Great Places That Welcome Dogs

Yes it is no secret, I adore dogs! All dogs, every single breed, but when it comes to my favourite breed, it is Labradors all the way for me. Over the years my red-fox Labrador, Lola, and I, have had many adventures and fun times together. We have visited many places, and it is always wonderful to discover a place that is dog friendly and welcoming. It will be an absolute joy to share mine and Lola's favourite places, which are well worth a visit, and are a treat for your dog, as well as yourself.

Foxton Locks

Foxton Locks is a highly recommended day trip. It is part of the Grand Union Canal, set in the beautiful Leicestershire countryside, not too far from the historic town of Market Harborough.

You can walk for miles along the canal with your pooch. At the Locks you do need to put your dog on its lead, but purely for safety, as when the Locks are open that drop is very steep. Dogs are more than welcome, with dog water bowls aplenty! The lovely pub, The Foxton Locks Inn, welcomes dogs too; bonus!

Whilst there you can check out the museum, gift shop, and cafe. Plus there is the very impressive stair of Locks, the longest and the steepest in the UK. The view at the top is incredible. Over 4,000 boats pass through Foxton Locks each year.

There is a fee for the car park, but Foxton Locks itself is free.

Lola loves it here! We have been so much she even knows her way around! We always buy flapjack at the shop, and eat it whilst overlooking the Locks. She always insists we go over the same bridge when crossing over the canal too!

Also if you have time, do walk into the village of Foxton too. A very pretty village. Peaceful, and lovely to walk around.

Wistow Rural Centre

Wistow Rural Centre is a hidden gem of a place in the rural Leicestershire countryside. As well as being a garden centre you'll also find gift shops, cafes, a gallery, a model village. In the summer months there is a huge maze to explore! Exciting! The maze is made from a field of maize. With a different maze each year. It is hugely popular, and a lot of fun.

Dogs are very welcome, and surrounding the rural centre are miles of fields, and footpaths, for you and your dog to explore.

Wistow itself is a tiny place, a hamlet, very rural, scenic, pretty, in rolling green countryside. Not too far away is another pretty little place, Newton Harcourt, which is lovely to have a walk around too.

Lola has had a few visits to Wistow Rural Centre, its great as dogs can go inside the buildings, and grounds. Lola especially enjoys exploring the grounds.

Leicestershire Round

The Leicestershire Round is simply perfection for dogs. A one hundred mile route around Leicestershire, taking in the counties finest views and locations. Through fields, bridleways, woodlands, pretty villages. You'll see all the beauty of this historic land. The walk takes in Leicestershire's best loved scenic locations, including, Foxton Locks, Bradgate Park, Charnwood Forest, National Forest.

I'm not suggesting doing all one hundred miles in one go, unless you're feeling super adventurous! But the part Lola and I know best, and recommend, is to follow the Round from Foxton Locks to a village called Saddington, then call in for refreshments at the Queen's Head pub. The view from the beer garden boasts to be the best view in Leicestershire. I have to agree!

Ferry Meadows

Ferry Meadows is less than three miles away from Peterborough City Centre, in Cambridgeshire. It is one of the largest country parks in Cambridgeshire, found at the heart of Nene Park.

It is a great day trip, or you can go camping there too. The outdoor activities include sailing, cycling, fishing, and bird watching. One thing I found there are tonnes of cyclists riding on the footpaths, so keep an eye on your dog, for its safety.

The area is very scenic with walks by lakes and woodland areas. There are cafes for refreshments. Lovely, relaxing place.

This place is wonderful for dogs. Lola loves walking through the woodlands, and we walked into Peterborough too, and had a look around the magnificent Cathedral.

Only moan is, I found Peterborough City Centre to be lacking in dog water bowls. I came across none. So do take your own bottle of water for your dog to have if need be.

Saddington Reservoir

Saddington Reservoir is the second oldest reservoir in Leicestershire. Its a quiet, beautiful nature spot. A great area for bird spotting, and it's a popular home for dragonflies too, amongst other insects. The view of the reservoir is stunning. You may be lucky enough to see sail boats on the water too.

Beyond the reservoir there is a footpath along a small stream and marsh land, which goes into hilly fields. It is one of mine and Lola's favourite walks. Utter bliss.

After the reservoir, it is definetely a great idea to have a wander around the nearby village of Gumley. Following the lane to the right from the reservoir, up the hill, there is a trig at the top. Do take in the breathtaking 360 degree view. Before you enter Gumley village, go to the fields on the right hand side, have an explore of Gumleys very own natural amphitheatre. It's an incredible piece of historic land, you could easily picture a Knight riding by on horseback!

It is always a joy to have a day trip with your dog. Lola and I always have fun, and share many happy memories together. The places I have suggested are a selection of our favourite stomping grounds. Where I know your pooch will be safe, welcomed, and will enjoy.

Your dog needs plenty of exercise, and remember the exercise is not only good for your dog, it is good for you too. Plus, bonus, walking is completely free. It's wonderful for your mind and body. So come on, get out there, with your four legged friend, and make happy memories and enjoy exploring. Have fun!