The best places to walk the dog in West Bridgford

Edwalton Golf Course

If you have not explored Edwalton Golf Course you are missing out! It's public access and offers several paths and loops - a great place to walk the dog. Plenty of woods and great views whatever the weather. From here we can extend wakies through to Gamston canal or to Tollerton and it's fields (please be aware this requires crossing the busy A52 between footpaths) Just watch out for the low flying balls! Image credit: glendalegolf.co.uk

Gamston Canal

A stretch of serentity nestled between Gamston and West Bridgford. This old stretch of Canal is no longer navigable, however it now provides host to a variety of wildlife, trees and plants. Easy accessed and with several route options, its a big favourite of ours. Dogs should be on lead here as you need to watch out for the Swans who are prone to snap during the summer months as they raise their cygnets!

West Bridgford Park

Probably the most famous and well known spot for dog walking, West Bridgford Park is a lovely place to spend an hour or so with your dog. With wide open fields, trees and wooded areas it's a no brainer. A great place for your dog to socialise with other dogs too. Try the large field past the Tennis courts as you are more likely to meet other dogs here. Also don't miss the elevated old train line in the far corner (also see the Green Line). There is also a great cafe serving snacks, hot drinks and usually with dog water bowls outside.

The Green Line

Somewhat of a secret dog walking spot, this old railway line starts in West Bridgford Park, however the main stretch can be accessed from Melton Road next to the Sainsbury's petrol station

Once you have climbed the steps, the path runs in a straight line all the way to Boundary round where you have to climb some steep steps before rejoining a smaller stretch across the road next door to Rushcliffe school. This then continues towards Edwalton (interesting fact - there used to be an Edwalton train station here!)

The green line can be used to link central West Bridgford to both Edwalton Golf Course and Sharp Hill for a long walkies.

We love the Green Line because of the tranquility it gives despite being in the middle of suburbia!

Sharp Hill

Often muddy, and with plenty of slippery roots in Winter, this wood perched high above West Bridgford provides both amazing views and access to dense woodland with multiple walking loops. Be wary in high winds or bad weather as it can be difficult under foot. Dogs love it here, but make sure their recall is good as it's easy for them to get out of sight very quickly!

Sharp Hill provides access through to the Green Line and Edwalton Golf course for a longer walkies. You also have the lovely Edwalton garden centre nearby for food. Dogs are allowed in the centre and at outside seating at the cafe.

The Hook

Between Lady Bay and the River Trent, you can access the Hook. A local nature reserve with fields, grasses, trees and a variety of paths. For the more active dogs, you have the option of continuing to walk easily to Holme Pierrpont Water Sports area, or in the opposite direction back towards the Victoria Embankment. We love coming here on a crisp blue sky winters day to see the early morning mist on the fields, and the swans floating downstream.

Holme Pierrepont Watersports

A well known dog walking spot for longer adventures. The 5km loop around the lake is a lovely Sunday morning favourite though be wary the wind always seems to blow in your face on the return leg! With access to really interesting woods at the bottom end and easy access through to Skylarks nature reserve (see below) and options to watch the rowing or Canoe slalom it's in the top three dog walking spots in West Bridgford.

Skylarks nature reserve

Skylarks nature reserve is another somewhat unknown spot. A former gravel pit, this is now an outstanding habitat to a variety of animals and birds. With numerous paths and a great longer 2.5km loop, it needs to be on your list to visit with your dog. Dogs are recommended to be on lead here. Please visit nottinghamshirewildlife for details on Skylarks.

Victoria Embankment & River Trent

Built at the end of the 19th century, the victoria embankment is the park adjacent to the river trent and the well known suspension bridge. You'll find lots of mature trees lining the river and park. A great place for your dog to play in the leaves during autumn. There is access to large open fields and an easy 5km loop around the river with amazing views. There are pubs and cafes at either end, though you may need to sit outside.

For the more adventurous, you can link this walk with the hook in Lady bay, and onwards to Holme Pierrepont.