Eight great dog walks in the Cotswolds

It’s no secret that the Cotswolds has awe inspiringly beautiful countryside and, as such, walking the dogs while you are here is not just a necessity but a joy. There are ample walks that cater to both the keenest of ramblers and those who prefer a more sedate walk. Choose from longer walks taking in Roman villas or walk around the grounds of a palace.

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Broadway Tower

Walk the dogs round the easy but stunning 1.2km circular walk at Broadway Tower. You won’t be disappointed by the views at the location for the Tower was wisely chosen, a dramatic outlook on a pre-medieval trading route and beacon hil on top of the beautiful Cotswolds escarpment. It was the brainchild of the great 18th century landscape designer, “Capability Brown”. His vision was carried out for George William 6th Earl of Coventry with the help of renowned architect James Wyatt and completed in 1798. Along the way see the resident herd of red deer, enjoy the dog agility obstacles and then pop in for coffee and cake or lunch at the Morris Brown Cafe. 

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Winchcombe

Beautiful Winchcombe is a “Walkers are Welcome” town and a prime centre for people who love the outdoors, especially walking. It has a plethora of pubs, shops and accommodation, coupled with a lovely atmosphere and a great location, you can’t go wrong.

The historic town offers a variety of walks to suit all ages and abilities. There are town walks, historical walks or walks across the unspoilt Cotswold landscape. The variety is diverse, including a Roman villa, a Neolithic burial mound, a steam railway, vast expanse of common land and impressive views across to the Malvern Hills and Wales. Booklet of walks can be found in the Visitor Information Centre

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Blenheim Palace

Perfect for all the family is The Queen Pool walk: a 1.5-mile circular walk around the lake taking 45 minutes. Not only is the walk dog-friendly, but it is also suitable for wheelchair and buggy users. It’s a chance to share the splendours of Baroque architecture designed in the 1700s by Vanbrugh and Hawksmoor and discover landscapes crafted by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown to form magnificent vistas of English countryside. So why not take a visit to Blenheim Palace for an unforgettable experience with your pooch pal.

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Cotswolds National Landscape

The Cotswolds National Landscape is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, looked after by the Cotswolds Conservation Board – their website holds 130 glorious walks of varying levels. They also have Cotswold Voluntary Wardens who offer guided walks across the Cotswolds National Landscape. All details are on their website. 

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Westonbirt Arboretum

Home to 2,500 different species from the far corners of the globe and 5 national tree collections, Westonbirt is the perfect place for you to escape, relax or have an adventure with your furry friends. 

Dogs are permitted off the lead in Silk Wood as long as they are kept under control, remain in sight and return when called.

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Thames Path

The Thames Path is a National Trail footpath running for 180 miles along the banks of the river Thames, as it follows the banks of the river, the path is flat, making for easy walking and with much of the river being a busy waterway, there is usually plenty of activity to watch.

Part of the Thames Path runs through the Cotswolds, of particular beauty is the section that runs through Lechlade.

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Tetbury

Tetbury is famous for its royal connections and antique shops. It is a great base for Westonbirt Arboretum. Why not take the circular walk through country lanes, park and farm lands, skirting the Highgrove estate to the Hare & Hounds hotel. Return through Doughton using old road and farm tracks. The Tetbury Visitor Information Centre has the relevant Ordnance Survey Explorer OS168 or OL168 maps you need to devise your own route.

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Charlbury

Located beneath the ancient forest of Wychwood, in the Cotswolds, Charlbury is the ideal place for a country walk.

With hourly express trains from London Paddington, Reading and Oxford, there's no need to bring the car. You'll find a warm welcome in the town's shops, four pubs and accommodation is plentiful.