Wonderful dog walks in Scotland

Perfect dog-walking places

If your number one Google search is ‘best dog-friendly walks near me’ then we’re here to help. We’ve counted up all of our favourite dog-friendly places and grouped them by location so that with this handy list you can find the perfect dog-walking place in a flash. And don’t forget: with a Trust membership you can get free access to all of our places.

Here’s why the Trust’s places make such a great choice for dog walks:

All our countryside properties, country parks, estates – and some of our gardens – are a dream for dogs to explore. Whether they’re sniffing through the grass or paddling in the water, you’re guaranteed a happy hound.
There’s always a variety of well-maintained paths for you to choose from. You can pick the walk that’s right for you and your dog, whether you fancy a short stroll or a hearty hike.
Enjoy some peace and quiet away from busy public spaces. Our outdoor places are a haven away from the hustle and bustle, meaning you and your dog can enjoy the serenity of your surroundings and go home feeling fully relaxed.
There’s lots to see and do for people too! Our places are perfect for families, with spectacular views, tons of wildlife and cosy cafés for a post-walk treat.
Visiting supports the Trust and its work. Not only will you enjoy a fantastic day out, you’ll also be helping us take care of Scotland’s heritage and landscapes.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab the lead and some treats (and don’t forget the poo bags) … it’s time for walkies!

A black and white border collie sits at the top of a mountain on a large rock. Behind is a ridge path leading to another summit. Many other mountains and a loch can be seen in the background. The dog wears a purple collar with a paw print locket.

Dog walks in the Highlands

If you’re visiting the Highlands (or you’re lucky enough to live there all year round) there’s a wealth of options to choose from, including places like Mar Lodge Estate and Torridon that are home to some of Scotland’s most famous scenery and wildlife.

Perhaps the best of all our dog-friendly places in the Highlands is Balmacara Estate, which overlooks Skye on the western coast and has a great reputation with dog owners. There are miles of open countryside, coastline and woodland to explore, with paths leading from Kyle of Lochalsh and Loch Achaidh na h-Inich to Balmacara Square, where dogs are given the warmest of welcomes – it was even awarded the title of ‘most dog-friendly Trust property’!

A row of white-washed cottages line a country road, with a stream in the foreground and the sea in the background.

Duirinish village at Balmacara

Dog walks near Glasgow

Dogs and their owners can escape the city in all directions. In under an hour you can reach Ben Lomond, Dollar Glen and Bannockburn.

But our favourite dog-friendly place near Glasgow is Culzean Castle, which has everything you need in one spectacular spot. There are trails galore winding through the country park, woodland and walled garden, and a beach where happy dogs can splash to their heart’s content. Along the way you’ll see all kinds of interesting historic buildings and plants, and there’s loads of wildlife to look out for too.

A close-up of the head and chest of a boxer, with the statue of Robert the Bruce on a horse looming behind him. It’s a sunny day.

Alfie the boxer at Bannockburn

Two women walking along a beach with the tide out, with a black dog walking behind them.

Dog walks in Perthshire

There’s a raft of dog-friendly places in Perthshire, including the historic site of Killiecrankie and the sprawling Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve.

One of our favourite walks is the 1.5 mile route at The Hermitage, which winds through a forest of Douglas firs past Ossian’s Hall and the rumbling Black Linn Falls. With lots of paths to take you all over the property, you can roam at your own pace, following in the footsteps of famous visitors like Queen Victoria and William Wordsworth.

Head and shoulders of a black dog with a red collar near the top of a hill at Ben Lawers with a cairn in the background.

Cuillin the labrador at the top of Ben Lawers

A man walking through a woodland of tall Douglas firs. Sunlight is streaming through the trees.

Dog walks in Aberdeenshire

There are some beautiful castles in Aberdeenshire, and they all have dog-friendly grounds. Fyvie Castle and Castle Fraser are both great options with lots of open space and plenty for the kids to do too.

At Crathes Castles, Garden & Estate you and your pooch can explore nature trails and wonderful woodlands that were once part of the Royal Forest of Drum. Keep an eye out for red squirrels and woodpeckers, and let the kids run wild in the adventure playground. Afterwards, treat yourself to something sweet at the café, where dogs are very welcome and we keep some free treats behind the counter.

A smiling girl crouches down and pets a brown and white dog on the lawn in front of Crathes Castle. The dog appears to smile at the girl and sits nicely, her lead lying on the grass beside her.

Tilda the dog at Crathes Castle

A sunny autumn day at Fyvie Loch, with the trees at the far side showing their autumn colours. The trees are reflected in the still water.

Dog walks near Inverness

You can get to all kinds of places from Inverness in under an hour, from the wilds of West Affric to the dramatic Corrieshalloch Gorge.

For something less remote head to beautiful Brodie Castle, which is one of our more colourful and quirky places and always a hit with families. You can enjoy one of the easy-going walks past the pond and the Playful Garden, and spend some time spotting the interesting animals and plants that live on the estate!