Pooch-Friendly in the Peak District: Our 2-Day Itinerary

Taking your dog to the Peak District? With endless trails, welcoming pubs, and surprisingly dog-friendly attractions, it's the perfect pet-friendly getaway. Here's our simple 2-day itinerary to help you make the most of it.  

Day 1: Castles, Caverns, and Classic Views in the Hope Valley

Morning: Start your weekend with one of the most iconic walks in the Peak District: Mam Tor, the "Shivering Mountain". The most popular route is a manageable 3-mile circular walk from the National Trust car park at Mam Nick. A well-paved stone path leads to the summit, making it accessible for most families and rewarding you with breathtaking 360-degree views. Due to grazing sheep, dogs must be kept on a short lead at all times on this route. Afternoon: After your walk, head down into the charming village of Castleton. First, explore the dramatic hilltop ruins of Peveril Castle. This English Heritage site welcomes well-behaved dogs on leads throughout its grounds, offering another fantastic vantage point over the valley. Afterwards, prepare for a unique subterranean adventure. In a rare treat for dog owners, all four of Castleton's famous show caverns (Peak Cavern, Speedwell Cavern, Treak Cliff Cavern and Blue John Cavern) allow dogs on leads to join you on the tour, so you can discover the incredible mineral formations together. Evening: All that exploring deserves a reward. Settle in for a well-earned dinner at a traditional village pub. The Castle Hotel in the heart of Castleton is a great choice, offering a welcoming atmosphere and dog-friendly spaces. “Mam Tor” by JayTeaUK, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Day 2: Stately Gardens and Riverside Strolls near Bakewell

Morning: Enjoy grandeur and gentle strolls with a visit to the magnificent Chatsworth Estate. While dogs can't explore the historic house interior, well-behaved dogs on leads are permitted throughout the stunning 105-acre formal garden and the wider 1,000-acre parkland, giving you miles of beautiful paths to explore together. It's always a good idea to pre-book your tickets online to guarantee entry and secure free parking. Afternoon: After a morning of splendour, take a short drive to the charming market town of Bakewell. It's the perfect place to unwind with a gentle and accessible walk along the banks of the River Wye, a delight for dogs and owners alike. Once you've worked up an appetite, it would be a crime to leave without treating the humans to a taste of the town's famous creation, an authentic Bakewell Pudding from a historic establishment like The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop. Evening: Finish up with another hearty meal at a classic country pub. The Wheatsheaf in Bakewell is an award-winning dog-friendly pub, making it the ideal spot to relax and refuel before you head home. The perfect base for your adventure is key. If you're already local and want to share your slice of the peak district with others, for owners, we offer expert Peak District property management services to help you welcome guests, paws and all. “Chatsworth House and gardens” by kaysgeog, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 From the epic views atop Mam Tor to the unique experience of exploring a cavern with your dog, the Peak District is packed with adventures for the whole family. Finishing a day of exploring historic castles and grand estates with a relaxing meal in a cosy, dog-friendly pub is what a UK staycation is all about. This itinerary is just a taste of what's on offer. Ready to explore? Find the perfect pet-friendly holiday rental in the Peak District for your next adventure.