The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Ault Hucknall

There are over 15 dog-friendly hiking trails around Ault Hucknall, all rated as easy, making them accessible for most dogs and their owners.

Yes, all the dog-friendly routes in this guide are rated as easy. For example, the Millers Pond, Hardwick Park – Lake at Hardwick Hall loop is a gentle 2.9 km walk perfect for a leisurely stroll with your dog.

Absolutely. Many of the trails are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Hardwick Inn – Hardwick Old Hall loop is a great example, offering a 6.3 km circular route through the scenic Hardwick Estate.

You can expect diverse scenery, from picturesque woodlands and open meadows to historical parkland. The trails often traverse the vast 2,500-acre Hardwick Hall estate, offering views of the magnificent Elizabethan hall and its surrounding natural beauty.

Yes, many trails pass by significant historical sites. You'll often encounter Hardwick Hall and Hardwick Old Hall. The village of Ault Hucknall itself is home to St. John the Baptist Church, the burial place of philosopher Thomas Hobbes, which can be integrated into walks.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful historical scenery, and the suitability of the trails for walking with dogs.

While all routes are rated easy, some offer a longer distance. The Hardwick Inn – Millers Pond, Hardwick Park loop is one of the longer options at 7.3 km, providing a good stretch for you and your dog.

Many trails start from areas with designated parking, particularly around Hardwick Hall. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for parking information at the trailhead you choose.

All the easy-rated trails are suitable for families. The shorter loops, such as the View of Hardwick Hall and Lake – Hardwick Old Hall loop (4.2 km), are great for families with younger children and dogs, offering manageable distances and interesting sights.

Ault Hucknall offers pleasant hiking conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer is great for longer daylight hours. Winter walks can be charming, but always check local weather conditions.

The landscape is characterized by its geological diversity, including Magnesian Limestone escarpments. You'll walk through varied terrains, from woodlands to open fields, and may encounter ponds and lakes within the Hardwick Estate, such as Millers Pond.