The best dog friendly days out in North East Derbyshire
rolling countryside, scenic trails and historic estates
in collaboration with
North East Derbyshire is a paradise for dog owners, offering miles of rolling countryside, scenic trails and historic estates where four-legged friends are warmly welcomed. If you’re searching for the best dog friendly walks and attractions, we’ve rounded up some of the top spots where you and your pup can enjoy an unforgettable day out. From tranquil reservoirs to ancient stone circles, there’s an adventure waiting for every wagging tail. Read on to pick your paw-fect dog friendly day out in Derbyshire!
Five Pits Trail
A fantastic choice for a leisurely stroll, the Five Pits Trail offers a scenic, flat walk through the heart of North East Derbyshire. Following the former Great Central Railway, this 5.5-mile trail stretches from Grassmoor Country Park to Tibshelf Ponds, taking you through picturesque countryside and atmospheric woodlands. It’s perfect for all fitness levels and ideal for those who love a peaceful, traffic-free route.
Distance: 5.5 miles
Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Start: Grassmoor Country Park, Chesterfield, S42 5BP
Top Tip: Bring water for you and your pup, especially on warm days.
Linacre Reservoirs
Nestled in ancient woodlands, Linacre Reservoirs offer a beautiful setting for dog walks. The three interconnected reservoirs create a haven for wildlife, making it a tranquil retreat where you and your dog can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. There are several circular routes available, with paths winding through peaceful forests and alongside the water’s edge.
Distance: Up to 3 miles
Time: 1-2 hours
Start: Linacre Reservoirs Car Park, Cutthorpe, Chesterfield, S42 7JW
Top Tip: Paths can get muddy after rain, so check the forecast and wear appropriate footwear.
Renishaw Hall & Gardens
If you love grand estates and beautifully designed gardens, Renishaw Hall is a must-visit. With elegant Italianate gardens, flower-filled borders and serene lakes, it’s a fantastic place to explore with your pooch. While dogs must stay on leads, they are welcome to roam the formal gardens, and you can enjoy a refreshment stop in the café courtyard.
Distance: Various walking routes available
Time: Flexible, from an hour to a half-day
Start: Renishaw Hall Car Park, Renishaw, S21 3WB
Top Tip: Entrance fees apply. Check seasonal opening times before visiting.
Barbrook Stone Circles
For a walk with a mystical touch, explore the ancient Barbrook Stone Circles. Hidden among the wild moorlands between Big Moor and Ramsley Moor, these fascinating Bronze Age relics make for a truly magical adventure. Barbrook I is the most prominent, but keep an eye out for other stone formations and burial cairns along the route.
Distance: Approximately 2 miles round trip
Time: Around 1.5 to 2 hours
Start: Shillito Wood Car Park, Dronfield, S18 7WJ
Top Tip: Keep dogs on a lead, especially during nesting season (March to August). The terrain can be uneven and boggy, so sturdy footwear is a must.
Ogston Reservoir
Ogston Reservoir is a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. While dogs aren’t permitted in the main nature reserve, there are plenty of scenic footpaths surrounding the reservoir where you can enjoy a quiet countryside walk. Expect to see a variety of birds, especially during the winter months when thousands of wildfowl gather here.
Distance: Various routes available
Time: 1-2 hours
Start: Ogston Reservoir Car Park, nr Brackenfield, DE55 6FN
Top Tip: Keep dogs on a lead near wildlife and livestock, and don’t forget binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching.
Sutton Scarsdale Hall
A striking 18th-century ruin with panoramic countryside views, Sutton Scarsdale Hall is a peaceful spot for a stroll with your dog. While the once-grand Georgian mansion stands roofless, its dramatic remains offer a glimpse into its opulent past. The surrounding open grounds provide a scenic and quiet walking experience, perfect for those seeking a less crowded alternative to busier heritage sites.
Distance: Short, leisurely walk around the ruins
Time: 30 minutes to an hour
Start: Sutton Scarsdale Hall Car Park, Sutton Scarsdale, S44 5UR
Top Tip: Free to visit and ideal for a quick stop, but bring sturdy shoes if exploring the uneven terrain.
Chatsworth
One of the most iconic estates in the UK, Chatsworth offers a dream day out for dogs and their owners. The vast 105-acre gardens and surrounding parkland provide endless walking opportunities, from manicured landscapes to open countryside. Dogs must be kept on a lead, but they’ll love the freedom of exploring the stunning grounds.
Distance: Various walking routes available
Time: Flexible, from a couple of hours to a full day
Start: Chatsworth House Car Park, Bakewell, DE45 1PP
Top Tip: Entrance fees apply, and there’s plenty to see, so plan for a full day if you want to make the most of it.
Explore Ashover
Ashover is one of Derbyshire’s prettiest villages, offering a fantastic 4.5-mile circular walk that takes in breathtaking countryside, open fields and ancient woodlands. Along the way, you’ll pass Ashover Rock (The Fabrick), a fascinating Cold War relic, and enjoy sweeping views of Ogston Reservoir. This scenic route combines gentle paths with a few steeper inclines, making it a rewarding adventure for walkers of all abilities.
Distance: 4.5 miles
Time: 2-3 hours
Start: Free parking at Ashover Cricket Club, Milken Lane, Chesterfield, S45 0AB
Top Tip: The terrain can be uneven, so wear sturdy footwear. The local pubs are perfect for a post-walk refreshment.
Order your Dog Friendly Guide to North East Derbyshire for even more fantastic walks, pubs and attractions where your furry friend is welcome.
