The Best Dog Walks
The historic destinations on HeritageXplore are not just havens of British history and architecture. They also boast luscious gardens, vast parklands and dog-friendly cafes, making them ideal for a doggy day out! From the manicured gardens at Belvoir Castle to panoramic coastal views at Gwrych Castle, these houses are the perfect canine paradise. Keep reading for some of the best dog walks our houses have to offer.
Belvoir Castle
Rutland is one of the most beautiful counties in Britain and the grounds of Belvoir Castle, its crown jewels, are no exception. The vast estate is home to multiple routes, ideal for you and your four-legged friend.
If you fancy a peaceful wander, the Kings Walk is for you. The route guides visitors through ancient woodland, past ponds and gentle streams. For a real adventure, follow the Spiral Walk path, named after the spirals it traces leading out from the Castle. Along this walk, you will discover charming follies and stunning panoramic views.
Dogs can roam free in the Castle gardens and parkland, across miles of open space.
Book your tickets here.
Blenheim Palace
The grand Oxfordshire palace boasts 2000 acres of parkland, designed by the masterful landscape architect, Capability Brown. Make sure you visit the tree-fringed lake at the heart of the estate, the centrepiece of Brown’s design, for a short 35 minute stroll.
The Park Perimeter trail is perfect for dog-walkers after more of a challenge. Taking around 2 hours, this trail offers 360 views of Blenheim Palace. It is open throughout the year, so you must come back and enjoy the walk in all seasons. The landscape is particularly beautiful in autumn as the palace is framed by fiery red and orange trees.
You can find the route map here to start planning your trip.
Grab a refreshment after a hearty walk at the dog-friendly pantry cafe. They also serve dodgy ice cream to treat your pet after a long walk.
Please note that dogs are not allowed Formal or Walled Gardens, Palace, Adventure Playground, Stables Café or Orangery Restaurant. Dogs must be on the lead at all times.
Book your tickets here.
Gwrych Castle
Gwrych Castle in Wales is a gem of the dramatic gothic revival style. The castle is set on the side of a wooded hill, with breaktaking views across the ocean. The entire estate is dog-friendly, ideal for history steeped adventures. The ancient site is surrounded by miles of peaceful woodland for dog walkers to explore.
We recommend walking to the viewpoint at Cefn yr Ogof, which stands at an impressive height of 204 metres. This elevated spot adds a little challenge to your walk and rewards you with panoramic views off the north Wales coast that are simply unforgettable.
Book your tickets here.
Holkham Hall
Holkham Hall estate in Norfolk offers a huge variety of dog and bicycle friendly walks across its staggering 25,000 acres of parkland. With routes taking visitors across tarmac paths, grassland and woodland, there is something for everyone. There are seven main trails which are colour coded, making it easier than ever to make your way across the parkland. You can access a route map here.
If you are after a gentle ramble, the 2 mile Orange walk will lead you gently around the lake, through the woods and past the mediaeval church of St Withburga.
There are water bowls and poo bins stationed across the estate. Dogs must be kept on the lead as the parkland is home to over 350 deer and other wildlife.
Book you tickets here.
