10 summer dog walks with swimming opportunities
10 summer dog walks with swimming opportunities
With summer fast approaching, it’s the perfect time to take your dog for a walk with water to help them keep cool. Don’t forget to pop your Ruff and Tumble drying robe in the boot, so by the time you get home your pup is dry and ready to chill on the sofa for the evening!
@pawsexplorenorth has put together their top 10 swimming locations for you and your dog!
1. The Grey Mare’s Tail, Kinlochleven
Not all walks in the Highlands involve scaling a mountainside. Enjoy a leisurely stroll from the village of Kinlochleven to the Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall. Not only are the falls spectacularly beautiful, your dog will enjoy the opportunity to have a paddle in the stream too.
2. Embleton Bay, Northumberland
Dog friendly beaches don’t get much better than this! Embleton Bay welcomes dogs year round and is perhaps Northumberland’s most scenic beach, with the crumbling remains of Dunstanburgh Castle watching over the sands. Finish your trip with a visit to the dog friendly Jolly Fisherman in Craster.
3. Derwentwater, Lake District
From a quick visit to Friar’s Crag to a half day hike around the circumference of the lake, Derwentwater has a route to suit you. Whatever you choose, there’ll be plenty of chances for your dog to take a dip in the lake - perfect for a summer’s day.
4. Lydford Gorge, Devon
One of the last temperate rainforests in Britain, you’ll need to keep your dog on a lead during your visit to Lydford Gorge, but a wander along the paths here presents many opportunities for dogs to have a paddle. Make sure to visit the White Lady waterfall while you’re there - it’s one of the most beautiful locations in the South West.
5. Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire
Freshwater West is a pilgrimage destination - for fans of Harry Potter. Home to Dobby’s Grave, a visit to Freshwater West at low tide is also an excellent opportunity to let your dog have a zoom on the beach. This beach is dog friendly year round, but can be popular in summer and has limited parking, so get there early.
6. Ballater Seven Bridges Trail, Cairngorms
This 6.5 mile way marked trail from the town of Ballater crosses the river no fewer than (you guessed it) 7 times, and has several opportunities for dogs to have a swim. There’s an optional detour to visit a ruined sixteenth century tower for history lovers, too.
7. Dolgoch Falls, Snowdonia
A trip to Dolgoch Falls is perfect for owners of water loving pooches. The route follows the water nearly all the way, with countless places where dogs can access the water for a dip. It’s pretty scenic for humans, too.
8. Lantic Bay, Cornwall
Many beaches in Cornwall implement a seasonal dog ban during the summer months, but you are welcome to take your dog to Lantic Bay all year round. This stunning beach has turquoise waters and most dogs would happily spend all day here - if you can brave the steps to get down to the beach, that is!
9. Balmaha Millenium Trail, Loch Lomond
There’s no better place than the bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Lomond for a dog walk on a summer day. The short millennium trail from the village of Balmaha combines sections of the West Highland Way with local trails for outstanding views and the chance for dogs to have a swim in the loch - paradise.
10. Aysgarth Falls, Yorkshire Dales
Walk in the footsteps of Robin Hood with a visit to Aysgarth Falls. With more riverside picnic spots than you can shake a stick at, there are ample opportunities for dogs to get in the water. To extend your walk, loop through nearby Freeholders Wood for a shady summer stroll.
Our Summer Must-Haves
Whether it rains or shines, our Drying Coat & Mitts are a summertime essential for keeping warm and cosy after getting caught in the rain or taking a dip to cool off. We always recommend keeping a spare lead in the car, as if you're anything like us, things can get forgotten when packing for a trip!
