The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Bedgebury Forest

There are 5 dedicated dog-friendly hiking routes in and around Bedgebury Forest featured in this guide. These range from easy strolls to more moderate forest walks, ensuring options for various fitness levels and dog energy levels.

Yes, Bedgebury Forest offers several easy dog-friendly walks. For example, the 3.4 km loop, The Bull Inn, Bewl Water – The Bell Inn loop from Ticehurst, is rated easy and provides a pleasant outing. Another easy option is the 5.0 km The Bell Inn – The Bull Inn, Bewl Water loop from Ticehurst.

The dog-friendly trails in Bedgebury Forest traverse a varied landscape. You can expect rolling hills, picturesque valleys, ancient woodlands, and serene lakes. Many paths wind through both deciduous and coniferous sections of the forest, with streams adding to the natural character. The trails are generally well-maintained, offering a mix of forest paths and tracks.

For those seeking a longer adventure with their dog, the 11.1 km View of Bewl Water – View of Bewl Water loop from Ticehurst is a moderate route that offers more extensive exploration of the area's natural beauty, including views of Bewl Water.

Bedgebury Forest is rich in natural beauty. You can explore ancient woodlands, serene lakes like Louisa Lake, and diverse tree collections. The wider area is part of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering scenic vistas and varied landscapes. Many trails offer glimpses into the unique Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, home to a world-leading collection of conifer trees.

Yes, all the dog-friendly routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without needing to retrace your steps. This is convenient for parking and planning your day.

The dog-friendly trails in Bedgebury Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the beautiful, well-maintained paths, the peaceful forest atmosphere, and the suitability of the routes for walking with dogs.

Bedgebury Forest offers a great experience for dogs throughout the year. The landscape transforms with the seasons, from vibrant spring blooms to rich autumn hues. However, always be mindful of weather conditions, especially during hot summer days or muddy winter periods, and ensure your dog has access to water.

While Bedgebury Forest is very dog-friendly, it's always important to keep your dog under control, especially around wildlife, other visitors, and livestock if present in surrounding areas. Please follow any local signage regarding lead requirements, particularly in sensitive areas or during nesting seasons. Always clean up after your dog to help keep the forest beautiful for everyone.

Bedgebury Forest has a visitor centre, café, and toilet facilities available. These amenities can be found near the main entrance, providing convenient options before or after your dog walk. There are also dog-friendly pubs in nearby villages like Ticehurst, which can be a great option for refreshments.

Bedgebury Forest is primarily accessed by car, with ample parking available on-site. For detailed directions and current information, it's advisable to check the official Bedgebury Forest website before your visit. Public transport options to the immediate vicinity may be limited, so planning ahead is recommended.