The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Great Mitton

There are over 130 dog-friendly hiking trails and walks around Great Mitton, offering a wide variety of options for you and your canine companion. These include 66 easy routes, 57 moderate routes, and 7 more challenging trails.

Yes, Great Mitton offers several easy, circular walks perfect for dogs. One popular option is the Aspinall Arms – Edisford Bridge loop from Great Mitton, which is just over 4 km long and features minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for a relaxed outing.

The terrain around Great Mitton is diverse, ranging from tranquil riverside paths along the Ribble and Hodder to rolling hills within the Ribble Valley and the Forest of Bowland. You'll find a mix of well-maintained paths, ancient drovers' tracks, and some steeper ascents on the higher fells. Many routes offer open fields and woodland sections, providing varied sensory experiences for your dog.

Absolutely. The region is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy panoramic views of the Ribble Valley and the Forest of Bowland from various points. Highlights include the Pendle Hill summit trig point, the Trig point at Longridge Fell summit, and the View of the Forest of Bowland from Jeffrey Hill. Riverside walks also offer sights like the Confluence of the Rivers Calder and Ribble.

For a longer, moderate walk, consider the Edisford Bridge – River Hodder loop from Great Mitton. This route covers over 12 km and offers a good workout with moderate elevation changes, taking you along scenic riverbanks and through the picturesque countryside.

The dog-friendly trails around Great Mitton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1,200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the riverside paths, and the excellent opportunities for dogs to explore safely.

Great Mitton and the surrounding Ribble Valley area are known for their hospitality. Many pubs and cafes in the region are dog-friendly, especially those catering to hikers. It's always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand, but you'll often find welcoming spots where you and your dog can refuel after a walk.

Yes, the area combines natural beauty with rich history. While on your dog walks, you can explore ancient sites such as All Hallows Church, known as one of the finest old churches in northern England, and Great Mitton Hall, a medieval manor house. The churchyard offers lovely views down to the River Ribble with Pendle Hill in the background.

Great Mitton is beautiful year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days, but be mindful of warmer temperatures for your dog. Winter can be picturesque, but some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Many trails in the area follow the River Ribble, including sections of the long-distance Ribble Way. The Carved Wooden Chair – Edisford Bridge loop from Great Mitton is an excellent option that takes you along the river, offering scenic views and opportunities for your dog to enjoy the riverside environment.

When hiking with your dog in the Forest of Bowland AONB, be aware that you may encounter livestock, especially sheep. It's crucial to keep your dog under close control, ideally on a lead, particularly during lambing season. Always follow the Countryside Code, clean up after your dog, and respect wildlife and other trail users.