The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around East Staffordshire
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Dog friendly hiking trails around East Staffordshire traverse a varied landscape characterized by woodlands, river valleys, and areas of The National Forest. The region features gentle trails through ancient woodlands and pastoral landscapes, particularly around the historic Needwood Forest. Rivers such as the Trent and Dove offer picturesque waterside paths, while locations like Blithfield Reservoir provide additional walking opportunities. Elevations generally range up to 600-700 feet, offering diverse terrain for hikers.
Best dog friendly hiking trails around East Staffordshire
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Abbots Bromley Village Centre – Blithfield Reservoir Causeway loop from Abbots Bromley, a 8.2 miles (13.2 km) trail that takes 3 hours 30 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores the area around Blithfield Reservoir.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Blithfield Reservoir – Blithfield Reservoir Causeway loop from Abbots Bromley, a moderate 4.8 miles (7.8 km) path. This trail offers views of the reservoir and surrounding countryside.
- Local hikers also love the Blithfield Reservoir Causeway – Cobwebs Coffee Shop loop from Abbots Bromley, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail leading through the reservoir area, often completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Hiking around East Staffordshire is defined by its blend of woodlands, river paths, and reservoir trails, with options for various ability levels.
- The routes in East Staffordshire are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 3000 hikers have used komoot to explore East Staffordshire's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 24, 2026
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9.13km
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100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2.8
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13
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9.64km
02:27
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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10.1km
02:33
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around East Staffordshire
Dog-friendly hikes around Abbots Bromley
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Dog-friendly hikes around Barton-Under-Needwood
Dog-friendly hikes around Rolleston On Dove
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Dog-friendly hikes around Branston
Dog-friendly hikes around Outwoods
Staffordshire Way — Hike gritstone, woods, heath and scarps
Pedal through time – Britain’s landscapes & history by bike
Tips from the Community
As memorials to the countless war dead, such places – usually referred to as "war cemeteries" – remain very important to this day. "Now, Lord, you let your servant depart in peace, as you have said...", it says in the so-called "Hymn of Simeon" (Luke 2:29). However, the many people buried here did not depart in peace, but rather became victims of war and an inhumane tyranny. The most important and at the same time perpetual function of such a place is therefore to keep the memory of this suffering alive and thus to remind each generation anew (!) of the need to maintain lasting peace.
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The Uttoxeter Canal was built as an extension to the Caldon Canal. It was completed in 1811. The canal was short lived, closing in 1849 to enable the building of the Churnet Valley railway line. The railway closed in the early 1900's after the closure of the quarries. Today not much of the old canal is visible because it was filled in during the construction of the railway. There is talk of restoring the canal.
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Ferry Bridge is a pretty Victorian foot bridge over the River Trent. Built to replace a small ferry service that had operated at the same site since the 13th century. and gifted to the town by brewing magnate Michael Arthur Bass, later Lord Burton. The bridge is a "semi-suspension" bridge, of which this is the first and only one of its kind in Europe to be built to this design.
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The Ferry Bridge is a pedestrian bridge over the River Trent. It was opened in 1889 and replaced a small ferry service that had run since the 13th century. It's a semi-suspension bridge and was the only one of this design to be built in Europe.
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Blithfield reservoir was built in 1953 to supply drinking water to the surrounding area. The reservoir and surrounding woodland have been designated as a a SSSI due to the important bird life in the area. The causeway that crosses the reservoir gives good views across the water so do stop and have a look around.
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you cannot turn right and run along the shore here, as directed by the App
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A lovely view over the reservoir, but not the nicest road to ride, especially when there's a lot of traffic. 🌊
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in East Staffordshire?
East Staffordshire offers a wide selection of dog-friendly hiking trails, with over 45 routes specifically curated for you and your canine companion. These range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, ensuring there's something for every dog and owner.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly walks in East Staffordshire?
The terrain in East Staffordshire is quite varied, offering a mix of landscapes. You'll find gentle paths through ancient woodlands, such as those in the historic Needwood Forest and Jackson's Bank, as well as picturesque waterside walks along the River Trent and River Dove. Some areas, particularly towards the northern moorlands, offer slightly higher elevations and more rugged paths, hinting at the nearby Peak District.
Are there easy dog-friendly walks suitable for all abilities?
Yes, East Staffordshire has many easy dog-friendly walks perfect for a relaxed outing. For example, the Blithfield Reservoir Causeway – Cobwebs Coffee Shop loop from Abbots Bromley is an easy option. Branston Water Park also offers accessible lakeside paths ideal for a gentle stroll with your dog.
Can I find moderate dog-friendly hikes in the area?
Absolutely. If you're looking for something a bit more challenging than an easy stroll, there are plenty of moderate dog-friendly hikes. The Abbots Bromley Village Centre – Blithfield Reservoir Causeway loop from Abbots Bromley is a great example, offering a longer distance with some elevation changes. Many routes around Blithfield Reservoir also fall into the moderate category, providing a good workout for you and your dog.
What do other hikers enjoy most about dog-friendly trails in East Staffordshire?
The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in East Staffordshire, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil woodlands to scenic waterside paths, and the general accessibility of the routes. The opportunity to explore historic areas and enjoy nature with their dogs is frequently highlighted.
Are there any circular dog-friendly routes available?
Yes, many of the dog-friendly trails in East Staffordshire are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Blithfield Reservoir – Blithfield Reservoir Causeway loop from Abbots Bromley and the Drakelow Viaduct – WWII Pillbox – Stop Line No. 5 loop from Burton upon Trent. The historic Jackson's Bank also features a popular 2.5-mile circular walk.
What interesting landmarks or features can I see along dog-friendly trails?
East Staffordshire's dog-friendly trails often pass by interesting landmarks and natural features. You might encounter historical sites like the Croxden Abbey Ruins or the Uttoxeter Canal Remains. Many routes also feature scenic bridges, such as the Blithfield Reservoir Causeway and Ferry Bridge, as well as beautiful lakes like Branston Water Park – The Gravs.
Are there dog-friendly pubs or cafes near the hiking trails?
Yes, many of the picturesque villages in East Staffordshire, such as Abbots Bromley, Tutbury, and Barton under Needwood, are surrounded by walking routes and often host dog-friendly pubs and cafes. You might even find a coffee shop directly on a route, like the Cobwebs Coffee Shop mentioned in one of the Blithfield Reservoir loops.
When is the best time of year to go hiking with my dog in East Staffordshire?
East Staffordshire offers enjoyable dog walks year-round. Spring brings beautiful seasonal blooms, especially in areas like Jackson's Bank. Summer is perfect for waterside walks along the rivers and reservoirs. Autumn showcases stunning foliage in the woodlands, while winter offers crisp, quiet walks, though some paths might be muddy. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Are there any dog-friendly trails with good viewpoints?
While East Staffordshire is not known for dramatic mountain views, you can find lovely scenic viewpoints, especially along the reservoirs and rivers. For instance, the Sunset View at Barton Marina offers a picturesque spot. The northern parts of the region, bordering the Peak District, also provide more elevated perspectives over the rolling countryside.
What are some of the key natural areas to explore with my dog in East Staffordshire?
Key natural areas include The National Forest, which offers extensive woodlands and trails, particularly around Jackson's Bank and Needwood Forest. The River Trent and River Dove provide lovely waterside paths, and large bodies of water like Blithfield Reservoir and Branston Water Park are excellent for walks with your dog amidst diverse wildlife.
Most popular routes around East Staffordshire
Most popular attractions around East Staffordshire
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