Whether you’re seeking a steady stroll or an adventurous hike, the UK’s lakes offer some of the best walkies in autumn, when the golden landscapes are reflected in glassy waters and you can lap up the peace and quiet while your four-legged friend snuffles through the fallen leaves.
So, when the beaches are blustery and the peaks too chilly and challenging, amble into autumn colours with your dog at these lovely lakes around the UK.
Derwentwater, Lake District, Cumbria
One of our top places to visit with the dog in autumn, the Lake District is brimming with beautiful places to explore with your pack. Lead them to Derwentwater, in the heart of the lakeland scenery, where you can enjoy a 10km loop under a canvas of reds, oranges and yellows, along lakeshore paths and forest tracks that are perfect for paws. If you want to cool off en route, there are plenty of places where you and your canine companion can leap from the crunchy, leaf-littered trails into the crisp, cool water.
Hatchet Pond, New Forest, Hampshire
One of the most glorious landscapes in the South of England in its autumn cloak, the New Forest is crisscrossed by wonderful walkies that you and your dog can enjoy together. An easy one to follow is the 1.9km route around Hatchet Pond – the largest area of fresh water in the New Forest, which is located just outside the village of Beaulieu. While the village is home to the cosy dog-friendly pub of Monty’s Inn, the walk is easily accessible for dogs and owners of all sizes and fitness abilities, and you’ll witness the wonders of autumn along with migrating birds soaring above the mirror-like lake.
Loch an Eilein, Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
Tucked away in the Cairngorms, the tranquil Loch an Eilein is home to a level 7km walking trail that beckons dogs and their humans. It’s particularly atmospheric in autumn when the ancient Caledonian pine forest is bathed in ethereal golden light, and there are lots of places to stray from the path and plunge into the loch for a paddle. Enjoy the serenity and make the most of autumn’s colours and cooler temperatures during a dog-friendly stay in Scotland.
Lake Vyrnwy, Powys, Wales
One of our favourite dog walks at any time of year is in the less touristy Powys. Lake Vyrnwy and its surrounding forests are one of the most picturesque spots in the whole of Wales in autumn, when their riot of colour is reflected in the water’s surface. There are plenty of dog-friendly routes where you can strike out on foot and paw, but if you’ve got the time and energy we’d recommend the 12-mile circular that takes you off the beaten track and boasts beautiful views along the way.
Chew Valley Lake, Somerset
If you’re looking for a short walk and don’t mind keeping your dog on a lead, head to the largest artificial lake in the West Country, enveloped by Somerset‘s rolling hills and tranquil countryside. The flat, well-maintained paths are perfect for pups that don’t want to roam far, or fast, as well as buggies and walkers with limited mobility. With many places to pause and picnic, don’t forget your camera to snap stunning shots of the golden-hued landscape and nature reserve reflected in the serene waters.
Roadford Lake, Devon
Come autumn, the Devon countryside encasing Roadford Lake turns into a mosaic of seasonal colour, beckoning you and your dog to roam its shores on walks long and short. One of the largest lakes in the southwest and home to an abundance of wildlife, you’re bound to spot birds, bugs and other resident beasties, whether you take a short stroll or a 13-mile hike. The café serves locally-sourced food all year round, and there’s even a paw wash so dogs can spruce up before a well-deserved treat while exploring the area on a dog-friendly holiday in Devon.
Loch Lomond, Trossachs National Park, Scotland
Another year-round top spot for holidays with your dog, Loch Lomond shines in all its autumn glory with incredible scenery that shimmers under the golden light. Trace part of the West Highland Way along the eastern shore of the loch, where there are plenty of walking trails that are easy to navigate with your hound at your heels, as well as wide open spaces to romp through the leaves and swimming spots where you can dive into the reflections of the fiery foliage.
Cotswold Water Park, Gloucestershire
Home to over 150 lakes and boundless dog-walking terrain, Cotswold Water Park boasts a labyrinth of signposted trails throughout its 40 square miles. Once the peak watersports season of summer is over, autumn brings with it a more peaceful ambience, making it the perfect time to explore the mix of woodland, lakes and meadows bathed in warm, low light. The dog-friendly café means there’s no need to pack snacks for your adventure, and if your pooch is partial to some doggy paddle, there’s no shortage of spots where they can launch into the lakes to cool off. This park alone is worth visiting Gloucestershire for a holiday with your dog.
Rutland Water, Rutland, East Midlands
If you’re looking for a fully-fledged adventure with Fido, set off along the 23-mile circular route around one of the largest man-made lakes in the UK. Once the summer crowds have dispersed and the rich colours of autumn dress the forests and fields around Rutland Water, autumn is a wonderful time for walkies on its shores. And you don’t have to take on the 23-mile challenge – there are plenty of shorter routes to choose from, too. There are also many fabulous dog-friendly retreats in the Rutland area.
Llyn Padarn Circular Walk, Snowdonia, Wales
Whether you prefer an aerial view of this glacially-formed lake in Snowdonia (Eryri National Park), or want a walkies in the woodland with your furry friend, this easy-going 8km circular trek offers plenty of variety. The forest trails glow with the glorious golds of autumn, emerging at incredible viewpoints where you can snap a selfie of you and your pooch with the lake in view, before tracing your way back to the start point via a burbling stream and beautiful lakeside panoramas. This is one of the best of many lake walks to enjoy while on holiday with your dog in Snowdonia..
Book a Dog Friendly Retreat for Autumn
Autumn is one of our favourite times for a dog-friendly holiday in the UK, when the golden hues and fiery foliage light up the landscape and lure you for long walks in the countryside. Browse our collection of dog-friendly cottages close to some of Britain’s most scenic lakes for dog walks.
