and rewarding fell climbs for dogs and their owners.

Absolutely. For those seeking a more strenuous adventure, the High Stile Summit – Buttermere loop from Brackenthwaite is a difficult route covering over 23 km with significant elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Blake Fell Summit – Loweswater loop from Low Fell (summit), offering a long and rewarding day out.

While Loweswater is very dog-friendly, it's always important to keep your dog under close control, especially in areas with livestock. Be mindful of ground nesting birds during spring and summer. Some trails can be rocky or muddy, so ensure your dog is comfortable with varied terrain and consider paw protection for longer hikes.

While this guide focuses on the trails themselves, Loweswater and the surrounding Lake District area offer various dog-friendly pubs and accommodations. It's always best to check with individual establishments beforehand to confirm their pet policies.

Loweswater is beautiful year-round. Spring brings wildflowers, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer is popular but can be busy, so consider early mornings or late afternoons. Winter can be magical but requires appropriate gear and caution due to potentially icy or wet conditions on higher fells. Always check weather forecasts before heading out.