The Lake District is a fantastic destination for dog owners, offering a wide range of dog-friendly activities and attractions. From scenic boat rides to historic houses and gardens, the Lake District has something for every canine companion. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best places to visit with your furry friend in the Lake District.
Dog-Friendly Attractions
- Windermere Lake Cruises: Enjoy a scenic boat ride on England’s largest lake with your dog. Cruises range from 45 minutes to three hours and stop at various points around the lake, including Ambleside, Brockhole, Bowness, and Lakeside.
- Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway: Take a romantic steam train ride through the beautiful Leven Valley to the southern tip of Lake Windermere. Dogs travel free of charge.
- Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway: Explore the scenic seven-mile journey from Ravenglass to Dalegarth on a narrow gauge steam railway. Dogs are welcome on board for a small charge.
- Coniston Launch: Enjoy a variety of boat cruises on Coniston Water, including the ‘Swallows and Amazons’ and ‘Campbells on Coniston’ cruises. Dogs travel free.
- Keswick Launch: Take a cruise on Derwentwater and enjoy the scenic views. Dogs are welcome on board.
- Lakeland Motor Museum: Explore a fascinating collection of over 30,000 exhibits tracing the development of road transport throughout the twentieth century. Dogs are allowed in the museum.
- Brockhole on Windermere: Visit the gardens, grounds, shop, exhibition area, and cafe terrace with your dog. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome.
- Muncaster Castle Gardens: Explore the beautiful gardens and grounds of Muncaster Castle with your dog. Dogs are allowed on leads.
- Hutton-in-the-Forest: Visit this historic house with spectacular gardens and architecture. Dogs are welcome in the tearoom and on leads in the gardens.
- Grizedale and Whinlatter Forests: Enjoy scenic walks and outdoor activities in these beautiful forests with your dog.
Dog-Friendly Walks
- Claife Viewing Station and the west shore of Windermere: Take a car-free walk along the lakeshore path between Wray and Claife Viewing Station, perfect for a leisurely stroll with your dog.
- Whinlatter Forest: Explore the scenic trails and walks in Whinlatter Forest, suitable for dogs of all sizes and abilities.
- Grizedale Forest: Enjoy a variety of walks and outdoor activities in Grizedale Forest, including scenic trails and adventure playgrounds.
Other Dog-Friendly Activities
- Canoeing and Ghyll Scrambling: Experience the thrill of canoeing and ghyll scrambling with your dog through companies like Path to Adventure.
- Railway Museum: Visit the Ravenglass Railway Museum to learn about the history of the railway and enjoy a dog-friendly day out.
Accommodation
The Lake District offers a wide range of dog-friendly accommodations, including cottages, glamping spaces, and hotels. Many of these accommodations welcome multiple dogs and provide dog-friendly facilities and services.
Tips and Essentials
- Always check the attraction’s dog policy before visiting.
- Keep your dog on a lead in public areas and respect other visitors.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog.
- Plan your day according to your dog’s energy levels and needs.
- Enjoy the beautiful scenery and bonding time with your dog!
References:
– Canopy & Stars. (n.d.). Paw-some Dog Friendly Activities in the Lake District. Retrieved from https://www.canopyandstars.co.uk/find-your-wild/inspiration/paw-some-dog-friendly-activities-in-the-lake-district/
– Sally’s Cottages. (n.d.). 10 of the Best Dog Friendly Attractions in the Lake District. Retrieved from https://www.sallyscottages.co.uk/guides/10-best-dog-friendly-attractions-lake-district
– Canine Cottages. (n.d.). Best Dog-Friendly Lake District and Cumbria Attractions. Retrieved from https://www.caninecottages.co.uk/guides/most-fabulous-dog-friendly-attractions-lake-district
– Dog Friendly Lake District. (n.d.). Dog Friendly Attractions in the Lake District. Retrieved from https://www.dogfriendlylakedistrict.com/days-out/attractions.php
– Take the Dogs. (n.d.). 20 Dog Friendly Days Out in the Lake District. Retrieved from https://www.takethedogs.com/england/lake-district/20-dog-friendly-days-out-in-the-lake-district/