School’s Out, Walkies Are In: Animal Friends reveals “Ultimate UK Dog Walks”

• Animal Friends Pet Insurance has launched a free interactive map showcasing the UK’s favourite dog-friendly walking routes, as voted for by the country’s dog owners through new consumer research.
• The Lake District, New Forest National Park and the South West Coast Path top the list, as three quarters of dog owners in the country say a dog walk is one of the best parts of their day.
• Launching just in time for summer holidays, Ultimate UK Dog Walks gives owners an easy way to discover new routes their dogs will love, with practical tips to help make walks safe, enjoyable and stress-free.

Summer is here, the days are longer and Animal Friends Pet Insurance is helping dog owners turn everyday walkies into proper days out with their best friends.

New research commissioned by the insurance brand in July 2026 reveals that three quarters (76%) of owners say walking their dog is one of the best parts of their day, while almost all (95%) say their dog's enjoyment is just as important as their own when deciding where to walk, with 38% saying it is an even bigger priority.

To help owners make the most of every walk this summer, Animal Friends Pet Insurance has launched Ultimate UK Dog Walks – a free interactive map showcasing the country’s favourite dog-friendly walking routes, as voted for by dog owners through the research. Designed to inspire new adventures, the map helps owners discover routes suited to their dog while making it easier to plan enriching days together.

As part of Animal Friends' mission to support animal welfare, the map brings together 25 standout routes, alongside practical information on terrain, accessibility, seasonal considerations, livestock, water safety and local guidance, helping owners choose the right walk for both them and their dog.

Top of the pups

The top 10 dog walks as voted by dog owners in the UK:

1. Ambleside & Lakeside, Lake District (eg. Rydal Water Circular) - 28%
2. New Forest National Park, Hampshire (eg. Bolderwood Radnor Trail) - 23% 
3. South West Coast Path, Devon/Cornwall sections (eg. Baggy Point Circular) - 22% 
4. Northumberland Coast (eg. Bamburgh Beach Circular) - 19% 
5. Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire (eg. Major Oak Trail) - 17%
6. Richmond Park, London - 16%
7. Holkham Beach & Pinewoods Circular, Norfolk - 16%
8. Eryri (Snowdonia), Wales (eg. Cwm Idwal Circular) - 15%
9. Castleton, Derbyshire (eg. Mam Tor Circular) - 15%
10. Grizedale Forest, Lake District (eg. Ridding Wood Trail) - 14%

Sniffing out the perfect route

When choosing where to walk, owners say safety for their dog (55%), quiet or uncrowded routes (37%) and wide-open space where their dog can run around (36%) matter most. From the dog’s point of view, owners believe the top things their pets enjoy are simply being outdoors (48%), exploring new smells (48%) and running freely (46%), suggesting the best walks are the ones with plenty to sniff, space to stretch and room to roam.

Same lamppost, new adventure

While weekday walks are often shaped by busy schedules and familiar routes, summer offers the perfect opportunity to change things up. Ultimate UK Dog Walks makes it easier for owners to plan a day out that's different from the everyday, helping them discover new places to explore with confidence.

From sweeping coastlines and ancient woodlands to national parks and riverside trails, the interactive map brings together a diverse collection of dog-friendly walks from across the UK. Whether it's uncovering a hidden gem close to home or planning a weekend adventure further afield, the map is designed to inspire memorable days out for both dogs and their owners.

Expert advice for summer walkies

Jen Hipwell, Head of Veterinary Services at Animal Friends Pet Insurance, says: “Walks are one of the best parts of life with a dog, a chance to spend time together, explore somewhere new and make the most of the summer safely. Every dog is different, so a great day out will look different depending on their age, breed, health, personality and confidence.

“Before heading out, it's always worth checking your route in advance, as well as the weather and any local conditions that could affect your plans, particularly during periods of hot weather. Pack for your dog's needs, whether that's plenty of fresh water, treats, a lead, a favourite toy or somewhere comfortable to rest. The map has been designed to help owners find a walk that suits both them and their dog, so they can enjoy exploring somewhere confidently.”

Ultimate UK Dog Walks is free to access and can be found here.

ENDS