The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Ashby Woulds

There are 7 dog-friendly hiking trails around Ashby Woulds, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate excursions. These routes are perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes with your canine companion.

The terrain in Ashby Woulds generally features gentle gradients, making it suitable for a wide range of abilities. Many routes follow former railway lines, offering easily accessible and often flat, stone-surfaced paths. You'll encounter reforested woodlands, reclaimed industrial sites transformed into green spaces, and tranquil lakes.

Yes, Ashby Woulds offers several easy, circular routes. For a gentle stroll, consider the Tunnel Woods – Gresley Wood loop from Swadlincote, which is just over 3.5 km. Another great option is the Tunnel Woods – Gresley Wood loop from Overseal, offering a slightly longer but still easy 5.3 km path.

While most trails feature gentle gradients, you can find slightly longer and more moderate options. The Gresley Wood – Tunnel Woods loop from Swadlincote is a moderate 8.3 km hike that provides a good workout for you and your dog, with some varied terrain through woodlands.

Ashby Woulds is rich in both natural beauty and historical interest. You can explore the tranquil lakes and reforested areas that have transformed former industrial sites. A prominent historical attraction is the Moira Furnace and Canal, which is featured on several routes. The area also includes Deer Park at Calke Abbey and Staunton Harold Reservoir, offering picturesque settings for walks.

Yes, many popular routes in Ashby Woulds, such as sections of the Ashby Woulds Heritage Trail, follow former railway lines. These paths are generally flat and stone-surfaced, providing easy walking for both you and your dog. They offer a unique blend of natural scenery and a nod to the region's industrial past.

While specific dog-friendly pubs or cafes are not detailed in the route information, the Ashby Woulds area, being part of The National Forest, has various villages and towns nearby. It's advisable to check local listings for dog-friendly establishments in places like Overseal or Swadlincote before your visit.

Yes, many trailheads and popular walking areas in Ashby Woulds, such as Hicks Lodge Trail Centre, offer dedicated parking facilities. Routes that follow former railway lines or pass through country parks typically have accessible parking options, making it convenient to start your dog walk.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly hikes in Ashby Woulds, with an average score of 4.36 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, the well-maintained paths, and the peaceful atmosphere, making them ideal for walks with dogs. The variety of easy, circular routes is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the Ashby Woulds area features tranquil lakes that can be incorporated into your walks. For example, the Gresley Wood – Conkers Circuit Lake loop from Swadlincote includes a lake, offering a pleasant waterside experience. Additionally, the Staunton Harold Reservoir is a nearby point of interest with water access.

Hicks Lodge Trail Centre is an excellent destination for family-friendly dog walks. It offers trails for all experience levels, along with amenities like play parks and picnic areas. While not a specific route in this guide, it's a great base for exploring the surrounding dog-friendly paths and enjoying a day out with the family and your dog.