Tyne and Wear might be known for its vibrant cities and coastline, but there’s plenty of dog walks to escape into the great outdoors with your four-legged friend. From seaside strolls around Tynemouth and Cullercoats to leafy woodland, riverside paths and open country parks, you’ll find plenty of places for your pup to stretch your legs, enjoy the fresh air and explore together.
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Dog-friendly walks
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Find the Perfect Dog Walk Near You in Tyne and Wear
Tyne and Wear is full of opportunities to get out and explore with your dog, whether you fancy relaxed seaside dog walks or a longer route to really stretch your legs. Follow the coastline around Tynemouth, Cullercoats and St Mary’s Island, wander through leafy woodland or discover open spaces and country parks around Newcastle, Gateshead and Sunderland. Whatever your dog’s idea of a good walk, there’s a route to suit.
Planning a dog-friendly break in Tyne and Wear? Our guide brings together some of the best walks across the region, with a mix of coastal scenery, riverside paths, woodland trails and green spaces. From the buzz of the coast to quieter countryside escapes, you can discover a different side of Tyne and Wear with your four-legged companion by your side.
To help you choose your perfect route, we’ve included all the useful details you need before setting off, including distance, difficulty, terrain, parking, public transport and guidance on keeping your dog on a lead. All that’s left to do is grab the treats, clip on the lead and set off exploring.
dog walks tyne and wear, jesmond dene
Jesmond Dene
Location: Newcastle
Length: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
Route type: Circular
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Mostly surfaced paths and woodland trails
Starting point: NE7 7BQ
Closest car park: Jesmond Dene Visitor Centre car park
Public transport: Jesmond Metro, followed by a short walk. Local buses also serve Jesmond Dene Road
Lead guidance: Dogs are welcome, but keep them under control and on a lead where signage requires it, particularly around Pet's Corner and busy areas.
Closest inn: The Tynemouth Castle Inn
What to expect:
This is a lovely introduction to walking in Newcastle, taking you through the leafy valley of Jesmond Dene and into Armstrong Park. Follow the Ouseburn through woodland, passing waterfalls, historic buildings and plenty of places for your dog to stop and sniff.
The route is generally gentle underfoot, although some of the smaller paths can become muddy after rain. With cafés along the way, it's an easy one to turn into a relaxed morning or afternoon out with your four-legged friend.
dog walks tyne and wear
Rising Sun Country Park
Location: North Tyneside
Length: 5 miles (8 km)
Route type: Circular
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: A mix of grassland, woodland, and surfaced paths
Starting point: NE12 9SS
Closest car park: Rising Sun Countryside Centre car park
Public transport: Local Tyneside bus services stop close to the country park and Countryside Centre
Lead guidance: Dogs should be kept on a lead in the nature reserve, around the centre and near the farm
Closest inn: The Tynemouth Castle Inn
What to expect:
With around 400 acres to explore, Rising Sun is a great choice when your dog needs a little more room to stretch their legs.
The route winds through open grassland and woodland, with ponds, wetlands and bird hides adding plenty of interest along the way. Keep an eye out for wildlife around Swallow Pond and, if you're lucky, you might even spot some of the park's resident deer.
There are a few inclines and muddy patches to negotiate, but nothing too demanding, making this a good all-rounder for an active dog walk.
dog walks tyne and wear
Newburn Riverside & Tyne Riverside Loop
Location: Newburn
Length: 4.5 miles (7 km)
Route type: Circular
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Flat riverside paths, tarmac, gravel tracks and some muddy footpaths
Starting point: NE15 8ND
Closest car park: Tyne Riverside Country Park car park
Public transport: Bus services stop on Newburn High Street, a short walk from the park
Lead guidance: Dogs should be kept under control around other walkers, cyclists and livestock; take particular care close to the River Tyne.
Closest inn: The Tynemouth Castle Inn
What to expect:
If your dog loves a good riverside sniff, this is a great one to add to the list. Starting at Tyne Riverside Country Park, the route follows the River Tyne and can be extended towards Wylam for a longer adventure.
Much of the walk is lovely and flat, with a mixture of surfaced tracks and well-defined paths, so it’s a good option for dogs and owners who prefer easier-going terrain. There are also spots where dogs can get close to the river, although take care as the water can be deep and currents can be strong.
dog walks tyne and wear
Derwent Walk
Location: Swalwell
Length: 4 miles (6.4 km)
Route type: Circular
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Woodland paths, riverside trails, former railway paths and gentle inclines
Starting point: NE16 3AQ
Closest car park: Derwent Walk Country Park car park
Public transport: Local buses serve Swalwell from Gateshead and Newcastle
Lead guidance: Some sections may allow off-lead exercise, but keep your dog under close control and follow local signage
Closest inn: The Tynemouth Castle Inn or The Seaburn Inn
What to expect:
The Derwent Walk is a brilliant choice if you want countryside without travelling far from Newcastle. The circular route combines woodland, riverside sections and the old railway line, giving you a nice mix of scenery without any particularly strenuous climbs.
There’s plenty for dogs to investigate, from woodland smells to riverside wildlife, while the old railway heritage adds a little interest for walkers too. It's popular with walkers, cyclists and horse riders, so a lead is handy when things get busy.
Tynemouth
Tynemouth Priory & Longsands
Location: Tynemouth
Length: 2.5 miles (4 km)
Route type: Circular
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Walking on the promenade and paved paths
Starting point: NE30 4BZ
Closest car park:Tynemouth Priory / Spanish Battery car parks
Public transport: Tynemouth Metro Station connects to Newcastle and surrounding areas
Lead guidance: On the coast, keep them under close control and check seasonal beach restrictions before visiting. Dogs are restricted from the southern section of Tynemouth Longsands between 1 May and 30 September. Keep dogs on leads if visiting Tynemouth Priory.
Closest inn: The Tynemouth Castle Inn
What to expect:
If you and your dog are looking for a walk combining history, sea views and a stretch of golden sand, look no further than the coastal town of Tynemouth. Start around the dramatic headland at Tynemouth Priory before following the coast past King Edward's Bay and along Longsands beach. Make sure to check for seasonal dog restrictions on the southern section of Longsands, which come into place during summer months, where the route along the promenade can be taken before heading onto Longsands North.
There's plenty to keep curious dogs entertained, from sandy stretches and grassy clifftops to the sights and sounds of the North Sea. The route is relatively easy, although take extra care around cliff edges and keep your dog close in busier areas.
dog walks tyne and wear
Saltwell Park
Location: Gateshead
Length: 2 miles (3 km)
Route type: Circular
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Surfaced park paths, grass and gentle slopes
Starting point: NE9 5AX
Closest car park: Saltwell Park car and coach park
Public transport: Bus connections through Gateshead
Lead guidance: Keep dogs under control and follow any on-lead signage within the park.
Closest inn: The Seaburn Inn
What to expect:
For an easy-going park walk with plenty to look at, Saltwell Park is hard to beat. Wander around the lake, through woodland and landscaped gardens, with the impressive Saltwell Towers providing a rather grand backdrop.
The mostly surfaced paths make this a good option for a gentler dog walk, while the open green spaces give plenty of opportunities for a good sniff around. It’s also conveniently close to Gateshead and Newcastle, making it a useful option when you don't want to venture too far.
dog walks tyne and wear
Chopwell Wood Boundary Walk
Location: Chopwell, Gateshead
Length: 4.5 miles (7 km)
Route type: Circular
Difficulty: Hard
Terrain: Woodland tracks, uneven forest paths, riverbank sections and several inclines
Starting point: NE39 1LT
Closest car park: Forestry England Chopwell Wood car park
Public transport: Accessible via the bus 47 to Hookergate, then approximately a 10-minute walk to the trailhead
Lead guidance: Off lead is welcome, but keep under close control around other users and wildlife
Closest inn: The Seaburn Inn
What to expect:
Ready for something a little more adventurous? The Boundary Walk is Chopwell Wood's longest waymarked route and takes you on a full tour of the woodland.
You'll pass through old beech and larch woods, cross the old mineral railway and head towards the River Derwent before climbing back towards the car park. There are woodland sculptures to discover along the way, including the famous Chopwell 'hands'.
The route has several inclines, particularly on the return from the river, so it's best suited to energetic dogs and owners who don't mind getting a little muddy.
Gibside Orangery
Gibside Nature Trail
Location: Gibside, near Rowlands Gill
Length: 5.5 miles (8.8 km)
Route type: Circular
Difficulty: Hard
Terrain: Woodland paths, rough tracks, grassland, steep gradients and steps
Starting point: NE16 6BG – Gibside Market Place
Closest car park: Gibside National Trust car park
Public transport: Buses from Newcastle and the Metrocentre towards Consett, arriving at Rowlands Gill around 0.5 miles away
Lead guidance: Dogs must be kept on a lead throughout this route due to livestock and wildlife.
Closest inn: The Seaburn Inn
What to expect:
This is one for dogs and owners who like to put some miles under their paws. The route takes in a real mix of Gibside's landscape, from woodland and meadows to wetlands and riverside paths, with plenty of wildlife to spot along the way.
There are some steep gradients and steps, and the rougher sections can become muddy, so sturdy footwear is a good idea. Keep your dog close on this one, as livestock graze in the surrounding countryside, but the varied scenery makes the extra effort well worth it.
Penshaw Monument
Herrington Country Park & Penshaw Monument Circular
Location: Herrington, Sunderland
Length: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
Route type: Circular
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Tarmac paths, gravel tracks, grassland and a short hill climb
Starting point: DH4 7EL
Closest car park: Herrington Country Park car park
Public transport: Local bus services serve Herrington and the surrounding Penshaw area
Lead guidance: Dogs should be kept under control around the park
Closest inn: The Seaburn Inn
What to expect:
With open green space, a lake and the unmistakable Penshaw Monument, this is a great all-round dog walk in Wearside.
The route starts in Herrington Country Park before heading towards Penshaw, giving you a mixture of easy paths and a little more of a climb as you approach the monument.
There's plenty of space for dogs to explore, along with lovely views across the surrounding countryside. It's a particularly good choice if you're looking for somewhere that feels like a proper day out but doesn't require a full day's hiking.
Roker,Pier,With,Black,Metal,Railing,In,Sunderland,,Tyne,And
Roker to Souter Coastal Walk
Location: Roker to Whitburn, Sunderland
Length: 4 miles (6.5 km)
Route type: Linear
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Riverside paths, grassy tracks, woodland, fields and uneven stone paths
Starting point: SR6 9PB – Roker seafront
Closest car park: Roker seafront car parks
Public transport:Sunderland Metro and bus services serve Roker - the route finishes close to Souter Lighthouse, with buses available for the return journey
Lead guidance: Keep dogs under close control along the coast and on a lead near cliff edges
Closest inn: The Seaburn Inn
What to expect:
This is a longer coastal wander with plenty of sea views to keep both you and your dog entertained. Starting at Roker, follow the coastline northwards, passing Roker Lighthouse before continuing towards Whitburn and eventually Souter Lighthouse.
The scenery changes as you go, from urban seafront to open coastline and grassy clifftops, making it feel like a proper little adventure without heading far from Sunderland.
dog walks tyne and wear, st mary's lighthouse, whitley bay
St Mary’s Lighthouse to Tynemouth
Location: North Tyneside
Length: 4.7 miles (7.5 km)
Route type: Linear
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Promenade, paved coastal paths, and some grassy sections
Starting point: NE26 4RS
Closest car park: St Mary's Island Car Park
Public transport: Buses serve the Whitley Bay area. Tynemouth Metro Station is close to the finish, making it straightforward to return by public transport.
Lead guidance: Keep dogs under close control along the coastal path, and take note of seasonal beach restrictions if walking on the beaches.
Closest inn: The Tynemouth Castle Inn
What to expect:
Starting at the iconic St Mary’s Lighthouse, head south along the coastline towards Whitley Bay, following the seafront past the sweeping sandy beach and Spanish City before continuing towards Cullercoats. From here, the route follows the coast around Cullercoats Bay and along the clifftops above Tynemouth Longsands, eventually arriving at the dramatic headland of Tynemouth Priory and Castle.
There’s a lovely mix of open sea views, beaches, rocky bays and bustling seaside scenery along the way, with plenty of opportunities to stop for a breather. The route is mostly flat and straightforward, although there are a few steeper sections and uneven stretches, particularly around the coastal paths.
Make sure to check the tide times for St Mary's Island, with the causeway being submerged at high tide!
A note before you set off: These walks are intended as a helpful guide and starting point for exploring the local area with your dog. Routes, conditions and access can change, so please check current local guidance, weather conditions and access restrictions before setting off. Always use your own judgement and choose a route that’s suitable for you and your dog.
Tips for Walking Dogs in Tyne and Wear
Whether you’re heading for the coast, exploring a country park or enjoying a woodland wander, Tyne and Wear has plenty of great places to stretch four legs. Keep these tips in mind for a happy and hassle-free walk:
- Check local dog restrictions: Beach and park rules can vary, particularly during the summer. For example, parts of the North Tyneside coastline have seasonal dog restrictions, while Sunderland has dog exclusion zones at sections of Roker and Seaburn beaches from 1 May to 30 September.
- Keep your dog under control: Make sure your dog is in sight and comes back reliably when called. Keep them on a lead where signs ask you to, and around livestock, wildlife, roads and cliff edges.
- Be extra careful around livestock: Tyne and Wear’s countryside routes can pass through farmland, so always give livestock plenty of space and put your dog on a lead when needed. Never allow your dog to chase or worry animals.
- Take care along the coast: Coastal walks around Tynemouth, Cullercoats, Whitley Bay and Sunderland offer spectacular views, but cliff edges, changing weather and uneven ground mean it’s important to keep dogs close.
- Check the tide: If your walk takes you near St Mary’s Lighthouse or other tidal areas, check tide times before setting off. Never let your dog cross a tidal causeway if conditions aren’t safe.
- Pack water and a bowl: Even on shorter walks, fresh water is handy, particularly on sunny days when you’re spending time on exposed coastal paths.
- Bring a lead even if your dog usually walks off lead: You never know when you’ll encounter livestock, horses, cyclists, wildlife or a section where local rules require dogs to be leashed.
- Bag it and bin it: Always pick up after your dog and take waste with you if there isn’t a suitable bin nearby. Dog waste can be harmful to people, livestock and wildlife.
- Stick to the path: Following marked routes helps protect wildlife, crops and the surrounding countryside. It also makes it easier to keep your dog away from livestock and private land.
- Be prepared for muddy paws: Woodland and countryside routes can get muddy after wet weather, so towels, water and a boot-cleaning routine can save your car (and your accommodation!) from a muddy makeover.
- Give wildlife plenty of space: Coastal and countryside walks are home to birds and other wildlife. Keep dogs from chasing or disturbing animals and follow any local signage, particularly around sensitive coastal habitats.
FAQs for your dog friendly walks
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Where can I walk my dog near Newcastle?
There are plenty of dog-friendly walks close to Newcastle, from leafy Jesmond Dene and riverside paths at Newburn to longer trails through Derwent Walk Country Park. If you fancy a trip to the coast, Tynemouth, Cullercoats and Whitley Bay offer scenic seaside walks with plenty of fresh sea air. -
Are dogs allowed on beaches in Tyne and Wear?
Yes, dogs are allowed on many beaches in Tyne and Wear, although restrictions apply to certain areas at particular times of year. In North Tyneside, seasonal dog restrictions run from 1 May to 30 September on parts of Whitley Bay, Cullercoats Bay, King Edward's Bay and southern Tynemouth Longsands. Sunderland also has seasonal exclusion zones at parts of Roker and Seaburn beaches. Always check local signs before letting your dog onto the sand. -
Are there off-lead dog walks in Tyne and Wear?
Dogs can be walked off lead in some areas of Tyne and Wear, provided they are under effective control and local signs don't require them to be on a lead. Around livestock, wildlife, roads, busy areas and cliff edges, it's best to keep your dog on a lead. Always check signage at your chosen walking spot, as local restrictions can apply. -
Can dogs swim in the sea on Tyne and Wear coast?
Dogs can enjoy a paddle or swim in some areas of the Tyne and Wear coastline, but you should always check local restrictions and assess the conditions first. Be particularly careful around strong currents, tides, deep water, slippery rocks and steep riverbanks. Around the coast, never let your dog enter the water if conditions look unsafe, and keep them away from areas with dangerous currents or exposed cliffs. -
What are the best easy dog walks in Tyne and Wear?
For an easy-going dog walk, try Jesmond Dene, Saltwell Park, Watergate Forest Park or the coastal paths around Tynemouth and Cullercoats. These routes offer relatively gentle terrain and a mixture of woodland, parks, riverside paths and seaside scenery, making them ideal for a relaxed stroll with your dog. -
Are there stile-free dog walks in Tyne and Wear?
Yes. Many of Tyne and Wear's coastal and urban park walks are largely stile-free, making them particularly convenient if you're looking for an easier route with your dog. Promenade and coastal routes around Tynemouth, Cullercoats and Whitley Bay, as well as walks through parks such as Saltwell Park, offer mostly straightforward paths. -
Where can I find dog walks with parking and toilets?
Several popular walking spots in Tyne and Wear have nearby car parks and facilities, including Jesmond Dene, Rising Sun Country Park, Herrington Country Park, Souter Lighthouse and Gibside. It's worth checking the facilities before setting off, particularly if you're planning a longer walk, as toilets and opening hours can vary. -
What should I take on a long dog walk?
For a longer walk, pack fresh water and a collapsible bowl, dog poo bags, treats, a lead and spare towel. A long line can also be useful if you're walking somewhere where your dog needs more freedom but must remain under control. For coastal or countryside routes, check the weather and tide times beforehand and take a fully charged phone, suitable footwear and a basic first-aid kit. -
Where can I stay with my dog in Tyne and Wear?
For a dog-friendly break, look for accommodation that welcomes dogs and makes it easy to get out and explore. The Inn Collection Group has dog-friendly inns across Northern England, giving you a comfortable base for exploring the coast, countryside and attractions around Tyne and Wear. You can enjoy a proper pub meal, a cosy room and plenty of walkies on your doorstep - the perfect combination for a dog-friendly getaway.
Explore more dog walks across Northern England and Wales
Ready to explore beyond Tyne and Wear? From rugged coastlines and rolling countryside to woodland trails and mountain paths, discover more dog-friendly walks across Northern England and Wales. Find your next adventure, with plenty of tail-wagging trails to choose from.
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Browse our dog-friendly inns in Tyne and Wear, where the whole family can fit right inn...