Kielder Forest
scenic trails and breathtaking Northumberland landscapes.
Kielder, Hexham, Northumberland, NE48 1ER
Visit WebsiteKielder Forest is a vast and unspoiled wilderness in Northumberland, offering miles of scenic trails, tranquil lakes and incredible wildlife spotting opportunities. With plenty of dog friendly routes and open spaces to explore, it’s the perfect adventure for you and your four-legged friend.
- Children Welcome
- Multiple Dogs Allowed
- Parking
- Rural Walks
Good to know
Overview
There’s a dog walk for everyone at Kielder Forest in Northumberland. England’s largest forest spans over 6,000 hectares (that’s the size of nearly 10,000 football pitches), and has a multitude of walking trails of varying lengths and difficulties.
Take a gentle stroll along the Lakeside Way to the Bull Crag Peninsula, find the enchanting waterfall at Hindhope Linn, or for more of a challenge climb up Deadwater Fell (not the one from the TV show) for far reaching views over the forest below. In 2025 the Forestry Commission launched a new dog friendly trail with activities to do with your dog along the way – why not give it a try? Alternatively, dogs are welcome to join you on the Osprey ferry for a scenic cruise on Kielder Water.
As well as being a popular spot for outdoor lovers and mountain bikers, the forest is an important haven for some of Britain’s rarest species. Breeding Ospreys visit in the summer, and Kielder is also home to England’s most important Red Squirrel population. Every year the Northumberland Wildlife Trust runs ‘Osprey Watch’ events at Tower Knowe, with an interpretation cabin across the water from one of the nests, with volunteers on hand to answer any questions.
For The Dogs
Bring leads, poop bags, treats and a tick hook.
Opening Hours
Daylight is recommended for walks. You’ll find the café, information point and forest drive hours on the Forestry England website.
Parking
Kielder Castle car park (pay & display), NE48 1EP.
The Area
Kielder Forest occupies a rather underrated spot in the West of Northumberland. Visitors here are much fewer in number than on the county’s coast, but if you know where to go, this is the perfect choice for a dog friendly holiday. Hareshaw Linn is surely Northumberland’s most impressive waterfall, while Hadrian’s Wall offers multiple dog friendly days out: we’d recommend the Roman forts at Chesters and Housesteads – as well as having oodles of fascinating history, Housteads is a good jumping off point for longer walks along Hadrian’s Wall.
For more walks, pubs and places to stay, see our guide to dog friendly Northumberland.
