It’s easy for dog parents to get stuck in a routine of taking their dogs around the same loop in the same neighbourhood, but we’re very lucky in the UK to have so many incredible green spaces to explore, even in the capital itself. In a bid to find the fairest of them all, pet insurance experts Petsure have done some paw-fessional research into the UK’s best dog-walking spotsbased on social media data.
After some light detective work, it was London’s Bushy Park that nabbed the crown as the UK’s most scenic dog walking spot, with more than 170k Instagram posts and 1.7k TikToks. In second place is Dovestone Reservoir up in Yorkshire, which you’ll find on the western edge of the Peak District National Park.
Bushy Park is the second-largest of London’s Royal Parks and is a brilliant spot for all dogs, big or small. There’s tons of open space and forest areas (1,100 acres worth in fact) that are perfect for sniffing, scampering, and stopping to pee. The park is also home to wild red deer and fallow deer, though we remind you that it’s important to keep your dog on a lead near wild animals.
Top 10 Most Scenic Dog Walks in the UK
1. Bushy Park, Greater London
2. Dovestone Reservoir, West Yorkshire
3. Roundhay Park, West Yorkshire
4. Bradgate Park, East Midlands
5. Delamere Forest Walk, Cheshire
6. Willingham Woods, Lincoln
7. Sutton Park, West Midlands
8. Coombe Abbey Country Park, West Midlands
9. Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucester
10. Holkham Beach, Norfolk
Veterinarian Dr Corinne Wigfall MRCVS, who works with Petsure, explains the mental and physical benefits of regular dog walking:
“Regular walks give your dog the physical exercise they need to maintain a healthy weight, strong muscles, and good cardiovascular health.
“Remember that each dog is an individual, so tailor your walks to their age, breed, and ability. By adjusting walks to your dog’s pace and ability, you can help give them the right amount of exercise to stay healthy and happy.
“Walking isn’t just good for your dog’s physical health; it’s also crucial for their mental well-being. Exploring outdoors allows your dog to discover a variety of new scents, sights, and sounds for mental enrichment.”
Did you know that just 20 minutes of sniffing is equivalent to an hour’s walk?
So, there you have it: 10 of the most scenic dog-walking spots in the countrywith one of London’s very own Royal Parks topping the list. Next time you feel like stretching your legs, why not venture a bit further out?
