A Dog-Friendly Peak District Getaway

Two days, two magical walks, and one very tired pup

There’s nothing we love more than packing up the car and heading somewhere new for fresh air, long walks, and a well-earned pub roast. This month, we swapped London’s bustle for the wild beauty of the Peak District, and honestly – it was everything we hoped for and more.

Here’s our little diary from the trip, in case you’re planning your own dog-friendly escape to the the country.

Day 1 – Dovedale Stepping Stones

We kicked things off with the Ilam Park to Dovedale Stepping Stones Trail, a classic Peak District walk and an absolute dream for a Monday morning.

The route there and back took us around 3.5 hours, and honestly manageable. The famous stepping stones did not disappoint, and Hank hopped across like he owned the place.

If you fancy doing the same route, you can find it on the National Trust site.

Dinner: The Lazy Trout Inn

After all that fresh air, we headed straight for The Lazy Trout Inn. Cosy, friendly, dog-loving staff… the perfect post-hike respite.

Where we stayed:

Our home for the night was a beautifully converted chapel basement – super dog-friendly, warm, and an absolute dream after hours on our feet. Highlights included:

✨ A roll top bath

✨ A private enclosed garden for Hank

✨ A backdrop of rolling hills

It was the ideal one-night hideaway before tackling a bigger hike in the morning.

Day 2 – The Roaches & Lud’s Church

This was the walk we came for. And honestly? It exceeded every single expectation.

We set off from the tearoom car park, hot drinks in hand (10/10 way to start any hike). From the moment we began, the route delivered sweeping views, hidden wooded paths, rock formations sculpted from when the Peak District lay underwater 320 million years ago (mind-blowing!), and so much wildlife.

The full walk took us around 4.5 hours, and compared to day 1, it definitely required a bit more stamina. Some steeper sections, some uneven ground – nothing too extreme, but worth prepping for if you’re bringing a dog who likes to go off exploring.

Lud’s Church

Nothing prepared us for the atmosphere inside Lud’s Church. It was like something straight out of a film. We even stumbled across the ruins of a tiny castle folded into the rock formations nearby!

The Peak District gave us everything we needed: fresh air, adventure and quiet. If you’re looking for a quick dog-friendly getaway (and good pubs, of course), pop it on your list.

And if you go – give Lud’s Church a moment. Trust us.