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A close up of a panting dog sat down and being stroked by its owners, taken in the garden at Hanbury Hall and Gardens, Worcestershire
Your four legged friends are welcome | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Dog-friendly places in Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

There's nothing better than bringing your four-legged friend with you on a day out – they are part of the family after all. Take a look at which places are perfect for their next walkies.

Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire's places to walk your dog

Find all the best spots for adventures outdoors together.

Dunstable Downs 

From Dunstable Downs, take in the view with your dog. In one direction you’ve got Bison Hill and Whipsnade Tree Cathedral, in the other Pascombe Pit and Five Knolls burial mounds.

A family walking their dog at Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate

Hatfield Forest 

Dogs are welcome in all parts of Hatfield Forest except a small dog-free zone between the Shell House and Decoy Lake. We’ll also wish you bone appétit at the Forest Café.

Dog walking on the Holnicote Estate, Somerset

Ashridge Estate 

Ashridge is a popular place for dog walkers, with several waymarked trails to choose from and all the facilities you need.

Winter dog walk at Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire

Danbury Commons & Blakes Wood 

Enjoy views over the Essex countryside and peaceful spots within Danbury Common and Blake’s Wood. A quieter place for a dog walk that can offer shelter when you need it.

Couple walking with their dog on Danbury Common, Essex

Whipsnade Tree Cathedral 

Dogs are welcome to explore Whipsnade Tree Cathedral. Read more to find out how to make the most of your visit with your four-legged friend.

Dogs at Brimham Rocks, Yorkshire

Top tips when visiting with your dog

Visiting National Trust places with your dog 

If you’re bringing your dog(s) to the places we care for, you'll find information on our Canine Code and pawprint rating system, created in partnership with Forthglade, to help plan your visit.

A visitor with their dog leaving the Muddy Paws café at Lyme Park, Cheshire

Follow the Countryside Code 

Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.

A wild flower meadow with oxeye daisies and red clover on a summer's day

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