Dog-friendly things to do in the Lake District in winter
Date published: 19 Dec 2025
The Lake District is a joy in any season, but winter brings a special kind of magic. Think frosty fells, peaceful lakes, twinkling village lights and cosy pubs with crackling fires. It’s the perfect time for a break with your four-legged best mate, especially if you both enjoy your walkies with fewer crowds and more winter sparkle.
Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, rainy-day attractions or somewhere warm to curl up after a long wander, here are the best things to do in the Lake District in winter with your dog.
1. Discover scenic winter walks (without the summer crowds!)
Winter is the Lakes at its most peaceful. The footpaths are quieter, the views crisper, and you’ll often feel like you have whole valleys to yourselves – ideal for dogs who love to stop, sniff and supervise.
Here are some of our winter-friendly favourites:
Friar’s Crag, Keswick
A gentle lakeside stroll with spectacular views over Derwentwater. Perfect if your pup prefers a relaxed trot rather than a strenuous climb.
Grasmere to Rydal Water Loop
An accessible circular route with picture-perfect winter reflections. It’s beautiful without being too challenging – and the lakeshore paths are great for dogs.
Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge
Flat, scenic and suitable even when the weather turns. There’s a dog-friendly café at the end too, which is basically the canine equivalent of winning the lottery.
Safety tip:
Winter conditions can be unpredictable, so leave the icy summits to the experts and stick to safer low-level routes unless you're fully prepared. Plus, don’t forget to pop a towel in your bag for muddy paws and maybe a dog coat if yours feels the cold.
2. Wander dog-friendly towns and villages
When the weather’s chilly, nothing beats exploring charming Lakeland villages – many of which go all-out with fairy lights and festive atmosphere well into the new year.
Arguably the UK’s most dog-friendly town. Many shops welcome dogs inside, and almost every pub and café seems to have a biscuit tin behind the counter.
A great winter hub with lovely shops, cafés, and some sheltered short walks. Stock Ghyll Force is a lovely nearby waterfall, especially dramatic after winter rain.
Small, peaceful and beautifully wintry. Grab some famous gingerbread and treat your dog to a stroll around the village’s quiet lanes.
A postcard-perfect village with cobbled streets, cosy pubs and lots of dog-friendly spots to warm up in.
3. Cosy up in dog-friendly pubs and cafés
Winter holidays require at least one pub session, ideally with your dog snoozing by the fire like the very best boy or girl.
Some dog-friendly winter warmers include:
- The Dog & Gun, Keswick – Hugely welcoming to pups, excellent comfort food, and always lively.
- The Britannia Inn, Elterwater – A cracking traditional pub with real fires, perfect after a valley walk.
- The Ship Inn, Bowness – Cosy, friendly and great after windy lakeside strolls.
- Chesters by the River, Ambleside – Trendy, delicious, and dog-friendly in certain areas.
4. Take a dog-friendly boat trip
Winter cruises are peaceful, atmospheric and surprisingly cosy – and yes, most boats welcome dogs.
Windermere Lake Cruises
Dogs can board for a small fee. A great way to enjoy the scenery without braving icy winds on the fells.
Derwentwater Launch
Dogs ride for free, and you can hop on and off at landing stages for mini-walks.
Coniston Launch
A quieter, more serene trip with beautiful winter views.
5. Enjoy dog-friendly indoor and sheltered attractions
Because let’s be honest: sometimes the winter rain in Cumbria arrives sideways. When that happens, these attractions are absolute life-savers.
Lakeland Motor Museum, Backbarrow
A brilliant indoor museum that allows dogs inside. You can wander through classic cars, motorbikes and quirky motoring memorabilia while staying warm and dry. Perfect for a rainy afternoon, and dogs are welcome on a lead throughout.
The Armitt Museum, Ambleside
Dogs are welcome inside this small, relaxed spot. It’s full of local history, art and artefacts. Ideal for a slow, peaceful hour learning about the area without leaving your pup outside.
Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (“La’al Ratty”)
A lovely heritage railway where dogs are not only allowed but positively welcomed. It’s warm, cosy, and a gentle way to see the dramatic winter landscapes without needing to climb a single hill.
The Puzzling Place, Keswick
A super affordable way to spend an afternoon. And dogs are free. Make your way from the anti-gravity room to the sideways room, before checking out the exhibition full of optical illusions and interactive artwork.
6. Chase waterfalls at their wintry best
Winter rain may mean muddy paws, but it also means waterfalls at full, dramatic power.
- Aira Force – Spectacular and accessible, with good winter paths.
- Stock Ghyll Force – Just a short walk from Ambleside and great for gloomy days.
- Rydal Falls – Peaceful and picturesque, with a tearoom nearby for warming up.
Just make sure to keep dogs on leads near fast-flowing water and slippery paths (we don’t need any accidental doggy dives!).
7. Enjoy a snuggly dog-friendly cottage stay
One of the best parts of a winter holiday? Returning to a warm, inviting cottage after a chilly walk. Think hot chocolate, log burners and your dog snoozing happily in “their” spot (which, let's be honest, is usually your spot).
Whether you choose a rustic stone cottage or a modern retreat with fell views, the Lake District is full of dog-friendly homes where you can relax in comfort. So before you grab the lead and your warmest coat, have a browse of our dog-friendly cottages in the Lakes.
Meet the author
Annabel JacksonAnnabel loves exploring new parts of the UK with her family, including French bulldog, Albie. They’re regular visitors to North Wales and Norfolk, but have also made some paw-some memories in the Peak District, Cotswolds, Highlands and Cornwall.
