Dog Walks Near and Around Alnwick

With historic parkland, riverside paths and the Northumberland coast within easy reach, Alnwick is an excellent base for a walking holiday with your dog.

Brunton House and Cottages sits on a peaceful organic farm between Alnwick and Bamburgh. Several of our dog-friendly holiday cottages near Alnwick welcome one or two dogs, while public footpaths and bridleways provide walking opportunities across the surrounding estate.

If you would like to explore further afield, here are some of the best dog walks near Alnwick.

1. River Aln and Alnwick Castle

The River Aln offers one of the most convenient dog walks in Alnwick itself. Starting near the town centre, you can follow the riverside paths below Alnwick Castle and enjoy views across the river towards the castle grounds.

A short walk can be completed in around an hour, or extended by following paths through the surrounding pastures. Some sections may become muddy after rain, so suitable footwear is recommended.

This is a particularly good option if you want to combine a gentle walk with time in Alnwick’s shops, cafés and historic town centre.

Dogs should be kept under close control, particularly where paths pass through farmland or areas containing livestock.

Please note that dogs are not permitted in Hulne Park or The Alnwick Garden, except for registered assistance dogs. The riverside paths outside these attractions provide a useful dog-friendly alternative.

Best for: A shorter walk close to Alnwick town centre.

Terrain: Riverside paths, grass and farmland.

2. Alnmouth Circular Walk

Around a 15-minute drive from Alnwick, Alnmouth offers a varied walk combining beach, dunes, riverside scenery and views of the village.

The popular circular route is approximately 4.5 miles long. It begins near Alnmouth Beach and follows the sand before passing through the dunes and returning alongside the River Aln.

Parts of the path around the estuary and golf course can become wet or muddy, particularly following heavy rain. Care should also be taken around the estuary, where channels, tides and soft sand can make some areas hazardous.

Alnmouth’s wide beach gives energetic dogs plenty of space, while the village provides several places to stop for refreshments after the walk.

Best for: A varied coastal and riverside walk.

Distance: Approximately 4.5 miles.

Terrain: Beach, dunes, riverside paths and potentially muddy ground.

3. Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle

The walk from Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle is one of Northumberland’s best-known coastal routes.

Beginning in the fishing village of Craster, the path crosses open coastal farmland towards the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. The outward and return walk is approximately four miles, with extensive views along the coast throughout the route.

Dogs are welcome on the walk but should be kept on a lead around livestock and ground-nesting birds. The route is exposed, with relatively little shelter, so take water for both yourself and your dog during warm weather.

The path can be uneven and muddy in places. Craster is also extremely popular during weekends and holiday periods, so arriving earlier in the day can make parking easier.

Best for: Coastal scenery and a classic Northumberland landmark.

Distance: Approximately four miles there and back.

Terrain: Grass, farmland and uneven coastal paths.

4. Embleton Bay and Dunstanburgh Castle

For a longer coastal walk, approach Dunstanburgh Castle from the north through Embleton Bay.

This route combines a long sandy beach with dunes, open countryside and impressive views of the castle. You can begin near Dunstan Steads and walk south along the beach before joining the path towards the castle.

The distance can be adjusted easily. A short stroll along Embleton Bay is suitable for a more relaxed outing, while continuing towards Dunstanburgh creates a substantially longer walk.

Dogs are welcome on the beach, but leads may be required around livestock, wildlife and nesting birds. Always follow local signs and avoid fenced nesting areas.

Check the tide before setting out, particularly if you intend to complete much of the route along the beach.

Best for: A flexible beach walk with castle views.

Terrain: Sand, dunes, grass and coastal paths.

5. Cragside

Located near Rothbury, approximately half an hour from Alnwick, Cragside offers a choice of woodland, lakeside and garden walks within its extensive grounds.

The National Trust provides nine waymarked trails, ranging from shorter strolls to more challenging routes. Dogs are welcome in all outdoor areas, including the woodland and gardens, but must remain on a lead throughout the visit.

Water bowls and dog-waste bins are available at several points around the estate. Dog-friendly seating is also provided at the tearooms, although dogs cannot enter the house.

Cragside is a good choice when you want a managed walking route with parking, facilities and several distances to choose from. Admission charges apply, so check the National Trust’s current Cragside information before travelling.

Best for: Woodland walks and clearly marked routes.

Terrain: Woodland, surfaced paths, hills and lakeside trails.

6. Walks Around Brunton

Guests staying at Brunton House and Cottages do not always need to get in the car before setting off for a walk.

There are public footpaths and bridleways across the Brunton estate, which forms part of the 2,500-acre Fallodon Estate. The cottages are surrounded by farmland, woods and open countryside, with views towards the coast and Beadnell Bay.

Because Brunton is a working farm, dogs must be kept under close control. Leads should be used around sheep and during lambing, while all instructions from farm workers and signs should be followed.

If cattle approach, official countryside guidance recommends releasing your dog from its lead if necessary so that it can escape independently. Never put yourself at risk while attempting to protect or retrieve a dog.

More guidance for guests, including information about livestock and the individual cottages that accept dogs, is available on our Dogs at Brunton page.

Best for: A peaceful countryside walk directly from your cottage.

Terrain: Public footpaths, bridleways, farmland and woodland.

Tips for Walking with Your Dog Near Alnwick

Northumberland’s coast and countryside are working landscapes as well as popular visitor destinations. A little preparation will help everyone enjoy them safely.

• Carry water for your dog, particularly on exposed coastal routes.
• Keep dogs under close control around livestock.
• Follow temporary signs relating to nesting birds or farm activity.
• Check tide times before walking along beaches or around estuaries.
• Expect unsurfaced paths to become muddy after wet weather.
• Take dog-waste bags and remove waste from paths and mown areas.
• Check current parking, access and dog restrictions before travelling.
• Never leave your dog unattended in your holiday cottage or its garden.

Stay Near Alnwick with Your Dog

Brunton House and Cottages provides a peaceful countryside base between Alnwick and Bamburgh, within easy reach of both inland walks and the Northumberland coast.

Our dog-friendly properties accommodate between two and 16 guests. Selected cottages include enclosed gardens or patios, while walks can be enjoyed directly from the estate.

Explore our dog-friendly cottages near Alnwick or check prices and availability for your next Northumberland break.