A Dog Friendly Weekend in North East Derbyshire

Day One: Walks, Pubs & Wagging Tails

Morning: Arrive & Stretch Those Legs

First stop: Barbrook Stone Circles. This ancient site is pure magic. Moorland stretching as far as the eye can see, mysterious standing stones and plenty of space for your pup to run, sniff and generally live their best life. It’s an atmospheric walk that feels like a proper adventure, perfect for blowing off the cobwebs after your journey.

Lunch: A Dog Friendly Feast

After your morning exploration, head to The Devonshire Arms in Middle Handley. This characterful village pub offers a warm and cosy atmosphere, set amidst picturesque countryside. Both you and your canine companion will feel right at home here. Enjoy a delicious meal in the bar area, where the menu from The Stag Restaurant is also available, or dine outside in one of the two seating areas during warmer days. It’s the perfect spot to relax and refuel before your next adventure. 

Top tip: The social media stars amongst you will love the bright red phone box opposite the pub for a photo opportunity.

Afternoon: A Stroll Through History

For an afternoon ramble, visit Renishaw Hall and Gardens. While the grand old hall is humans-only, the gorgeous gardens and parkland are open to four-legged visitors. Paws will love padding along the leafy pathways while their humans admire the flowers and fountains. Head down to the lakes for a longer walk and pop to the pooch-welcoming café for a post-walk piece of cake and a doggy treat. Win-win.

Evening: A Cosy Stay at The Peak Edge Hotel

After a day of adventures, check in to The Peak Edge Hotel, where both two and four-legged guests are welcomed with open arms. Sink into a comfy bed while your pup sprawls out after a hard day’s exploring. The onsite restaurant, The Red Lion, serves up top-notch food and dogs are welcome to snooze in the bar while you tuck in.

Top tip: Ring ahead to secure one of the cosy corners if you have a reactive dog.

Day Two: Seeing the Sights & Savouring the Flavours

Morning: A Reservoir Ramble

Start the day with a gentle walk around Linacre Reservoirs, where three sparkling reservoirs are wrapped in beautiful woodland. It’s the kind of place where time slows down … just you, your dog and the sound of birdsong as you meander through the trees.

Top tip: Bring some change for the car park as card payment doesn’t always work.

Brunch: Coffee & Canine Friendly Treats

For a caffeine fix and a bite to eat, stop by Host Coffee in Clay Cross. This charming café is known for its dogfriendly atmosphere, often providing treats for your furry friend. Enjoy a delicious coffee and perhaps a slice of their renowned gluten-free Victoria sandwich while your pup relaxes by your side. ​

Afternoon: One Last Stroll & a Final Stop

Before heading home, stretch your legs along the Five Pits Trail, a relaxed route that follows an old railway line. It’s a great way to round off the weekend, with wide open views, woodlands to sniff through, and plenty of space to wander at your own pace.

If you have time, consider visiting Amber Valley Vineyard, although do check their current opening hours and what events are on before making the trip. A little wine tour is a wonderful way to conclude your Derbyshire adventure.​

A Weekend to Remember

From epic walks to dog friendly pubs and stays that make both humans and hounds feel right at home, North East Derbyshire is the ultimate spot for a weekend away with your pup. Whether you’re trekking across ancient landscapes, cosying up in country inns or just watching your dog joyfully bound through the countryside, this is one trip you won’t forget in a hurry.