The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Telford and Wrekin

Telford and Wrekin offers a great selection of routes for you and your dog. You'll find 23 dog-friendly hiking trails, with options ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures.

Yes, there are plenty of easy dog-friendly walks. For a gentle, scenic option, consider the Smallwood Lodge Tea Room – Bod Café Bar loop from Newport, which is just over 7 km and relatively flat. Many of the local nature reserves also offer accessible paths.

Yes, The Wrekin is a popular spot for dog walkers, offering spectacular views. While there isn't a specific 'dog-friendly' route up, many trails are suitable. Be aware that some paths can be steep and rocky, and livestock may be present in surrounding fields, so keep your dog on a lead where necessary. The The Wrekin summit is a rewarding destination.

Absolutely! Many of the dog-friendly routes are circular, making them convenient for day trips. An example is the Aqualate Mere loop from Newport, a moderate 15 km trail that brings you back to your starting point.

Telford and Wrekin boasts diverse natural beauty. You can explore ancient woodlands, like those around The Ercall, which are famous for their bluebell displays in spring (check out The Ercall Bluebell Woods). Other trails follow scenic river paths, such as those along the River Severn in the Ironbridge Gorge, and offer views of prominent hills like The Wrekin.

Yes, the Ironbridge Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site offers accessible hiking routes along the River Severn that are suitable for dogs. These paths allow you to combine natural beauty with the area's rich industrial heritage, passing landmarks like The Iron Bridge itself.

While popular spots like The Wrekin can get busy, exploring some of the local nature reserves or lesser-known trails can offer a quieter experience. Areas like Apley Woods, Dothill, and Shawbirch provide extensive networks of paths that are often less frequented than the main tourist attractions. You can find more information on local nature reserves at telford.gov.uk.

Many traditional country pubs and cafes in the Telford and Wrekin area are dog-friendly, especially those located near popular walking routes. It's always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand, but you'll often find places welcoming well-behaved dogs, particularly in outdoor seating areas.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in Telford and Wrekin, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the panoramic views atop The Wrekin to the peaceful woodlands and riverside paths, as well as the well-maintained network of trails that make exploring with a dog enjoyable.

For dogs who enjoy woodland exploration, the Ercall Woods and Quarries – The Ercall Bluebell Woods loop from Wellington is an excellent choice. This easy 5.3 km route takes you through ancient woodlands, offering plenty of scents and sights for your canine companion. Another great option is the Fallow Deer in Short Woods – Ercall Woods and Quarries loop from Wellington.

In spring, be mindful of ground-nesting birds and keep dogs on leads in sensitive areas, especially in bluebell woods. Summer hikes are best done in the cooler parts of the day, with plenty of water for both you and your dog. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, but be aware of fallen leaves covering uneven ground. Winter can bring muddy conditions, particularly on trails around The Wrekin, so appropriate footwear and dog towels are recommended.