The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Bury

Bury offers a wide selection of dog-friendly hiking trails, with over 150 routes available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging moorland ascents, ensuring there's something for every dog and owner.

You can expect a diverse range of landscapes. Bury features expansive moorlands, such as the West Pennine Moors and Holcombe Hill, offering panoramic views. There are also tranquil riverside paths along the River Irwell and numerous woodlands like Burrs Country Park and Prestwich Forest Park, providing varied scenery for you and your dog.

Yes, Bury has over 40 easy dog-friendly routes. Many of these can be found in local parks and along river paths, such as those in Burrs Country Park or Nuttall Park, which offer well-maintained footways. These are often suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs too, making them ideal for a relaxed outing.

Many dog-friendly routes in Bury pass by notable landmarks. You could hike to the iconic Peel Tower on Holcombe Hill, which offers incredible views. Another option is to explore sections of the Irwell Sculpture Trail, which combines art installations with natural scenery along the River Irwell.

Yes, many of the dog-friendly trails in Bury are circular. For example, the moderate Bradshaw Brook Weir – Wayoh Reservoir Dam loop from Bromley Cross is a great option, covering about 9 km. Another popular choice is the Old Steam Engine – Meccano Bridge loop from Radcliffe, which is around 10.6 km.

The dog-friendly trails in Bury are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from nearly 500 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the stunning views from places like Holcombe Hill, and the accessibility of many routes for dogs.

For those seeking more challenging hikes, the West Pennine Moors, including areas around Holcombe Hill and Bull Hill, offer routes with significant elevation and rugged terrain. These provide rewarding views across Greater Manchester and beyond. There are 15 difficult dog-friendly routes available for experienced hikers and their dogs.

Absolutely. Many routes follow the River Irwell, offering pleasant riverside walks. The Ringley Old Bridge – Large Weir on the River Croal loop from Kearsley is a moderate 8.1 km route that incorporates water features. Burrs Country Park also features the River Irwell and offers opportunities for dogs to enjoy the water.

Bury is home to several beautiful woodlands perfect for dog walks. Prestwich Forest Park, which includes Philips Park and Drinkwater Park, offers over 500 acres of woodland and open space. Redisher Wood is another excellent option, providing shaded paths and leading to moorland views.

For longer adventures, consider routes that connect different areas. The Meccano Bridge – Ringley Old Bridge loop from Radcliffe is a moderate 14.2 km hike that offers a substantial distance for you and your dog to explore the local landscape.

Beyond the general landscapes, you can encounter specific natural features. Highlights include the Bull Hill Trig Point and the Harcles Hill Cairn on Holcombe Moor, offering distinct natural markers and expansive views across the West Pennine Moors.