Best no dogs hiking trails in England
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Best no dogs hiking trails in England

Looking for a peaceful hike without four-legged companions? These no-dog trails are perfect for those who prefer their hikes with just human company and quiet nature.

Here are some great trails to explore in England.

Most popular trails


Reviews for no dogs hiking trails in England

Wyatt Mayert CPA avatar

Walthamstow Wetlands Loop

StriderCaveexplorer20 · reviewed 6 months ago

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Vashti Treutel avatar

River Pang

SierraAlpinist56 · reviewed 9 months ago

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Phil Stapleton avatar

Elvaston Castle Country Park and Local Nature Reserve Walk

PhilS · reviewed 3 months ago

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Consuela Hayes avatar

Potteric Carr Nature Reserve

SummithawkHighlander69 · reviewed 10 months ago

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Big Mal avatar

River Shep and RSPB Fowlmere Nature Reserve

bigmalky · reviewed 4 months ago

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The walk begins at the Green Man pub at Frog End Shepreth. You start by walking up a path in a field towards the river Shep, it takes around 20 minutes to get to the reserve, they have a pay and display car park, so you can miss that part of the hike if you want There is a lot of wildlife including barn owls, moorhens, stork, and ducks, I heard a woodpecker, plus there were lots of birds migrating back to the UK... Other wildlife included, deer, rabbits, and trout, I saw lots of badger tracks in the mud. Be aware that cycling and dogs are not allowed in the reserve. There are three hides to look in on with a whole array of birds on show... This is a great afternoon outing and comes highly recommended.


Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in England

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.


Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).


Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).


Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).


Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).


What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.