The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Borrowdale

Borrowdale offers a vast network of over 220 dog-friendly hiking trails. These range from easy strolls along the valley floor to challenging ascents up the fells, ensuring there's a suitable option for every dog and owner.

Yes, Borrowdale has many easy dog-friendly walks. You'll find around 80 routes classified as easy, perfect for a leisurely outing. These often follow the River Derwent or skirt the shores of Derwent Water, providing gentle terrain and beautiful scenery. An example is the short View of Bleaberry Fell – Trail to Walla Crag loop from Derwentwater, which offers lovely views without being too strenuous.

Borrowdale's dog-friendly trails traverse a diverse range of landscapes. You can expect to encounter ancient woodlands, including remnants of rare temperate rainforests, lush pastures, and the banks of the River Derwent. Higher routes will take you through dramatic glacial valleys flanked by imposing fells and rocky crags, offering panoramic views of the Lake District.

Many of the dog-friendly routes in Borrowdale are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps. These are ideal for exploring different facets of the valley's beauty. For instance, the View of Derwentwater – Bleaberry Fell loop from Derwentwater is a moderate circular option that provides excellent vistas.

Borrowdale's trails often lead past notable attractions. You might encounter the famous Bowder Stone, a massive balanced boulder, or the picturesque Ashness Bridge, one of the most photographed spots in the Lake District. Higher routes can offer views of prominent peaks like Catbells Summit or even distant glimpses of Scafell Pike summit. The valley also features cascading streams and waterfalls like Lodore Falls.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly hiking experience in Borrowdale, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning and varied scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the abundance of routes suitable for dogs of all energy levels. The opportunity to combine lakeside strolls with more challenging fell walks is also frequently highlighted.

Absolutely. For those seeking a more rigorous adventure, Borrowdale offers over 50 difficult dog-friendly routes. These often involve significant elevation gain and rugged terrain, leading to some of the area's highest fells. An example of a longer, more challenging route is the Ashness Bridge – River Greta loop from Derwentwater, which covers over 20 km.

When hiking with your dog in Borrowdale, be mindful of livestock, especially during lambing season, and keep your dog on a lead in areas with sheep. Some paths can be rocky or steep, so ensure your dog is fit enough for the chosen route. Always carry water for both yourself and your dog, and be prepared for changing weather conditions typical of the Lake District.

Borrowdale and the surrounding Lake District are generally very dog-friendly. Many pubs and cafes in the villages welcome well-behaved dogs, often providing water bowls. It's always a good idea to check with individual establishments beforehand. The area also has numerous open spaces where dogs can enjoy a run, provided they are under control.

Spring and autumn are often considered the best times for dog-friendly hiking in Borrowdale. The weather is generally milder, and the trails are less crowded than in peak summer. Spring brings vibrant new growth and lambs in the fields (requiring leads), while autumn offers spectacular foliage. Winter can be beautiful but requires appropriate gear and caution due to potentially icy or snowy conditions on higher ground.

While popular spots can get busy, Borrowdale's extensive network of trails means you can often find quieter routes. Exploring some of the less-trafficked paths through the ancient woodlands or venturing slightly off the main tourist hubs can lead to a more peaceful experience. Early mornings or late afternoons also tend to be less crowded.