The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Muggleswick

There are over 15 dog-friendly hiking trails around Muggleswick, catering to various fitness levels. You'll find 5 easy routes, 11 moderate, and 1 difficult option, ensuring a suitable adventure for you and your canine companion.

Yes, Muggleswick offers several easy dog-friendly walks. A great option is the Smiddy Shaw and Hisehope loop from Waskerley, which provides gentle terrain and scenic views of the reservoirs. Another easy choice is the Smiddy Shaw Reservoir – Smiddy Shaw Reservoir loop from Waskerley, perfect for a shorter stroll.

The terrain around Muggleswick is diverse, featuring expansive moorlands like Muggleswick Common, rolling hills, and ancient woodlands within the Derwent Gorge and Muggleswick Woods National Nature Reserve. You'll encounter woodland paths, minor roads, open fields, and some routes with short, steep banks, offering varied experiences for you and your dog.

Yes, many of the dog-friendly routes around Muggleswick are circular. For example, the Hisehope Reservoir – Smiddy Shaw Reservoir loop from Hawkburn Head offers a moderate circular hike, while the Smiddy Shaw Reservoir – Hisehope Reservoir loop from Waskerley is another popular circular option.

Muggleswick's trails offer views of prominent reservoirs such as Derwent, Waskerley, Smiddy Shaw, and Hisehope. You might also encounter the dramatic Derwent Gorge, ancient sessile oak woodlands, and expansive moorlands. Notable landmarks include the historic Bolts Law Trig Point and the unique The Elephant Trees.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 250 reviews. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, the scenic reservoir views, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable walks with dogs.

When walking your dog in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it's important to keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock. During bird nesting season (typically March to July), it's advisable to keep dogs on a lead in moorland areas to protect ground-nesting birds. Always follow the Countryside Code.

While specific dog-friendly establishments aren't listed in the immediate Muggleswick area, the Waskerley Station – Nana B's Teas, Redhouse Farm loop from Waskerley suggests that places like Nana B's Teas might be accessible from some routes. It's always best to check directly with establishments beforehand.

The woodlands and gorge are home to diverse wildlife. You might spot red kites, buzzards, and various songbirds like spotted and pied flycatchers. The River Derwent and its tributaries are frequented by dippers, kingfishers, and goosanders. Elusive roe deer can also be found in the woods, so keeping your dog on a lead in certain areas is recommended to avoid disturbing wildlife.

While Muggleswick is primarily accessed by car, some routes, like those starting from Waskerley, might be more accessible via limited public transport options in the wider County Durham area. However, direct public transport links to many trailheads can be infrequent, so planning ahead is crucial.

For those interested in history, the ruins of Muggleswick Grange, a nationally important medieval monastic grange built in the mid-1200s, offer a glimpse into the region's past. While not directly on every dog-friendly route, it's a significant historical site within the broader Muggleswick area.