10 Dog-Friendly Walks in the Peak District
Did you know there are no sharp peaks in the Peak District? The name is thought to come from the Pecsaetan—an Anglo-Saxon tribe that settled here over 1,000 years ago. But you’re probably not here for trivia—you’re here to discover the best dog-friendly walks in this stunning national park, whether you’re preparing for a house-sitting assignment with FurPetVo or planning a UK walking holiday with your four-legged companion.
If you’re house sitting elsewhere soon, don’t miss our curated guides to dog walks in Cornwall and the best dog walks in Kent. And while breathtaking scenery is always a bonus, remember that how often you walk your dog—and how well you prepare—matters just as much as the view. Terrain can be challenging for some dogs, so always assess your pup’s fitness, bring water and poo bags, and check local bylaws before heading out.
Top 10 Dog-Friendly Peak District Walks
- Baslow Edge to Curbar Gap and back
- Stoney Middleton to Eyam Loop
- Jacob’s Ladder to Kinder Scout Low
- Back Forest & Lud’s Church
- Linacre Reservoir
- Langsett
- Monsal Trail
- Thor’s Cave
- Stanage Edge
- Chatsworth House
Best Circular Peak District Dog Walks
If you prefer a round-trip route—or are parking and want to avoid backtracking—a circular trail is ideal. Here are two standout options:
Baslow Edge to Curbar Gap and Back
Park on School Lane near Bar Road and begin walking up Bar Road, which becomes a footpath winding into steep woodland—perfect for an energetic pup. After passing through a gate, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping valley views and a glimpse of Chatsworth House.
Continue uphill and take the right fork toward Wellington’s Monument (commemorating the Duke of Wellington’s victory at Waterloo). From there, turn toward the Eagle Stone and follow the path to Curbar Gap—or stroll along the top of Baslow Edge for even more dramatic vistas.
On weekends or bank holidays, stop at the Curbar Gap car park for Jolly’s van: it serves drinks, cakes, and homemade treats for dogs. Once refreshed, head down Clodhall Lane toward Curbar village. Take either the left-hand path or continue slightly further and choose the right-hand path before the road bends—this leads back to Bar Road and your car.
- Estimated time: 2 hours
- Distance: 4 miles
- Nearby parking: School Lane near Bar Road
Stoney Middleton to Eyam Loop
This shorter but scenic Derbyshire ramble starts at Saint Martin’s Church in Stoney Middleton. After walking up the bank, turn right and take the left fork toward Bottom Cliff. Follow the track into Eyam—a historic “plague village” rich with poignant stories.
After exploring Eyam’s history, walk down the tree-lined road beside the barriers. Look back for sweeping views of Curbar and Froggatt Edges. Then descend the steep, stony track to your right—it leads directly back to Saint Martin’s Church.
- Estimated time: 1 hour
- Distance: 2.3 miles
- Nearby parking: Saint Martin’s Church, Stoney Middleton
A Challenging Peak District Dog Walk
For experienced hikers and highly trained, energetic dogs with excellent recall, Jacob’s Ladder to Kinder Scout Low offers one of the most rewarding—and demanding—dog-friendly hikes in the region.
Jacob’s Ladder to Kinder Scout Low
This strenuous route summits Kinder Scout at 636 metres above sea level and follows part of the iconic Pennine Way. Start at Edale Station, pick up the trail near the Old Nag’s Head pub, and begin the steady, steep ascent.
About halfway up, you’ll reach Jacob’s Ladder—a historic set of stone steps carved into the hillside. Though challenging, the climb delivers unforgettable moorland panoramas and open space for your dog to explore safely off-lead—if well-trained and under close supervision.
