Are you planning to take your pup with you to the Cotswolds? We’ve rounded up some of the best dog-friendly walks in the Cotswolds.
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The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is located in south-central and southwest England. The area spans parts of six counties: Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, Somerset and Worcestershire.
This beautiful area is one of the most beloved UK destinations for dog owners. With rolling hills, chocolate-box villages, peaceful woodlands and endless footpaths, it’s the perfect place to stretch those paws and soak up some of the most picturesque countryside in England.
Whether you’re choosing dog friendly holiday cottages in the Cotswolds or staying in a luxury Cotswolds hotel in a bustling market town, you’ll never be short of unforgettable walking routes.
So, I’ve rounded up some of the very best dog-friendly walks in the Cotswolds. These routes combine stunning scenery with easy-to-navigate trails and offer plenty of places for your dog to sniff, splash and explore.
Cleeve Hill and Common
Cleeve Hill is the highest point in the Cotswolds, rising to 330m. The circular route across Cleeve Common spans limestone grassland, open hilltops and woodland edges. It offers breathtaking views across Cheltenham, the Vale of Evesham and even into Wales on a clear day.
The wide-open common land is perfect for energetic dogs with a lot of energy to burn off, but do be mindful of grazing sheep and cattle.
After exploring the hillside, you can return to one of the nearby pubs, many of which welcome dogs with treats and water bowls. This is a favourite walk for guests staying in nearby dog friendly holiday cottages who want to make the most of the spectacular landscape.
The path can be moderate in fitness demand—some ups and downs—so allowing extra time helps.
Tip: The car park on Cleeve Common (near the golf club) is a good starting point. Make sure your dog is comfortable with open terrain and check for any local restrictions due to grazing animals or seasonal wildlife.
- Location: Cheltenham
- Distance: Various circular routes (1–6 miles)
- Difficulty: Moderate
Broadway Tower Circular Walk
For many visitors staying in the Cotswolds, this is a must-do walk combining classic Cotswold charm and scenic beauty with historic atmosphere.
Starting in the chocolate-box village of Broadway, the trail climbs gently towards Broadway Tower before looping back. This iconic Cotswold landmark offers sweeping views across up to 16 counties on a clear day, and there’s a café nearby where you and your dog can rest your feet.
Your dog will love the variety here: woodland scents, wide grassy spaces and plenty of interesting trails around the Tower and its deer park.
There’s a small admission fee for the Broadway Tower Country Park, which you can pay online.
Tip: Some paths go through fields or farm tracks, so keep an eye on livestock and be prepared to put your dog on a lead if needed.
- Location: Broadway
- Distance: approx. 4 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
Bourton-on-the-Water to Lower Slaughter
This has to be one of the prettiest dog-friendly walks in the Cotswolds!
The gentle riverside route follows the River Windrush from the bustling centre of Bourton to the picturesque village of Lower Slaughter.
Shallower sections of the river are perfect for dogs who love a paddle, and the level footpath is ideal for older dogs, families, or anyone looking for something light and relaxing. Sections of the route include quiet country roads, so keep your dog close when you’re near any traffic.
This dog-friendly Cotswold walk is even better when you pair it with a stop at one of Bourton’s dog-friendly tea rooms.
Tip: Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most popular Cotswolds villages and can get very busy in peak season. Aim to arrive early if you want to enjoy some peace.
- Location: Bourton-on-the-Water
- Distance: 5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
Painswick Beacon Loop
Painswick is known as “The Queen of the Cotswolds” for its historical architecture and stunning Gloucestershire.
This walk starts with a climb up Painswick Beacon to enjoy the panoramic views over the Severn Vale, Forest of Dean and Black Mountains. The peaceful woodland trails, varied terrain and rolling hills make for excellent off-grid exploring.
You can also extend your walk through the Slad Valley, famed as the childhood home of author Laurie Lee and mentioned in ‘Cider with Rosie’.
This walk is especially popular with walkers who enjoy quieter routes away from the busier tourist spots. However, the route passes near the golf course, so keeping your dog under control is advised, especially where golfers are present.
Tip: Make sure you keep water for your dog, as the ridge is exposed and can get windy.
- Location: Painswick
- Distance: 4–6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
The Rollright Stones Trail
If you’re after a walk that blends history and stunning scenery, the Rollright Stones are a magical option. This route is a brilliant walk for those staying in northern Cotswolds dog-friendly cottages.
The circular route takes you through fields and the hamlet of Little Rollright to visit three ancient stone monuments: the King’s Men stone circle, the Whispering Knights burial chamber and the King Stone. There’s a small entrance fee to access the stones, which you can pay online or use the honesty box.
Dogs enjoy the open fields and gentle paths, while owners appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and remarkable sense of heritage. You’ll need walking boots or shoes for this trail, as the terrain varies and can get pretty muddy.
Tip: Dogs on a lead are permitted around the ancient megalithic site of the Rollright Stones, though they are not allowed inside certain stone circles.
- Location: Long Compton / Chipping Norton
- Distance: 5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
Cotswold Lakes Trails
If your dog loves to cool off with a dip during their walk, they’ll love the Cotswold Lakes wetland landscape. With 42 square miles of varied terrain, 180+ lakes and miles of flat, well-marked footpaths, you can choose shorter or longer loops to suit your dog’s stamina and your schedule.
The lakeside trails are peaceful, wildlife-rich and perfect for gentle walks. Many lakes have designated dog swimming areas, but check local rules before you set off. Some lakes may have sensitive wildlife areas or require dogs to be on leads, so check the signage as you walk.
There’s no single entrance fee for the whole Cotswold Lakes area, but individual locations and activities may charge. For example, you may have to pay for parking at a country park or an admission fee for activities.
Tip: Bring drinking water and a towel for your dog. Not all lakes are safe for a dip, so stick to the ones which are specifically designated as safe for water activities.
- Location: Near Cirencester
- Distance: 2–10 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
Minchinhampton and Rodborough Commons
Maintained by the National Trust, Minchinhampton and Rodborough Commons boast some of the best locations for off-lead walking in the Cotswolds.
The commons offer huge open spaces, incredible views across the Stroud valleys and miles of intersecting footpaths. They’re also brilliant for sunrise strolls if you’re staying in a nearby dog-friendly holiday cottage.
For dog-walkers, the benefits include wide open space, freedom to explore and the combination of hilltop and gentle slopes. However, cattle and ponies graze on the commons, so keeping your dog under close control around livestock is essential.
Tip: Choose quieter times for a calmer experience, bring a lead for when near animals, and check the weather before you head out. The exposed hilltops can be windy or muddy.
- Location: Stroud
- Distance: Flexible
- Difficulty: Easy
Minster Lovell and River Windrush
This picturesque walk starts in the village of Minster Lovell, home to thatched cottages, peaceful lanes and the atmospheric medieval ruins of Minster Lovell Hall. This 15th-century manor house is under the care of English Heritage and admission to the site is free of charge.
From here you follow riverside paths along the Windrush, passing meadows, willow trees and gently undulating fields. The terrain is generally flat and scenic, making it ideal for dogs who enjoy steady, gentle walking with lots of sniffing opportunities along the riverbank.
The route feels wonderfully rural despite being close to Witney, and you can tailor the distance depending on how much energy your dog has. Many walkers loop past the ruins, explore the river’s edge and return via meadow paths.
Livestock may appear in some fields later in the year, so keep your dog on a lead when needed.
Tip: Bring a towel if your dog loves water — the Windrush is very tempting for paddlers. The riverside can also get muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear for you is also handy.
- Location: Near Witney
- Distance: 3–6 miles (varied options)
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Make the Most of Your Dog-Friendly Cotswolds Getaway
Whether you’re exploring historic ruins, wandering through wildflower meadows, or strolling beside peaceful rivers, the Cotswolds offers dog walks that will stay with you long after you leave.
Choosing to stay in dog-friendly holiday cottages lets you enjoy these walks at your own pace: no rigid schedules, no restrictions and all the comfort of a home-from-home environment. Many cottages offer secure gardens, dog welcome packs, nearby footpath access and cosy living spaces to relax in after a muddy adventure.