Best dog walks in Bristol

Best dog walks in Bristol

31 August 2023

Walking our furry friends is such an important part of dog ownership. If you’re borrowing a dog, you might not know the best places to go, so we hope to inspire you with these local wagtastic walking spots for you and your doggy, borrowed or owned, in Bristol.


Eastville Park

A lovely summer's morning at Eastville Park in Bristol
Eastville Park | Photo © Derek Harper (cc-by-sa/2.0)

Eastville Park lies just to the South of the River Frome in the North East of the city of Bristol. It’s a large and open grassy area, that features several footpaths lined by trees, a pavilion, a boathouse and a lake.

The park is a popular location for community events and in May 2015 was host to the Love Saves the Day festival - a weekend-long celebration of underground music! At almost 50 acres in size, there is plenty of room for you and your dog to stroll along the river, play fetch in the open fields or watch ducks in the lake.

Plan your dog walk at Eastville Park.

Leigh Woods

A woodland path at Leigh Woods, Bristol
Leigh Woods

Described by the National Trust as a “wilderness of tranquillity”, Leigh Woods is a wonderful woodland situated above the Avon Gorge. A national nature reserve, Leigh Woods is the largest woodland in the Bristol area covering a 2 square kilometre area.

There are two forest trails that can both be accessed from the car park, one easy and one moderate in difficulty. In addition to this, there are fantastic views of the Avon Gorge, the Clifton Suspension Bridge and Cabot Tower. This is the perfect place for both dog and man alike to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature.

Plan your dog walk at Leigh Woods.

Blaise Castle Estate

Views of the surrounding countryside at Blaise Castle Estate
Blaise Castle Estate

It’s no wonder why Blaise Castle Estate has been described as “dog heaven” thanks to 650 acres of beautiful parkland and extensive scenic walking routes. The name of the estate comes from the castle itself, an 18th-century mansion house.

There are several different woodlands that can be explored on the estate, as well as pools, streams, grasslands, caves and quarries. The variety of terrains and sights means a visit to Blaise Castle Estate will never be dull and you can see something new every time you go!

Plan your dog walk at Blaise Castle Estate.

Ashton Court Estate

A view from the hill looking down on the open green space and Ashton Court Estate
Ashton Court Estate

850 acres of woodland and grassland make Ashton Court Estate prime dog-walking territory for anyone in the Bristol area. Home to lots of deer (don’t worry - they’re fenced in) and magnificent oak trees, the grand estate also boasts two 18-hole pitch-and-putt golf courses!

There’s a real feeling of being deep in the countryside, even though you’re just outside the city. The cafe at the mansion is dog-friendly and has water bowls out for our furry friends who will no doubt need a good drink after a long romp across this wonderful estate.

Plan your dog walk at Ashton Court Estate.

Kings Weston Estate

The side path leading up to the entrance of the Kings Weston Estate building
Kings Weston Estate | Photo © Eirian Evans (cc-by-sa/2.0)

Dogs are very welcome at this estate situated in the northwest of Bristol. The Grade II historic landscape covers 300 acres and is home to many historic buildings and beautiful gardens. The Great Avenue, planted in the early eighteenth century, is the oldest avenue in the whole of Bristol and its Lime trees are the oldest known in the city.

If you’re looking for great views whilst out on your walk, then head towards the Georgian viewing terrace at the top of the gardens. From here you can enjoy wonderful views across the River Avon and Somerset towards Bristol.

Plan your dog walk at Kings Weston Estate.

The Downs

The autumnal trees at Clifton Down
Clifton Down

The Downs, which consists of Clifton Down and Durdham Down, is a huge area of protected parkland that lies right on the edge of the city. Within walking distance of other major attractions like the Clifton Suspension Bridge, yet still able to offer that peaceful feeling you experience in the depths of the countryside. There are a number of different walking routes to choose from so you’ll want to come back time and time again!

Plan your dog walk at The Downs.

Cheddar Gorge

The gorgeous views at Cheddar Gorge
Cheddar Gorge

If you fancy heading slightly further afield for a special adventure with your dog, why not visit one of Britain’s most spectacular natural landmarks, Cheddar Gorge? All of the attractions on offer are dog-friendly. We recommend spending an entire day here to explore the history of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the nature and wildlife it offers a home to!

Plan your dog walk at Cheddar Gorge.

Queen Square

Within the heart of Bristol is Queen Square, a Georgian park area enclosed by trees and cobbled streets. So if you’re a dog sitter in Bristol and your pup needs a break from the busy streets why not head to Queen Square for some downtime?

Plan your dog walk at Queen Square.


Tell us where your favourite dog walk is!

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