The Cotswolds boast a beautiful and vast array of landscapes waiting to be explored, and we believe the only creatures capable of enjoying the rolling hills more than us humans are our faithful canine companions. That’s why at The Swan Hotel, we pride ourselves on being a dog-friendly hotel, welcoming well-behaved pooches of all shapes and sizes to come and enjoy the multitude of walking trails that the Cotswolds have to offer.
Luckily for dog owners, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is home to not just walks, but also attractions, that not only are suitable for dogs, but encourage them to join in.
Undoubtedly top of the list for the majority of our furry friends are the expansive Cotswold walks. The Swan Hotel is situated in the Cotswold market town of Wotton-Under-Edge, conveniently situated on the trail of The Cotswold Way. However, if you’re not looking to complete the entirety of The Cotswold Way, but still want the chance for you and your dog to appreciate the beauty of it, some shorter, circular, dog friendly walks are available below:
Chipping Camden – Cotswold Dog Walking
This beautifully scenic circular walk is around four and a half miles, three miles if you take the short cut. The walk takes you through the quaint and typically Cotswold market town of chipping Camden, as well as through shady woods, cool and calming for dogs on hot days.
Korea Friendship Trail Stinchcombe Hill – Cotswold Dog Walking
A stone’s throw from the The Swan Hotel, walk around this 3 and a half mile trail on Stinchcombe Hill to experience the Cotswolds with a different meaning. Created by The Cotswold Way in partnership with South Korea’s Jeju Olle Trail, this walk is one of the world’s first ‘friendship trails.’
Hills and Hillforts Cam Long Down and Uley – Cotswold Dog Walking
This stunning four mile walk is interesting and steeped in history, there’s something for you and your dog alike. Exploring open hilltops as well as woodland, discover the ancient history of Uley Bury.
Wotton-Under-Edge – Cotswold Dog Walking
Right on the doorstep of The Swan Hotel is the trail that explores Wotton-Under-Edge itself. Meaning you’re able to step outside of the hotel and join the trail straightaway, this five-mile trail explores rich parkland from the top of the escarpment down into the valley. Visit the famed Newark Park and extend your walk to six and a half miles.
The Selsley Circuit – Cotswold Dog Walking
Just past Wotton lies Selsley common on the outskirts of Stroud. A common that boasts exquisite views of the Stroud valley below, this popular five mile walk is one of the easiest to follow, stretching across the National Trail.
For more detailed information about these walks and route guidance, visit www.nationaltrail.co.uk
If you feel you’ve exhausted the Cotswold landscape, but not quite exhausted your canine friend, there are a number of local attractions and museums that welcome dogs. In terms of parkland, over two thirds of Westonbirt Arboretum is open to dogs, as well as Painswick Rococo Garden and Churchill’s glorious home, Blenheim Palace, a little further afield in west Oxfordshire.
Other attractions that are crazy about our four-legged friends include, Tewkesbury Abbey, Cotswold Wildlife Park, Batsford Arboretum, Cotswold Country Park & Beach and Cotswold Water Park.
Whether you’re looking for an interesting and unusual day out, a long walk, or just a dog-friendly place to eat, The Cotswolds can cater for all. We look forward to seeing you and your faithful friends at The Swan Hotel soon!