The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Ogston Reservoir

There are over 160 dog-friendly hiking trails around Ogston Reservoir, offering a wide variety of options for you and your canine companion. These include 75 easy routes, 82 moderate routes, and 10 more challenging trails.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain, from serene waterside paths tracing the 200-acre reservoir to trails that wind through open farmland, tranquil woodlands like Carr Wood, and wildflower-rich meadows. Many routes also follow the course of the River Amber, offering varied landscapes and gentle ascents into rolling hills for panoramic views.

Yes, there are several easy, circular routes perfect for a relaxed stroll with your dog. A good option is the River Amber Stone Bridge – River Amber Footbridge loop from Brackenfield CP, which is about 5 km long and features minimal elevation gain.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3,300 ratings. Reviewers often praise the beautiful reservoir views, the peaceful woodlands, and the diverse paths that make it an excellent destination for walks with dogs.

Absolutely! While hiking, you might encounter remnants of the area's past, such as old stone walls and ruins from the submerged village of Woolley, which was flooded to create the reservoir. The area is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) known for its exceptional birdlife, though dogs should be kept on a lead in sensitive areas to protect wildlife.

For a more extended adventure, consider the Cliff Quarry – Memorial Garden loop from Wessington CP, which covers approximately 11 km with moderate elevation changes. Another great option is the Ogston Reservoir – All Saints Church, Ashover loop from Ogston Reservoir, offering a 10.4 km journey with varied scenery.

Ogston Reservoir is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with migrating birds passing through. Winter can be great for spotting wildfowl, but ensure you and your dog are prepared for potentially muddy conditions. Summer provides longer daylight hours, perfect for extended walks.

While specific dog-friendly establishments aren't listed in the route data, the region research indicates that routes like The Bluebell Pub – River Amber loop from Wessington CP start or pass by local amenities. It's always a good idea to check with individual establishments beforehand regarding their dog policies.

Ogston Reservoir is a significant birdwatching site and an SSSI. To protect the diverse birdlife and other wildlife, it's crucial to keep your dog under close control, especially near the water's edge and in wooded areas. Many paths may require dogs to be on a lead, particularly during nesting seasons or near livestock.

Many trails provide excellent views. Routes that include gentle ascents into the surrounding rolling hills, such as parts of the St. Michael's Church – River Amber Footbridge loop from Wessington CP, offer continuous perspectives of the water and panoramic vistas of the wider Derbyshire countryside.