We’ve tried and tested some of the best dog walks in Stoke on Trent, from picturesque parks, beautiful lakes, and outdoor woodland walks.
We have chosen these dog walks in Stoke on Trent for you to enjoy. Stoke on Trent might be famous for its potteries and industry but did you know it has some beautiful parks, lakes and areas of woodland you can explore with your four-legged friend?
If you’re searching for the best dog walks in Stoke-on-Trent that both you and your dog will enjoy, look no further. We have selected a number of top dog walks for you to explore.
1. Barlaston Downs
If you can’t decide on a long or short walk but fancy a wander through woodland, Barlaston Downs is the perfect location for dog walks in Stoke on Trent.
It boasts plenty of different length routes to choose from and a rock pillar that stands at the highest point and shows the local landmarks that can be seen on a clear day such as The Long Mynd, Mow Cop Castle, the Wrekin, and the Clee Hills.
Barlaston Downs has a lovely stream that runs the length of the Downs and attracts beautiful wildlife throughout the year. If you’re lucky you might see the bright blue of a kingfisher!
During spring to autumn, a small herd of friendly cattle grazes much of Downs Banks. They are helping to restore the heath and revive the traditional farming methods that have shaped this landscape for hundreds of years. Please be mindful of the cattle when walking your dog. Cattle can easily get scared when confronted by dogs, especially when running off their leads.
There are two main car parks at Barlaston Downs. One is a larger one, which can get busy during the summer and on weekends. Additionally, there is a smaller parking area near the stream with space for about 6-8 cars.
Directions: How to get there.
2. Park Hall Country Park
Park Hall Country Park is a popular 138.2-hectare site that offers extensive views over Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Moorlands farmland it is a stunning vast area perfect for dog walks through nature.
It features woodland, lakes, sandstone canyons, heath-land, and for keen anglers, it even has fishing facilities. Park Hall Country Park is one of Stoke-on-Trent’s vital natural sites as it was declared as Stoke-on-Trent’s only National Nature Reserve in 2002.
The sandstone canyons are a site of special scientific interest for their geology. Making this a super interesting place to explore on your dog walk.
Directions: How to get there.
3. Dimmingsdale
Dimmingsdale Valley is a true hidden gem and is actually a site of ecological and historical importance in the heart of Staffordshire, located between Alton and Oakamoor.
A lovely place for a dog walk, with magnificent drives built by the Earl of Shrewsbury which has been incorporated into the Valley walk. Tumbling hills and sharp sandstone outcrops make a visit to this woodland enjoyable at any time of the year.
While you are there pop into the Ramblers Retreat, a family-run country tearoom and restaurant nestled in Dimmingsdale, Alton in the heart of the beautiful Churnet Valley.
Whether you chose to eat in their cosy beamed snug, airy garden room or alfresco in their beautiful gardens overlooking the woodland, you’ll find the atmosphere warm and welcoming for both yourself and your dog.
Directions: How to get there.
4. Knypersley Reservoir, Greenway Bank Country Park
Greenway Bank Country Park is a lovely old estate parkland that retains many of the original and interesting historical features with 114 acres of beautiful woodland walks around the Serpentine Lake and Knypersley reservoir.
A great place for budding photographers as it has lots of lovely photo opportunities from a little waterfall to a castle ruin. For children, there is an adventure play area adjacent to the visitor centre. We love this circular route, the perfect spot for a dog walk in Stoke on Trent.
Directions: How to get there
5. Westport Lake
Westport Lake is created alongside the Trent and Mersey Canal it is Stoke-on-Trent’s largest expanse of water and consists of two lakes, and a nature reserve.
It has come a seriously long way since its initial development as a pleasure resort by a local farmer around 1890 after that it then descended into a wasteland until becoming one of Stoke’s first regeneration projects in 1986. Now it is a serene and picturesque place for a walk! Watch out for the swans though…
Why not visit the Westport Lake Visitor Centre which is perfectly situated on the edge of Westport Lake, a great spot for bird-watching and watching the world go by.
It boasts a welcoming cafe with panoramic views of the water. It is the perfect place to visit for families, walkers and nature lovers.
Directions: How to get there.
6. Trent And Mersey Canal
You’ll probably be surprised to know that there is a lot to see along the Trent and Mersey Canal from the magnificent Anderton Boat Lift through to the major waterway junction at Trent Lock.
The towpath creates a gorgeous green corridor through Stoke-on-Trent, as well as offering up a perfect dog walking route, there’s lots of wildlife to spot too.
The Trent and Mersey Canal was engineered by James Brindley. Interestingly, this was the country’s first long-distance canal. It is full of interesting features that are a reflection of its history. Including, Harecastle Tunnel, and the lengthy lock flight known as Heartbreak Hill.
One of our favourite dog walks starts at the Plume of Feathers by the railway crossing in Barlaston, it is an easy but interesting circular walk so you’ll finish back at this lovely, super dog-friendly pub. Full route details available here.
Directions: How to get there.
7. Trentham Gardens Lakeside Walk
Our final choice is Trentham Gardens lakeside walk which is a paid route but entirely worth it. Dogs are allowed on this walk but must be well behaved and kept on a lead here. The Lakeside Walk is 2.3 miles and usually takes about an hour to walk at a leisurely pace.
Features in the park include a Floral Labyrinth, Secret Garden, Japanese Garden and Italian Gardens. Keep your eyes peeled as you walk around this beautiful mile-long lakeside walk, and through the woodland, maze and gardens where the Fairies at Trentham live. As well as fairy sculptures, spot wood carvings along the way.
Find more information and book tickets here.
Directions: How to get there.
Love walking? These walks might interest you:
- The best Wirral walks
- Easy Lake District walks for beginners
- UK Waterfalls you must visit
- Hanchurch Woods walks
We hope we have inspired you to take your furry friend on one of these walks in Stoke-on-Trent! Let us know if you’ve visited any in the comments below.
