6 Best Dog-Friendly Walks in the Cotswolds 🐾
Why the Cotswolds is Perfect for Dog Walks
Rolling hills, honey-stone villages, and sweeping countryside trails make the Cotswolds one of the UK’s best regions for exploring with your dog. Whether you’re after a short riverside stroll with a pub stop or a long ramble across open countryside, there are plenty of dog-friendly walks in the Cotswolds to suit every pup.
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Here are six of the best routes for your next adventure:
1. Broadway Tower Circular Walk
Location: Broadway
Broadway Tower - Broadway Tower
One of the most iconic Cotswolds landmarks, Broadway Tower offers spectacular views and a rewarding circular walk. The wide tracks and open grassland make it ideal for dogs to enjoy a good run. Pups are welcome in the tower grounds (on leads), and Broadway village has plenty of dog-friendly pubs and cafés for a post-walk treat.
Dog-friendly tip: The Broadway Hotel is a cosy spot that welcomes dogs.
2. The Cotswold Way (Chipping Campden to Dover’s Hill)
Location: Chipping Campden
The Cotswold Way is a 102-mile national trail, but you can enjoy it in smaller sections. The stretch from Chipping Campden to Dover’s Hill is a popular dog walk, with rolling fields, stunning views, and plenty of fresh air.
Dog-friendly tip: Bring water for your pup—parts of the trail are remote with limited streams.
3. Bibury and Arlington Row Walk
Location: Bibury
Often called “the prettiest village in England,” Bibury is a must-see. A gentle riverside walk along the River Coln takes you past the famous Arlington Row cottages and surrounding countryside. Perfect for a relaxed stroll with your dog.
Dog-friendly tip: Keep an eye out for ducks and swans along the riverbanks!
Top-tip: Bibury is extremely popular with tourists in the summer. Come in late Autumn for beautiful scenery without the crowds.
4. Painswick Beacon Circular Walk
Location: Painswick
For something a little more adventurous, try the Painswick Beacon walk. This circular route takes in sweeping views, woodlands, and wide-open hills. Dogs will love the variety of terrain and open spaces here.
Dog-friendly tip: Pack a picnic—the Beacon is an excellent spot for a rest with breathtaking views.
5. Bourton-on-the-Water Riverside Walk
Location: Bourton-on-the-Water
Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” this charming village is great for dog owners. A riverside walk along the Windrush offers lovely views and a safe, shallow river where water-loving dogs can paddle.
Dog-friendly tip: Most pubs and tea rooms here are dog-friendly—ideal for recharging after your stroll.
Top-tip: Bourton-on-the-water is extremely busy in summer and parking can be difficult. Visit this beautiful place in Autumn/Winter for lovely scenery without the crowds - the Cotswolds is stunning in all seasons.
6. Selsley Common
Location: Near Stroud
If your pup loves space to run, Selsley Common is a dream. With wide-open grassland, historical features like an Iron Age fort, and panoramic views over the Severn Vale, this is one of the best dog walks in the Cotswolds.
Dog-friendly tip: Sheep often graze on the common, so leads are recommended in some areas. Always follow the local signage and look out for livestock.
Final Thoughts
The Cotswolds is bursting with dog-friendly walks, from historic landmarks to quiet riverside paths. Whether you want a gentle stroll or a full countryside adventure, you’ll find the perfect walk for both you and your pup.
So grab your walking boots, pack the treats, and discover why the Cotswolds is one of the UK’s top dog-walking destinations. 🐶🌿
Take a look at our walking/hiking gear to make your adventure even better!
These views are making me want to come back for longer to visit these places😀