Pawsitive Resolutions: How walking your dog in the nation’s forests can boost your wellbeing this New Year

January is National Walk Your Dog Month, the perfect time to celebrate our four-legged friends and the joy they bring to our lives. As we kick off 2025, what better way to show our pups some love than by exploring the nation’s beautiful forests together?

Our dogs do so much for us, from boosting our mood and keeping us active, to being loyal companions through thick and thin. Research shows that dog walking not only keeps our furry friends healthy but also improves our own physical and mental wellbeing. A forest walk with your dog can reduce stress, boost energy levels, and create lasting memories together.

"January is an ideal time to start healthy habits for you and your dog," says Bridgette Hall, Forestry England’s Head of Recreation. "The nation’s forests offer endless opportunities for adventure, from gentle woodland strolls to more challenging forest trails. The natural environment is wonderfully enriching for dogs, with new smells, sights and experiences around every corner. So, whether you’re wheeling or walking with your four-legged friend, we’ve got the perfect route for you and give you a warm welcome this New Year.”

Top picks for paw-some forest adventures

Cumbria, Forestry England Grizedale

Fancy a climb with your canine? The 5km Carron Crag Trail offers breathtaking views of the Lake District, Howgills and Morecambe Bay. At 314 metres high, it's a proper adventure with unique forest sculptures along the way. Stop to admire them while you and your furry friend have well-deserved treat! Parking charges apply. Forestry England members can park for free.

Cumbria, Forestry England Whinlatter

Explore England’s only true mountain forest with your four-legged friend! If you’re looking for a shorter walk packed with adventure than the 1.6km Revelin Moss Trail’s the one for you. Head over the crossing from the visitor centre and enjoy a riverside walk under the backdrop of the mighty Grisedale Pike.

Extra special: Forest Walkies with Wallace & Gromit

Make your forest visit even more fun by trying one of our Forest Walkies with Wallace & Gromit trails. Available at 21 forests across England, these special trails include fun challenges for you and your dog, photo opportunities, interactive activities and a chance to win a £1,500 Forest Holidays break.

Starting healthy habits can be as simple as exploring a new forest trail with your faithful friend. Our forests are open all year round, offering different experiences with each season. From frosty morning walks to peaceful afternoon strolls, there's always something new to discover.

Remember to follow our forest dog code - keep your dog in sight, bag their poo and either put it in a bin if available or take it home with you. Please also follow signs to keep everyone safe and happy and protect the wonderful wildlife around you.

Forestry England national membership means you and your dog can have even more wonderful walks in hundreds of forests across England while supporting our work to care for the forests we all love. You can find out more about becoming a member at forestryengland.uk.