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Herefordshire Walks for Dogs: Poppy and Miso’s Ruff Guide​

Dog-friendly holiday cottages Herefordshire Ruff Guide
If your dream getaway includes fresh country air, wagging tails, and unhurried walks through cider orchards, oak woodlands, and hidden valleys, you’re in the right place.
 
White House Cottages is surrounded by some of Herefordshire’s most beautiful walking routes, and Poppy and Miso—the best trail testers we know—have already sniffed out the best ones for you and your four-legged pal. So, lace up your boots, grab the lead, and get ready to roam!

Dog Walks from Our Door

Poppy’s Wide-Awake Walk – Putley Loop & Orchards (3 miles)

This loop is perfect for shaking off the cobwebs and getting that tail wagging. In spring, the orchard paths are a sea of blossom, while in autumn there’s a sweet scent of ripening apples in the air. Your pups will love it!

Following part of the Herefordshire Trail, the route takes you west across open grazing fields, through traditional apple orchards, and into the charming village of Putley. A peaceful country lane leads you gently back home, with plenty of spots to take in the views and catch your breath.

Miso’s Big Stretch – Putley Orchards, Mains Wood (5 miles)

For times when you both need more of a stretch, Miso suggests an extended version of the Putley Loop.

It takes you further into the surrounding countryside, passing Putley Church—once part of a Roman villa—before winding below Putley Court and into the rolling fields of Fosbury Fruit Farm.

From there, you’ll climb into Priggles Wood, an ancient woodland that bursts with bluebells, wood anemones, and wild herbs in spring. The route winds back through Mains Wood, a Forestry Commission-managed area perfect for an off-lead roam (just watch for the occasional deer!).

The One with All the Trees and Critters – Ast Wood (3 miles)

Ast Wood is one of those places where time slows down. It’s an ancient oak woodland, where the air feels cooler and quieter, almost like nature’s secret haven. At least until Poppy and Miso arrive and start bouncing around!

The walk from White House Cottages takes you through open fields before gently climbing into the heart of the wood. If you visit in spring, you’ll see bluebells and wild daffodils carpeting the forest floor. It’s the perfect little loop to rest and reset.

Herefordshire dog walk

Dog-Friendly Pubs & Walks in Herefordshire

For us, the best walks have a cosy pub in the middle! Herefordshire is home to some wonderful dog-friendly pubs where you can settle in for a well-earned pint (and maybe a few sneaky treats for your pup). We’ve put together our Not-So-Secret Seven pub walks—starting with shorter jaunts and working up to a full day’s adventure.
 
1. Dog Hill Wood & The Prince of Wales, Ledbury
 

A short but rewarding walk through mature oak, ash, and yew woodland, with fabulous views over Ledbury. The perimeter loop takes around 30 minutes, with an optional extension towards Colwall. Afterward, settle in at The Prince of Wales for a proper cask ale—Miso swears by the pork scratchings. 

2. Wellington Heath Circular & The Farmers Arms (4 miles)

A gentle 4-mile loop taking in woodland trails and the vineyards of Coddington. Stop at The Farmers Arms for a pint afterward. Just check the opening hours first! 

3. Marcle Ridge Circular & The Butchers Arms / Crown Inn, Woolhope (6.5 miles)

This is a real leg-stretcher with incredible views over the Black Mountains and Malvern Hills. You can start and finish at either pub—both are excellent. The Butchers Arms is known for its real ales, while The Crown Inn serves up hearty meals that really hit the spot after walking this route. 

4. Staplow & The Oak Inn (5.7 miles)

There’s a great circular walk from Staplow to Bosbury and back, ideal for a lazy afternoon ramble. The Oak Inn is a welcoming stop-off, with a dog-friendly bar and a roaring fire in winter. 

5. Hoarwithy & The Cottage of Content (12.4 miles)

 A historic walk featuring three ancient churches, a Victorian suspension bridge, and a riverside route through the Wye Valley. End with a pint at The Cottage of Content—if you’re lucky, you’ll meet Ruby, the pub’s famously chilled-out Labrador. 
 

6. Symonds Yat & Ye Old Ferrie Inn (18.3 miles)

A classic Wye Valley circular walk, that takes in a hand-pulled ferry, woodland paths, and gorgeous river views. Ye Old Ferrie Inn sits right on the water—perfect for a frothy pint and a lazy afternoon in the sun. 

7. Symonds Yat Rock & The Saracens Head (7.5 miles)
 
A moderate loop featuring the Iron Age fort at Yat Rock—one of the best vantage points in the Wye Valley—along with quiet forest trails and breathtaking views. Peregrine falcons are often spotted here, so keep an eye on the sky.

Dog Walks Around Herefordshire

The Big One – Exploring the Malvern Hills with Your Dog
 
On special days, Poppy and Miso hop in the car and stretch their legs in new places and if they had to pick a favourite, the Malvern Hills would be top of the list.
 
An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the hills provide a range of routes, from gentle climbs to energetic hikes.
 
The Worcestershire Beacon is the highest point, with a well-marked path leading to panoramic views stretching across Herefordshire and beyond. The British Camp, an ancient hillfort, is another must-see, with the defensive earthworks providing historical intrigue alongside the breathtaking scenery.
 
Many routes are dog-friendly, though leads are recommended in areas with grazing livestock. Be sure to bring water, as some sections of the hills are quite exposed, especially in summer.
 
Symonds Yat
 
A Day at Symonds Yat – One of the Best Places to Walk in Herefordshire For a dog walk with serious wow-factor, head to Symonds Yat—one of the most spectacular spots in the Wye Valley. With towering limestone cliffs and a river that twists its way through the landscape, it’s got trails for every kind of walker.
 
Symonds Yat Rock is the place for jaw-dropping views, and if you’re lucky, you might spot peregrine falcons riding the thermals overhead. If you prefer a gentler stroll, the riverside paths are perfect for a wander. Miso and Poppy always find plenty of spots to paddle in the shallows.
Couples weekend away near Ledbury walking hills

Dog Walking Tips for Herefordshire

  • The AllTrails app is great for navigation. Just download your routes before heading out.
  • Always keep your dog on a lead in fields with livestock.
  • Close gates behind you.
  • Most local pubs welcome dogs, but it’s worth checking their opening hours in advance.
  • Remember the Doggy house Rules