A “stunning” circular route in Hexham, Northumberland has been revealed as one of the UK’s best hidden gem dog-friendly walks that your four-legged family member is bound to enjoy.

Hints of spring are popping up all around us, from the daylight lasting a little longer to the daffodils blooming in the ground.

With this in mind, what better time of year to make the most of the outdoors – especially as the seasons are changing.

The outdoor dog specialists at Ruffwear have discovered hidden gem dog walks in the UK by finding the top-rated walks on AllTrails that were dog-friendly and had ratings of over 4.5 stars, creating an index of the highest-rated, least-reviewed dog walks.

The research revealed the Allen Banks to Staward Peel Circular (which has been given an ‘easy’ difficulty level by the experts) was ranked in third place thanks to its “stunning out-and-back trail”.

Why is this Northumberland trail one of UK's best dog-friendly hidden gem walks?

Ruffwear commented: “The 8.9 kilometre Allen Banks to Staward Peel circular located in Northumberland is the third top hidden gem dog walk in the UK, with one user describing the trail as ‘dog heaven’.

“Boasting historic scenery and streams, this route is a hidden gem that will take approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes to complete.

“With a few inclines, your trail companion will be more than happy to walk through the woodland to experience all of the brand-new sights and smells that will invigorate their senses.”

Please note, due to landslips and fallen trees, Allen Banks and Staward Gorge is currently closed to visitors including the toilets.

@bringing_up_bella Awesome route with lots to see 👍🏼 #Northumberland #DogWalksUK #HareshawLinnWaterfall #DogFriendlyHolidays ♬ Jungle - Emma Louise

The National Trust website adds: "The ground remains in an unstable state so please don't enter the woodland. Please check back for reopening information."

Recommended reading:

UK’s top 10 hidden gem dog-friendly walks to explore

  1. Alum Bay to Freshwater Bay – (Isle of Wight Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty)
  2. Martindale – Pikeawassa (Lake District)
  3. Allen Banks to Staward Peel Circular (Hexham, Northumberland)
  4. Bempton Cliffs to Flamborough Head (Flamborough Headland Heritage Coast)
  5. Heughscar Hill (Lake District National Park)
  6. The Lizard and Kynance Cove Circular (Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty)
  7. St Anthony’s Head to Bohortha Short Circular (Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty)
  8. Shortstown Circular (Bedford, Bedfordshire, England)
  9. Black Hill Circular (Peak District National Park)
  10. High Force Circular (North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty)

Ruffwear found that the Alum Bay to Freshwater Bay point-to-point route lasting 7.1 kilometres is the top hidden gem dog walk in the UK, located in the Isle of Wight Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.