The north east is an amazing area and offers some of the most breathtaking scenery you can see and the best historical sites you can visit. What’s even better is that many north east attractions are welcoming to dogs, so you don’t have to leave your canine friend back at home! If you’re a resident at our fantastic park in the historic village of Hexham, you’ll be delighted to know there are lots of dog-friendly days out nearby which you’ll be able to enjoy.
Whether you already live at Causey Hill or are considering buying one of Daly Parks’ many holiday homes for sale in the north east or just looking for a day trip, in this edition of our blog we’ll offer inspiration for pooch-friendly activities…
Kielder Water & Forest Park
Just a short drive from Hexham, Kielder Water & Forest Park is one of the largest man-made lakes in England. It’s surrounded by miles of woodland and so there are lots of trails and dog-friendly routes through the park, including walks along the lake shore and through the forest.
There are dog-friendly facilities, including water bowls, in various locations throughout the park and there’s a fantastic cafe where you can grab a bite to eat while your dog relaxes by your feet. The Kielder Observatory is also nearby, though dogs aren’t allowed inside, but the surrounding parkland offers plenty of places for your pet to explore while you enjoy the views of the stars.
Set your sat nav: The postcode for the Tower Knowe visitor centre at Kielder Water is NE48 1BX.
Tynemouth beach and Longsands
For dog lovers who’d enjoy some refreshing sea air, Tynemouth beach and Longsands offer plenty of space for dogs to run freely and enjoy the sand and surf. The beaches have designated dog-friendly areas, and Tynemouth itself is a charming seaside spot that has plenty of cafes and pubs that welcome dogs.
Longsands is particularly famous for its wide expanse of sand, so your dog will have plenty of room to stretch its legs. There are seasonal restrictions, so it’s important to check ahead if you’re visiting in the summer, as there are certain parts of the beach where dogs are not permitted during peak times.
Nearby, Tynemouth Priory and Castle is also a great dog-friendly spot. The castle ruins date back to the 11th century and offer plenty of open space for dogs to explore. Although dogs are not allowed inside the castle, they are welcome in the grounds.
Set your sat nav: The postcode for Tynemouth Priory is NE30 4BZ.
Roker Beach
Roker Beach in Sunderland offers another near-perfect dog-friendly seaside opportunity. The beach is open to dogs all year round, so whether you’re visiting in the summer or the winter, your four-legged friend will be able to enjoy the sand and sea. The promenade and surrounding area at Roker Beach are also dog-friendly, and there are plenty of cafes nearby. Roker Park, just behind the beach, is another excellent spot with large open spaces and a lovely parkland setting.
Set your sat nav: Roker Park is located on Roker Park Road at SR6.
Alnwick Castle
Alnwick Castle is one of Northumberland’s most famous landmarks – and, luckily for your four-legged friend – it also happens to be dog-friendly. The castle has a long and rich history, having been a gentry seat since the 14th century. These days it’s perhaps most recognisable as a filming location for Harry Potter, used as Hogwarts.
While the interior of the castle isn’t suitable for dogs, the extensive gardens are great to explore with your dog. There are wide paths and beautiful landscaping (including the famous Poison Garden), and plenty of outdoor seating areas where you can relax with your dog after a stroll. Water bowls are provided throughout the gardens.
Set your sat nav: The postcode for Alnwick Castle and gardens is NE66 1NQ.
Cragside
Located near Rothbury, Cragside is a National Trust property nestled nicely within 1,000 acres of beautiful woodland. The gardens offer a network of trails that wind through the estate, with wooded areas, open spaces, lakes and streams for dogs to enjoy. Dogs are welcome in the gardens and grounds (provided they are on a lead), and water bowls are available at various locations around the property. Dogs are not permitted inside the house itself, but the surrounding estate more than makes up for it. If you enjoy history and nature, Cragside is the perfect combination for a day out with your dog.
Set your sat nav: The postcode for Cragside is NE65 7PX.
Town Moor, Newcastle
Somewhere a little more urban but still dog-friendly is Town Moor in Newcastle. The Moor is a large green space perfect for a leisurely stroll with your dog. It’s a popular spot, and you’ll find plenty of fellow dog lovers to chat to while yours gets some exercise. There are no specific dog facilities (eg. water bowls), so it’s a good idea to bring your own if you want to combine a city visit with dog-friendly outdoor space.
Set your sat nav: The postcode for Claremont Road (one of the best car parks for Town Moor) is NE2 4NL.
Northumberland National Park
This vast and unspoiled area offers miles of walking trails, picturesque views and dog-friendly spots to explore. With plenty of open space and rugged terrain, it’s perfect for active dogs who love to roam, and is home to a variety of wildlife and some incredible landmarks (including one of the most photographed spots along the world famous Hadrian’s Wall – the beautiful Sycamore Gap, which has received much attention in the last couple of years due to a heinous act of vandalism).
Dogs are allowed on all public footpaths and trails, and many of the park’s visitor centres have dog-friendly facilities including water bowls. Some areas may be more challenging for older or smaller dogs due to the terrain, but there are plenty of easier routes available for all levels of fitness.
Set your sat nav: The postcode for Steel Rigg car park, a 15-minute walk from Sycamore Gap, is NE47 7AN.
The north east is a real haven for dog owners, with a wide variety of dog-friendly attractions you can visit – from historical sites to stunning natural parks and coastline. With plenty of holiday homes for sale in Northumberland at our Causey Hill, you can enjoy these wonderful locations week after week, year after year, and you and your dog can become part of a thriving holiday park community.
Unlike trips abroad, owning a holiday home at one of the dog-friendly holiday parks in the North East means you can visit whenever you like without the hassle of passports or long journeys. Pack your walking boots, grab the lead, and head out to explore the best dog-friendly days out. Best of all, you won’t need a pet passport, as these locations are just a drive away from Causey Hill – perfect for spontaneous trips.