The Lake District is one of the UK’s favourite staycation destinations, but what many people don’t realise is that it’s a particular favourite of dog owners. It’s partly due to the miles – and miles! – of scenic walks, perfect for wearing out even the most energetic of furry friends. But there are also plenty of other dog-friendly attractions throughout the area, from boat trips to castles. And if you’re staying at Old Park Wood Caravan Park or Longlands Holiday Park, you have a great base for a Lakelands break with your canine companion.
Holidaying with Your Dog in Our Holiday Parks in Cumbria
Dog-friendly walks near Old Park Wood
One of the main attractions of Old Park Wood is its unique location. It’s not only positioned within the Southern Lakes but also within the grounds of the Holker Estate, so you have immediate access to Morecambe Bay as well as the tranquil landscape surrounding it.
Holker Estate and park trails
The Holker Estate has a lot to offer anyone: formal gardens, wildflower meadows, bluebell woods, and deer parks, and that’s just within the grounds of the Hall. The entire estate is around 17,000 acres, with much of it accessible to anyone staying at Old Park Wood, giving dogs and humans plenty to see – and sniff! – throughout the year.
Humphrey Head
A short drive away, just south of the village of Allithwaite, Humphrey Head is perfect for letting dogs off lead. It’s a limestone promontory with some lovely, open coastal tracks and is very popular with birdwatchers and plant spotters. For dog walkers, it has the added bonus of a quiet beach to walk along at low tide, so you can play fetch in the shallows.
Cartmel village and racecourse loop
Cartmel is a lovely village, very typical of the area, and attracts a lot of people for its history and its food – it has several dog-friendly cafés and pubs. But with the racecourse, it’s also a great place for an easy walk. Just don’t forget to check the course’s schedule before you set out, as you’re obviously not allowed to walk the track on race days.
Dog-friendly walks near Longlands Park
There’s greenery all around Longlands, so you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing walks.
Urswick Tarn
The circular walk of Urswick Tarn is one of the most easily accessible walks for anyone staying at Longlands. It’s very flat and easy-going. So, if you have an older dog or prefer an easier stroll yourself, Usrwick Tarn is ideal.
Birkrigg Common
If you like to let your dog off-lead, Birkrigg Common probably isn’t for you, because a lot livestock graze the area. For dogs happy on a lead, Brikrigg is a beautiful place to walk. It have the most incredible panoramic sea views, making it an amazing spot to take in the sunset. And there’s even a stone circle to explore, which can be great fun for kids.
Bardsea to Baycliff coastal path
The coastal path between Bardsea and Baycliff is simply glorious. As well as the uninterrupted views across Morecambe Bay, you have the limestone pavements and beautiful beaches to look at. And if you feel like a cuppa or a cool drink, the World Peace Cafe at the Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre welcomes dogs.
Other attractions that welcome dogs
Having a dog with you doesn’t mean that you have to limit yourself to walking; there are plenty of other places in the area where dogs can join you.
- Holker Hall Gardens – Dogs on leads are allowed in designated areas of the Holker Hall Gardens.
- Coniston Launch – If your dogs are well-behaved, you can take them for a cruise on Coniston Water.
- Grizedale Forest – So much more than woodlands, Grizedale Forest is peppered with sculptures and artwork to add entertainment to your wanderings.
If the Lake District is your holidaying happy place, investing in your own luxury lodge or static caravan can be the perfect solution. Holker holiday parks are both dog-friendly sites, providing the perfect base for you and your best friend
If you’re looking for static caravans for sale in the Lake District, find out more about owning your own holiday home in our holiday parks in Cumbria.
