The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Long Marton

There are over 20 dog-friendly hiking trails around Long Marton, offering a variety of options for you and your four-legged companion. These include easy strolls, moderate loops, and more challenging ascents.

The terrain around Long Marton is quite diverse, ranging from gentle riverside paths and tranquil woodlands to rolling fells and higher elevations. You'll find a mix of well-trodden paths, grassy tracks, and some rocky sections, especially on routes leading to higher ground within the Eden Valley and bordering the North Pennines.

Yes, Long Marton offers several easy and short dog-friendly walks perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Dufton Ghyll Wood – Post Box Pantry loop from Long Marton is a moderate 8.4 km route that provides a pleasant experience through woodlands and gentle paths. The region also has routes like the Dufton Ghyll Wood – Dufton Ghyll loop from Dufton (mentioned in research, not in guide data as a specific route, but the area is good for families).

Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, the Great Dun Fell and Knock Fell Loop is a difficult 17 km hike with significant elevation gain, offering expansive views and varied terrain. Other challenging options in the broader area include routes to High Cup Nick or Cross Fell, which are suitable for experienced hikers and their well-conditioned dogs.

Yes, many of the dog-friendly trails around Long Marton are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Dufton Ghyll Wood – Post Box Pantry loop from Long Marton is a great example of a moderate circular route. The region is known for its accessible loops that cater to various fitness levels.

You and your dog can explore a wealth of natural beauty. Highlights include the dramatic U-shaped valley of High Cup Nick, the impressive Cauldron Snout Waterfall, and the scenic Ashgill Force. You might also encounter the Cross Fell Summit, the highest point in the Pennines, or the Mickle Fell Summit Cairn, offering stunning views.

Long Marton offers beautiful hiking year-round. In spring, be mindful of lambing season, especially in the North Pennines AONB, and keep dogs on a lead near livestock. Summer provides longer daylight hours but can be warm; ensure your dog has plenty of water. Autumn brings stunning foliage, while winter can offer crisp, clear walks, though higher routes may be challenging due to snow and ice. Always check weather conditions before heading out.

While specific establishments aren't listed in the guide data, the Long Marton area, being popular with hikers, generally has dog-friendly pubs and cafes in nearby villages like Dufton. It's always a good idea to call ahead to confirm their dog policy before visiting.

Yes, parking is generally available near popular trailheads in and around Long Marton and surrounding villages like Dufton. Many routes start from village centers or designated car parks, making access convenient for hikers with dogs. Specific parking details are often provided on individual route pages.

While no specific permits are generally required for hiking with dogs in the North Pennines AONB, it's crucial to follow the Countryside Code. This includes keeping your dog under close control, especially near livestock, and cleaning up after them. During lambing season (typically spring), dogs should be kept on a lead in fields with sheep.

The dog-friendly trails around Long Marton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable walks with their canine companions. Many appreciate the variety of routes suitable for different energy levels.

Opportunities for off-lead walking exist, particularly in open access areas away from livestock and roads. However, it's essential to keep your dog under close control and be prepared to put them on a lead when encountering other walkers, wildlife, or farm animals. Always respect local signage and the Countryside Code.