Given its idyllic location, it makes sense that the dog friendly walks in Troutbeck deliver this region’s wow factor and that goes for the pet friendly pubs in Troutbeck too that you are sure to chance upon during your staycation in this part of the Lakes.
Find Good Places to Walk Dogs in Troutbeck
On the hilly old coach road from Windermere to Penrith, this settlement has changed little over the years, retaining its Lake District village charm that makes dog walking in Troutbeck and its surrounding landscape an experience you and your pooch will never forget.
Put on the map by children’s author Beatrix Potter who bred Herdwick sheep on Troutbeck Park Farm, it is now a destination for keen walkers and literary lovers alike. Here Kep the Collie helped keep her flock in check it is now run by the National Trust and is at the beginning of one of the best dog walks found anywhere in the Lake District.
On the only road lane leading through Troutbeck, you will see drinking troughs, all bearing the names of saints, that was provided for horses before they tackled the long climb over the Kirkstone (Church Stone) Pass to Patterdale and beyond.
Some call this area Wordsworth Country and there is no doubt that many of the good places to walk dogs will involve the poet in some way. Examples are Rydal Mount, still owned by the Wordsworth family, Allen Bank and Hawkshead Old Grammar School, now a museum.
The Best Troutbeck Walks for Dogs
1. Wansfell Pike
Usually, this is a longer walk, starting in Ambleside but you and your canine companion have the advantage of being in the village that continues the route up to Wansfell Peak. Between the two houses next to the Mortal Man pub is a footpath up to Nanny Lane that leads directly to the peak. It’s a steady climb to the top where you will be greeted with superb views over Ambleside and the surrounding fells.
2. Tarn Hows
This two-mile route is a favourite with Lake District locals taking you around a small, low-level mountain lake or town that is surrounded by mixed woodland. You will have to drive into Ambleside to start this five-mile hike with your hound. It is especially popular due to its level of easiness as well as being one of the most photographed parts of the Lake District, thanks to its stunning scenery.
3. Loughrigg
Designed for four-paws that aren’t fazed by a good outdoor workout this seven-mile circuit includes woods, waterside, farmland and a steep hill climb. It starts from the Rydal Road car park and takes you alongside the River Rothy, through farmland and then up towards woodland before the last haul up to the summit of Loughrigg with splendid views of Lake Windermere.
4. Troutbeck Park Farm
Leaving from the Queen’s Head Hotel this 2.5-mile walk will eventually lead you to the 825ft summit of the Troutbeck Tongue but not before you have a chance to explore the farm where Beatrix Potter bred her Herdwick sheep. Flocks still dot the fields so remind Rover that he is not auditioning for the National Sheep Dog Trials on this charming walk.
5. Wordsworth Walk
This is the ideal playground for pooches who aren’t great on their feet and fans of all things Wordsworth. This easy lakeside walk is poetry in motion and takes in all of Rydal Water up to Rydal Mount where the man himself once lived. There are waterfalls and woodland trails along the way that will make the five miles go by in a flash.
The Top-Rated Woodland Walks in Troutbeck for Dogs
1. Loweswater
Nestled in a wooded valley this 3.5-mile lake walk is one of the Lake District’s best-kept secrets. Start at the car park on the east side of the lake and enter Holme Wood where Lassie can frolic to her heart’s content. You can marvel at the mixture of oak, sycamore and ash and if you’re here in spring you’ll be greeted with an endless carpet of bluebells. You might even catch sight of a red squirrel pair or two.
2. Allen Bank
This short but well-marked woodland walk is on the grounds of the home where William Wordsworth spent two years of life. The curators describe the woods as “doggy heaven”. The 2.5-mile walk leads you through trees filled with birdlife and along with the River Allen where you will see grey wagtail and dipper. The walk, steep in places, culminates at the Morralee Tarn.
3. Craggy Plantation
Take the six-minute train ride from Windermere to Staveley where you can explore the woods on the outskirts of this charming Lake District village. Take the walk up through the deciduous woodland of this crag plantation. The tree-studded slopes lead over a grassy ridge and into one of Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s smaller Dorothy Farrer’s Spring Wood, famous for its mosses and fungi.
Short Walks in Troutbeck with Dogs
1. Blea Tarn
Once you’ve explored the area surrounding Troutbeck without having to start your car’s engine, this National Trust Walk is worth the short 20-minute drive for brilliant views of Pike of Blisco, Lingmoor and other surrounding Langdale Fells. It is just under two miles long is an easy level ramble with shaded seating in the various wooded spots along the way.
2. Trail of Two Tearooms
If your water bottle goes walkies, then there is no fear here because this amble has a café at either end. Formally known as the Skelwith and Elterwater Walk, it only takes half an hour to complete. Where it compromises on the miles it is doesn’t hold back on the views, especially of Elterwater. There are woodland, bridges and meadowland for your fur baby to enjoy.
3. Bogle Crag Trail
With views of the lakes and mountains and sculptures in the woods, this 2.5-mile part of the Grizedale Forest Trail is as fascinating as it is invigorating. You and your trusty companion can take as much time as you want in this slice of the 8,000 acres of ancient woodland that is home to 80 sculptures such as Andy Goldsworthy’s Taking a Wall for a Walk.
Mountain Walks
1. Cat Bells
In a region that is famous for its “views to a thrill”, this has to be one of the best. You will have to take the boat from Keswick to Hawes Ending Landing for the three-mile circular trail that takes you up to the Cat Bells where you and your terrier will be treated to panoramic views over Derwent Water and Borrowdale.
2. Stickle Tarn
This is on the lower level of Langdale, no major peaks here but it is still a challenge not to be barked at and only the hardiest hounds need to apply. There is a steep path that follows Stickle Ghyll up the side of the valley that is interspersed with rock pools and dramatic waterfalls. All your hard work will be rewarded with views across the valley of Lingmoor.
3. Alcock Tarn
You could be brave and head up higher than this eight-mile hike to Stone Arthur, but this 3.7 mile, 1000ft ascent is going to give you all the climbing kicks you and your canine will need. Alcock’s pure mountain water is perfect for doggie drinks, paddling and swimming. At the foot of this climb, you will pass Dove Cottage, William Wordsworth’s birthplace.
Looking to Take a Mini-Break?
Troutbeck is a top choice for dog owners looking for staycations, check out what we have below.
Holiday Cottages
There are literally tons of dog friendly Troutbeck cottages dotted around the local area, from rustic village properties to fabulous countryside cottages.
Log Cabins
Lodges are a little harder to find, log cabins in and around Troutbeck are very popular. These luxury retreats will be at the top of everyone’s getaway list.
Last Word
A good dog walking holiday here would not be complete without some pet friendly days out in Troutbeck and its neighbouring villages, hamlets and towns. A trip to the Lake District with Fido in tow is going to be a muddy paw and boot affair as you take to the tarns and woods and make for the summits that provide views of the lakes below and the distant peaks beyond.