Skip to content
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.

A family walking their dog at Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate
Article
Article

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.

Dog walking on the Holnicote Estate, Somerset
Article
Article

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.

Winter dog walk at Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire
Article
Article

Ashridge Estate 

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

Couple walking with their dog on Danbury Common, Essex
Article
Article

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.

Dogs at Brimham Rocks, Yorkshire
Article
Article

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.

Top tips when visiting with your dog

Two people leaning against a wall, with a fluffy golden-brown dog looking at a packet of treats
Article
Article

Visiting National Trust places with your dog 

If you’re bringing your dog to the places we care for, here’s information on the Canine Code and pawprint rating system to plan your visit.

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

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.