Best dog walks in Charlcombe and Lansdown

Charlcombe and Lansdown sit above Bath on the north side of the city. The area is a patchwork of meadows, woodland, quiet lanes, and open hilltop fields with views across the Avon valley. For dogs, it is one of the best walking areas near Bath.

I walk dogs here every day. These are the routes I use most often, chosen for their variety, safety, and the fact that dogs love them.

Charlcombe Valley

The valley runs north from Charlcombe Lane towards Woolley. It is sheltered, green, and quiet. The lower sections follow a stream through meadows, and the higher ground opens up into fields with good visibility in all directions.

Dogs can run off-lead safely in most of the valley. The ground is soft underfoot and there is shade in summer from the hedgerows and woodland edges. In winter, parts can be muddy after rain, but the higher paths drain well.

This is my most-used route for group walks. It offers everything a dog needs: space, variety, water, and interesting smells.

Lansdown Fields

Lansdown sits above the city at around 230 metres. The fields along the top are open, well-drained, and ideal for energetic dogs who need to stretch their legs. On a clear day, you can see across to the Mendips and beyond.

The ground is firmer here than in the valley, which makes it a better option in wet weather. It is more exposed to wind, so I tend to use this route on calmer days or when the dogs need a longer, more demanding walk.

Livestock are sometimes present, so I keep dogs on-lead where necessary and always check fields before entering.

Charlcombe Lane circular

Starting from Charlcombe Lane, this route heads north through quiet lanes before dropping into fields and looping back via footpaths. It is a mix of on-lead road walking and off-lead field sections.

This route is particularly good for dogs who need a combination of structured lead walking and free running. The lanes are quiet with minimal traffic, and the field sections are well fenced.

Woolley Valley extension

For longer walks, I extend into the Woolley Valley to the north. This adds an extra 20 to 30 minutes and takes the walk through more open farmland and along the edge of Woolley village.

This extension is ideal for high-energy dogs or small groups that need a longer outing. The terrain is rolling and varied, with a mix of pasture, arable land, and hedgerow-lined footpaths.

Tips for walking in Charlcombe and Lansdown

• Take water — there is no public water supply on most of these routes
• Check for livestock before letting your dog off-lead in any field
• Stick to footpaths during lambing season (typically March to May)
• In wet weather, the valley paths can be slippery — boots are recommended
• Some fields have stiles rather than gates, so larger dogs may need a lift

Want someone to walk your dog here?

I walk dogs in Charlcombe and Lansdown every day. If you live in this area and want a reliable, insured dog walker, book a free meet-and-greet and I'll come to your home.

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