Looking for the best dog walking Durham routes? This guide highlights the top spots for safe and enjoyable walks with your pup. We’ll detail unique features, distances, and suitability for different types of walkers. From scenic riverside strolls to challenging forest hikes, Durham offers a variety of routes that cater to all preferences and fitness levels.
Discover dog-friendly loops, picturesque views, and practical information to make your next walk in Durham a great experience for you and your furry friend. Dive in to find the perfect route for your next walk in Durham with dogs.
Dog Walking in Durham – Quick Nav Links
Dog-Friendly Walks in Durham Reviewed
1. Flass Hall loop from New Brancepeth
The Flass Hall loop from New Brancepeth offers dog walkers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and practicality. This 5-mile (8 km) trail, suitable for intermediate walkers, takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete. The walk starts and ends in New Brancepeth village, leading through varied terrains, including woodlands, open fields, and riverside paths. The path features gentle inclines and a few uneven sections, providing a bit of challenge without being overwhelming.
The picturesque views and the serene atmosphere make this walk stand out despite its proximity to the village. You’ll encounter historical sites like Flass Hall, adding an interesting element to the walk. Ideal for dog owners, the route offers plenty of off-leash opportunities, but be mindful of areas with livestock. The lack of facilities along the route means bringing water and snacks is wise. This walk is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, moderately challenging adventure with their furry friend in the Durham countryside.
- Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Start and End Points: New Brancepeth village
- Highlights: Scenic views, Flass Hall, varied terrains
- Duration: 2-3 hours
2. Riverside Walk Loop from Durham
The Riverside walk loop from Durham offers a picturesque and accessible route along the scenic River Wear. This 3-mile (5 km) path, starting and ending in Durham City Centre, is perfect for dog walkers of all levels. The mostly flat terrain, serene river views and glimpses of the iconic Durham Cathedral provide a relaxing yet engaging experience. The walk takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, making it ideal for a leisurely afternoon outing.
What sets this walk apart is its dog-friendly nature. There are numerous off-lead areas where dogs can explore safely and several spots along the river to cool off. The trail feels peaceful and secluded despite its proximity to the city centre. However, it’s important to be prepared for muddy sections, especially after rain, so wearing appropriate footwear is advisable. The path is well-signposted, ensuring a straightforward and enjoyable experience for everyone. This walk is ideal for families, older walkers, and anyone seeking a scenic, easy stroll with their furry friend in Durham.
- Distance: 3 miles (5 km)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Start and End Points: Durham City Centre
- Highlights: River Wear views, Durham Cathedral, lush greenery
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
3. Stone Spiral loop from Croxdale
The Stone Spiral loop from Croxdale is a picturesque and engaging route perfect for dog walkers looking for a varied and tranquil walk. This 4-mile (6.5 km) trail starts and ends in the charming village of Croxdale and takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours to complete. The walk features a mix of terrains, including serene woodland paths, expansive open fields, and scenic riverside sections, making it moderately challenging with gentle inclines and some uneven ground.
This dog-friendly walk in Durham offers ample off-lead areas where dogs can explore safely and enjoy the natural surroundings. The shaded woodland sections provide cool spots for dogs to rest, while the open fields offer plenty of space to run freely. Be prepared for muddy patches, especially after rain, so suitable waterproof footwear is recommended. The well-marked trail ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing walkers to enjoy the peaceful countryside without worrying about getting lost. This walk is ideal for those seeking a peaceful yet invigorating outing away from the busy city life with their canine companions.
- Distance: 4 miles (6.5 km)
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Start and End Points: Croxdale village
- Highlights: Varied terrains, river views, woodland paths
- Duration: 2-2.5 hours
4. River Wear walk loop from Crossgate
The River Wear walk loop from Crossgate is excellent for dog walkers seeking a scenic and relaxing route. This 4-mile (6.5 km) loop starts and ends in Crossgate, Durham, and typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to complete. The path is relatively flat and easy, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels. The trail follows the River Wear, providing stunning views of the water and the historic Durham Cathedral, offering both natural beauty and cultural landmarks.
This dog-friendly walk in Durham has numerous off-lead areas where dogs can roam freely and enjoy the surroundings. The route is well-maintained and signposted, ensuring a smooth experience without navigation issues. However, some sections can become muddy, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is advisable. This walk is an ideal thing to do for families, solo walkers, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful, scenic outing with their dog, combining the tranquillity of nature with the rich history of Durham.
- Distance: 4 miles (6.5 km)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Start and End Points: Crossgate, Durham
- Highlights: River Wear views, Durham Cathedral, historic architecture
- Duration: 2-2.5 hours
5. Wicker Woman & Hens loop from Merryoaks
The Wicker Woman & Hens loop from Merryoaks is a 3.5-mile (5.6 km) trail that starts and ends in Merryoaks, Durham and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. The path is relatively easy, with gentle inclines, making it suitable for walkers of all fitness levels. The route features a mix of woodland, open fields, and artistic installations, including the notable Wicker Woman sculpture and hen installations, which add an intriguing element to the walk.
This walk is particularly dog-friendly, with several off-lead areas for dogs to explore safely. The trail is well-maintained, but some sections can get muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is recommended. This walk is ideal for families, art enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a scenic and exciting dog walk in Durham.
- Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Start and End Points: Merryoaks, Durham
- Highlights: Woodland areas, open fields, Wicker Woman sculpture, hen installations
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
6. River Wear walk – View Over the Bridge loop from Elvet
The River Wear walk – View Over the Bridge loop from Elvet is an excellent choice for dog walkers seeking a scenic and accessible route. This 3.8-mile (6 km) trail starts and ends in the Elvet area of Durham, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. The path is easy, featuring mostly flat terrain with a few gentle inclines, making it suitable for all fitness levels.
This walk offers spectacular views of the River Wear and the historic Durham Cathedral, particularly from the bridge vantage points, making it one of the best walks in Durham.
- Distance: 3.8 miles (6 km)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Start and End Points: Elvet, Durham
- Highlights: River Wear views, Durham Cathedral, bridge viewpoints
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
7. Stone Spiral loop from Elvet
The Stone Spiral Loop from Elvet is an ideal walk for dog owners looking for a mix of natural scenery and light exercise. This 4-mile (6.5 km) route begins and ends in Elvet, Durham, and takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to complete. The walk features a variety of terrains, including woodlands, open fields, and riverside paths. It’s moderately challenging, with some gentle inclines and uneven sections.
- Distance: 4 miles (6.5 km)
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Start and End Points: Elvet, Durham
- Highlights: Varied terrains, river views, woodland paths, historical stone spiral
- Duration: 2-2.5 hours
8. River Wear & Durham City loop
The River Wear & Durham City loop is an ideal walk for dog owners, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical interest. This 3.7-mile (6 km) trail starts and ends in Durham City and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. The path is relatively easy, with mostly flat terrain and a few gentle inclines, making it accessible for walkers of all fitness levels.
This dog-friendly route features several off-lead areas where dogs can explore safely. The trail provides stunning views of the River Wear and Durham Cathedral, blending the tranquillity of nature with the charm of Durham’s historic architecture.
- Distance: 3.7 miles (6 km)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Start and End Points: Durham City
- Highlights: River Wear views, Durham Cathedral, historic city architecture
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
9. Croxdale Hall Loop from Croxdale
The Croxdale Hall Loop offers a serene and picturesque walking experience, ideal for dog owners seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical interest. This 3.5-mile (5.6 km) trail starts and ends in Croxdale village, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. The path is easy, featuring gentle inclines and well-maintained terrain, making it accessible for walkers of all fitness levels.
This walk is perfect for families, solo walkers, and anyone looking for a peaceful and scenic outing with their dog in Durham.
- Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Start and End Points: Croxdale village
- Highlights: Croxdale Hall views, woodlands, open fields
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
10. Durham Cathedral loop from Elvet
The Durham Cathedral loop from Elvet is an exceptional walk for dog owners, offering a rich historical and natural beauty blend. This 3-mile (4.8 km) route begins and ends in Elvet, Durham, and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. The trail is easy, mainly featuring flat terrain with gentle inclines, making it suitable for all fitness levels.
This dog-friendly walk in Durham has several off-lead areas where dogs can roam freely. The path provides stunning views of the River Wear and the iconic Durham Cathedral alongside the city’s historic architecture. The well-maintained and clearly signposted trail ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience. This loop will allow you access to some of the best dog-friendly pubs in Durham if you want to stop off for a drink or something to eat.
- Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Start and End Points: Elvet, Durham
- Highlights: River Wear views, Durham Cathedral, historic city architecture
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Dog Walking in Durham – FAQ
Yes, Durham is very dog-friendly with numerous parks, walking trails, and dog-friendly cafes and pubs where pets are welcome.
There are many great walking spots near Durham, including the Durham Cathedral loop from Elvet, Riverside walks, and the Stone Spiral loop from Croxdale.
Dogs are not allowed inside Durham Cathedral, but they are welcome in the Cathedral grounds as long as they are on a leash.
Yes, Durham is very walkable with a compact city centre, scenic riverside paths, and numerous walking trails.
Yes, there are several scenic riverside walks in Durham, including routes along the River Wear that offer beautiful views of the city and its historic landmarks.
Yes, County Durham is dog-friendly with many parks, open spaces, and walking trails where dogs are welcome.
Dogs must be kept under control in public places, and on a lead near roads or where livestock are present. Owners must clean up after their dogs.
No, dogs are not allowed in Durham Botanic Garden to protect the plant collections and wildlife.
Dogs are not allowed inside Durham Indoor Market, but they can accompany their owners around the outside market area.
The Durham Riverside walk is approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) long, providing a scenic route along the River Wear.