Allow Ordnance Survey to take the lead when walking your best friend

For dog owners, the greatest joy is a walk that both can enjoy in equal measure. Unfamiliar terrain can present problems along the way, but in three new guides to the Lake District, the Peak District and the Yorkshire Dales, 10 curated routes are detailed, offering walks for all abilities.

These carefully curated well-researched guides are by experienced outdoors authors who know the terrain well, but in this case their dogs to take the lead.

Available in all good bookshops, outdoor retailers and at os.uk/dogwalks

THE LAKE DISTRICT

Exploring the scenic Lake District with Elmo, his Italian Spinone, has given David Jordan an even greater appreciation of this exceptionally beautiful national park.

David says: “Elmo is a natural scenting dog, so he’s always got his nose to the ground exploring who, or what, else has been there. Consequently, his favourite walks are those with lots of variety.

“He’s a big fan of woodland, loves to snuffle through bracken and undergrowth.

“He’ll head for water if there is any and will paddle in the shallows happily for as long as we let him.”

With 10 routes to explore between two and four miles, there are dog-friendly pubs and cafés marked along the way and for the four-legged one, advice on keeping them safe and happy with safe water entry points, accessible drinking water, and rest stops. There is a clear information panel to show where a lead is required and where they can freely explore off-lead.

David embraced the opportunity to work on a guide that provided that clear information that every dog walker needs to truly enjoy a relaxing walk.

But even for David, who knows the Lake District well, Elmo’s keen nose took him to explore new areas.

Along lakeshore, woodland and riverside trails, the guide has clear turn-by-turn routes and indicators of every amenity required – from public toilets for the two-legged to transport routes and the stories behind each walk.

David says that creating the guide had the official “paws up” from Elmo.

THE YORKSHIRE DALES

The rolling hills and tranquil becks of the Yorkshire Dales offer the perfect escape for the most satisfying dog walks.

Sally Outram has curated 10 walks that make the most of every aspect of the Dales, ably assisted by her lovely Patterjack, called Ted.

“Each route had to feel welcoming, manageable, and enjoyable for a

wide range of dogs and owners,” says Sally.

“That meant looking beyond the scenery and really considering the practicalities: safe access, clear paths, water availability, escape‑proof sections, and how easy it would be for owners to navigate the route confidently.”

Having a terrier cross to satisfy meant knowing where he could and couldn’t be off lead but owners can find clear advice in each guide on that.

It is a walk for you both, so places where owners can find dog-friendly watering holes along the way are also marked.

Each of the 10 walks has a story in itself and shows what the two-legged one can find to interest and stimulate them along the way. A sense of the history of the area as well as its natural beauty.

Ted particularly enjoyed the Kettlewell route. “It stands out because it offered everything Ted loves: a mix of woodland, open views, and a peaceful riverside stretch where he could paddle and cool off. It had that perfect blend of variety and interest, the kind of walk where you both enjoy being out in the landscape together,” says Sally.

“For me, it was also a route that captured the area’s spirit beautifully, with a real sense of Yorkshire heritage and natural character.”

THE PEAK DISTRICT

Derbyshire’s jewel, the Peak District has so much to explore for dog and walker and in this guide there are 10 thoughtfully chosen routes to make the most of this stunning national park.

Stephanie Cooke has authored this guide with the help of Jim, who is a black Labrador. “Jim and I enjoy regular walks together.

“We are always seeking out new adventures, so this guide felt like a great opportunity, not only to share some of our favourite spots, but also to discover more.”

Planning walks between two and four and a half miles, as offered in the guide take some planning, but everything required is already in the guide.

From the basics of parking and transport to the practicalities of where to shelter in any weather and how to keep your four-legged friend and the wildlife they might encounter along the way, safe.

Follow the advice and inspiration in the guide and the stress of planning is unnecessary. All that’s required is enjoying time together in truly beautiful surroundings.

Even for the most experienced dog walker, the choice of walks will allow a new perspective on the park and provide that extra information that brings even the most stunning scenery into greater focus.

Although Jim enjoyed all of the chosen walks, Stephanie says: “Jim loved the Nine Ladies walk the most.

“ There was plenty of off-lead time and opportunities to potter and sniff around the stones.

“It was a close call between this walk and Milldale, as there was swimming to be had in the River Dove and caves to explore. Plus a shop offering ice cream for dogs!”

os.uk/dogwalks