The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Launde Big Wood

There are 5 dedicated dog-friendly hiking trails available around Launde Big Wood, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. These routes are designed to help you and your canine companion explore the beautiful ancient woodlands and rolling hills of the area.

Yes, there is one easy dog walk available. The Prior's Coppice – Labrador on Forest Path loop from Brooke is a gentle 2.2 km route, perfect for a relaxed outing with your dog. Most other trails are moderate, offering a bit more challenge.

The trails primarily traverse ancient woodlands and open farmland, characterized by well-maintained public footpaths and woodland tracks. You'll encounter gentle, rolling hills and clear streams. The woodland floor can be soft, especially in spring when wildflowers like bluebells are abundant.

Yes, all the dog-friendly routes listed are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the View of Eyebrook Reservoir – Stoke Dry Wood loop from Beaumont Chase offers a scenic circular route of about 8.6 km.

Launde Big Wood is rich in natural beauty and history. You can expect to see ancient woodlands with diverse flora, including seasonal wildflowers. Some routes offer views of the historic Launde Abbey and the picturesque Eyebrook Reservoir, such as the Stoke Dry Wood – View of Eyebrook Reservoir loop from Uppingham.

Spring is particularly beautiful, as the woodland floor transforms with vibrant wildflowers like bluebells and wood anemones. Autumn also offers stunning foliage. While trails are accessible year-round, be mindful of potentially muddy conditions during wetter months.

For a longer adventure, consider the Stoke Dry Wood – Uppingham Market Town loop from Stoke Dry, which covers nearly 12 km. Another excellent option is the Brooke Priory House – St Peter's Church, Brooke loop from Brooke, spanning over 11 km.

While specific parking details for each starting point are best checked on the individual route pages, Launde Big Wood generally has accessible public footpaths. It's advisable to look for designated parking areas or roadside parking near the trailheads before your visit.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 220 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere of the ancient woodlands, the well-maintained paths, and the scenic views, making it a popular choice for walks with dogs.

While this guide focuses on the trails themselves, the surrounding villages and towns, such as Uppingham, often have establishments that welcome dogs. It's always a good idea to check directly with the pub or cafe beforehand to confirm their dog policy.

Launde Big Wood offers a distinct experience with its focus on ancient woodlands, rich historical significance (including remnants of a Norman castle and Launde Abbey views), and diverse flora. While Rutland Water provides extensive lakeside walks, Launde Big Wood excels in offering a more secluded, forested environment with rolling hills and panoramic countryside views, ideal for those seeking a tranquil woodland adventure with their dog.