The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Stone
4.6
(135)
1,217
hikers
16
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails around Stone, Staffordshire, are characterized by accessible terrain across waterways, meadows, and gentle hills. The region features routes along the Trent and Mersey Canal towpaths, offering views of the area's industrial heritage and surrounding fields. Stone Meadows, a local nature reserve, provides a mix of wet woodland and grassland habitats alongside the River Trent. The wider Staffordshire countryside connects Stone with a network of public footpaths through varied environments.
Best dog friendly hiking trails around Stone
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Downs Bank Brook – Stone Canal Lock and Bridge loop from Stone, a 7.5 miles (12.0 km) trail that takes 3 hours 9 minutes to complete. This moderate route features a gentle ascent and follows sections of the canal.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Bridge 100 (Turnover Bridge) – Stone Canal Lock and Bridge loop from Stone, a moderate 6.4 miles (10.3 km) path. This route offers a relatively flat experience along the canal, suitable for a relaxed outing.
- Local hikers also love the Bench by the Canal – Workhouse Bridge loop from Little Stoke, a 3.8 miles (6.0 km) trail leading through canal-side paths and open countryside, often completed in about 1 hour 31 minutes.
- Hiking around Stone is defined by canal towpaths, open meadows, and gentle hills, with routes often following the River Trent. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate hikes.
- The routes in Stone are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 100 reviews. More than 1200 hikers have used komoot to explore Stone's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.7
(6)
52
hikers
12.0km
03:10
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
47
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.0
(1)
43
hikers
6.04km
01:32
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(5)
21
hikers
11.3km
03:00
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
5.01km
01:18
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
September 2025 opening times - Closed Weds Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri - 10am-3pm Sat, Sun - 9:30am-5pm Sells - coffee, tea, pop, slushies, cakes, biscuits, crisps & icecreams.
0
0
Barlaston Boatyard is now a house with a rather splendid private mooring space, but early OS maps do record that this was a working boatyard in the past.
10
0
A very pretty complex of cottages overlooking the canal.
8
0
Hospitality originally means, 'love of strangers'. One of the local householders has placed this convenient and lovely bench outside their garden and gone to the expense of placing an etched metal invitation to rest for passersby to use. Hospitality indeed!
9
0
It's also highlighted as a dog friendly pub. Dogs are allowed in the bar!
12
0
This is one of a thousand beacons that were lit throughout the United Kingdom on 11/11/18. This was a commemoration inspired by a comment made on the 3 August 1914 by Britain’s Foreign Minister, Sir Edward Grey. He was looking out of his office window at dusk as gas lights were being lit along London’s Mall when he remarked to a friend ‘the lamps are going out all over Europe, we shall not see them lit again in our lifetime’. The Country was about to be plunged into darkness of the First World War and it would not be four long years before Britain and Europe would again experience the Light of Peace.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are there around Stone?
There are 16 dog-friendly hiking trails around Stone, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. These routes range from easy strolls to more moderate adventures.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in Stone?
The dog-friendly trails around Stone, Staffordshire, typically feature gentle hills, open meadows, and accessible canal towpaths along the Trent and Mersey Canal. You'll also find paths through wet woodland and grassland, offering diverse scenery for you and your dog.
Are there any easy dog-friendly walks suitable for beginners or older dogs?
Yes, there are 5 easy dog-friendly routes around Stone. A great option is the Bench by the Canal – Workhouse Bridge loop from Little Stoke, which is just over 6 km long and features minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed outing.
What are some popular dog-friendly circular walks in the Stone area?
Many of the dog-friendly routes around Stone are circular, allowing for convenient exploration. For a moderate challenge, consider the Downs Bank Brook – Stone Canal Lock and Bridge loop from Stone, which covers over 12 km and offers varied scenery.
Are there any viewpoints or natural features to see on dog-friendly trails near Stone?
Absolutely! Many trails offer scenic spots. You can visit the Downs Banks Millennium Viewpoint, which provides expansive views. Other natural highlights in the area include the Hem Heath Woods Nature Reserve and Bolton Gate Pool.
Can I find trails that follow waterways or canals with my dog?
Yes, the Trent and Mersey Canal is a prominent feature of the Stone area, offering many flat and accessible routes along its towpaths. The Bridge 100 (Turnover Bridge) – Stone Canal Lock and Bridge loop from Stone is a great example, providing a pleasant walk alongside the canal.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails around Stone?
The dog-friendly trails around Stone are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.63 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful canal-side walks, and the beautiful Staffordshire countryside that makes for enjoyable outings with their dogs.
Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest along the dog-friendly routes?
Yes, you can encounter several interesting landmarks. The Workhouse Bridge is featured on some routes, and the Stone Canal Mosaic and Playground offers a unique point of interest along the canal.
Are there any dog-friendly pubs or cafes near the hiking trails in Stone?
While specific establishments are not listed in the route details, Stone is a market town with a selection of pubs and cafes. Many establishments in dog-friendly regions like Staffordshire welcome well-behaved dogs, especially in outdoor seating areas. It's always best to check with individual venues beforehand.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with my dog in Stone?
The Staffordshire countryside around Stone offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is great for longer days, but remember to bring plenty of water for your dog. Winter walks can be charming, but be mindful of potentially muddy paths along the canal and meadows.
Are there any longer, more challenging dog-friendly hikes available?
For those looking for a longer, moderate challenge, the Workhouse Bridge – Downs Bank Brook loop from Stone is a good option. It spans over 11 km with a moderate elevation gain, providing a more extended adventure for you and your energetic dog.
Most popular routes around Stone
Most popular attractions around Stone
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
