Introduction
If you're searching for dog-friendly lakes near me, you'll find the UK full of picturesque spots perfect for paw-soaked adventures. These 20 dog-friendly lakes stretch from Oxfordshire to the Scottish Highlands, where your furry friend can swim, run, and enjoy time outdoors. This guide explores fascinating histories, swimming tips, nearby dog-friendly accommodation, and practical information to help you plan memorable outings with your pet. You can also visit our databes of Best Dog Swimming Sports in the UK.
🌊 The 20 Best Dog-Friendly Lakes Near Me (UK)
1. Tar Lakes, Oxfordshire (Ducklington Lake)
Once gravel pits, these lakes in Oxfordshire are now crystal-clear swimming spots ideal for dogs. Your pup will enjoy splashing in the fenced swimming areas and strolling along woodland paths. Nearby Little Wittenham Cottages offer dog-friendly stays, complete with dog beds and treats.
Google Maps Location: Tar Lakes, Oxfordshire
2. Hollingworth Reservoir, Greater Manchester
Originally built in the 19th century to supply Rochdale, Hollingworth Reservoir is now a popular spot for dog swimming and peaceful walks. After your visit, enjoy fish and chips at the local café. Nearby Littleborough B&Bs warmly welcome dogs, often with special amenities.
Google Maps Location: Hollingworth Reservoir
3. Lake 86, Cotswold Water Park, Gloucestershire
Part of the vast Cotswold Water Park, Lake 86 has designated dog-swim zones and a lovely circular trail. Enjoy pizza at the lakeside café, or stay overnight at Water Park Lodges, known for their dog-friendly services.
Google Maps Location: Lake 86, Cotswold Water Park
Suggested Product:
Vibrating Dog Collar from Calmshops
4. Virginia Water Lake, Berkshire
This historic lake, landscaped by Capability Brown, features trails, scenic cascades, and dog-friendly swimming spots. Nearby Windsor offers plenty of pet-friendly accommodations, including the Macdonald Windsor Hotel.
Google Maps Location: Virginia Water Lake
5. Derwent Water, Cumbria
Famous since Wordsworth’s era, Derwent Water has gravel shores ideal for dog swimming. Explore historical spots like Friar's Crag, then relax in dog-friendly Keswick hotels like Inn on the Square.
Google Maps Location: Derwent Water, Keswick
6. Brockhole on Windermere, Cumbria
A National Trust visitor centre featuring lakeside trails and dog-friendly beaches, Brockhole is perfect for adventurous pets. Nearby Windermere village offers cozy lodgings such as Brockhole Lodges and local dog-friendly cafés.
Google Maps Location: Brockhole on Windermere
7. Silver Bay (Ullswater), Cumbria
Quiet and secluded, Silver Bay offers pebbly shores ideal for dog swimming. Nearby Hartsop Fold Lodges provide dog-friendly stays within easy reach of scenic Ullswater trails.
Google Maps Location: Silver Bay, Ullswater
8. Aira Force (Ullswater), Cumbria
At Aira Force, your dog can explore trails leading to dramatic waterfalls and swim in the tranquil pools below. Nearby Fell Foot Park lodgings welcome pets for a restful night.
Google Maps Location: Aira Force, Ullswater
9. Whinlatter Forest & Lake, Cumbria
Ideal for adventurous dogs, Whinlatter offers forest trails, wildlife spotting, and shallow lake swims. Keswick-area lodges accommodate pets and provide special treats and towels.
Google Maps Location: Whinlatter Forest Lake
10. Loch Awe, Argyll, Scotland
Scotland’s Loch Awe, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and the ruins of Kilchurn Castle, welcomes dogs for swims and trails. Lochside Hotels offer warm fireplaces and dog-friendly rooms nearby.
Google Maps Location: Loch Awe, Argyll
11. Llyn y Fan Fach, Brecon Beacons, Wales
Legendary Llyn y Fan Fach in Wales provides scenic dog swimming in clear waters, surrounded by mountain myths. Stay in cozy Brecon B&Bs such as Cae Crwn, complete with pet amenities.
Google Maps Location: Llyn y Fan Fach
12. Llyn Idwal, Snowdonia, Wales
Set amidst Snowdonia’s stunning scenery, Llyn Idwal allows dogs to paddle in its clear northern shores. Nant Ffrancon cottages nearby cater specially to four-legged guests.
Google Maps Location: Llyn Idwal
13. Kielder Water, Northumberland
Britain’s largest reservoir, Kielder Water, offers endless lakeside trails and dog-friendly beaches. Stay at comfortable Kielder Water Lodges with enclosed outdoor spaces for pets.
Google Maps Location: Kielder Water
14. Windrush River, Bourton-on-the-Water, Cotswolds
Though technically a river, Windrush River feels lake-like in this charming village setting, where dogs enjoy paddling safely. Millennium B&Bs in Bourton warmly welcome dogs.
Google Maps Location: Windrush River, Bourton-on-the-Water
15. Sandscale Haws Beach, Lake District
This National Trust coastal dune system features shallow lagoons perfect for dog swims. Nearby Ambleside lodges offer relaxing overnight stays for pets and their owners.
Google Maps Location: Sandscale Haws Beach
16. Fell Foot Park, Windermere, Cumbria
Fell Foot Park provides peaceful lakeside swimming areas for dogs and picturesque walking trails. Dogs and owners can unwind in dog-friendly Fell Foot pods located close by.
Google Maps Location: Fell Foot Park, Windermere
17. Ullswater, Lake District
Renowned for stunning views, Ullswater offers multiple dog-friendly swimming areas and boat trips welcoming pets. Patterdale Lodges nearby provide comfortable accommodation with scenic views.
Google Maps Location: Ullswater
18. Ravenglass Beach, Cumbria
Ravenglass offers quiet lagoons perfect for dogs and historical sites such as Roman ruins nearby. Stay at dog-friendly Rowan Cottage, complete with treats for canine guests.
Google Maps Location: Ravenglass Beach
19. Haverigg Beach, Cumbria
Haverigg’s Blue-Flag beach and tidal lagoons provide fantastic off-leash opportunities year-round. Nearby holiday cottages welcome dogs and provide special amenities.
Google Maps Location: Haverigg Beach
20. Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid), Snowdonia, Wales
Wales' largest natural lake, Bala Lake offers dogs spacious shores and trails, with clear, swimmable waters. Cefn Nannau barn lodgings provide luxurious dog-friendly stays.
Google Maps Location: Bala Lake
🐶 Dog-Friendly Stay & Safety Tips
When visiting dog-friendly lakes near me, keep these tips in mind:
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Follow local on-leash regulations.
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Provide parasite protection.
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Pack essentials like towels, bowls, and toys (available at Calmshops!).
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Ensure pets hydrate and rest adequately.
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Always follow posted lake and conservation rules.
📣 Last Bark
Visit our Calmshops store for essential gear like waterproof dog toys, quick-dry towels, and pet-friendly accessories ideal for lakeside adventures. Share your dog's lake fun with #CalmshopsPupSplash and follow us for more dog-friendly tips and locations!
