TAKING A LEAD: BEST DOG WALKS
AS we move even further into autumn, it’s a great time to get out and about for a bracing walk with the dog, writes OONAGH ROBINSON. We’ve picked out some wonderful parks to cater for you and your pooch:
BRADGATE PARK, Leicester
Stunning parkland incorporating a riverside walk and the ruined house of Lady Jane Grey, with fantastic opportunities to let your dog off the lead, as long as you remain aware of deer and horse riders. SatNav: LE6 0HE.
BRAMCOTE PARK, Nottingham
Great open space just a stone’s throw from both Nottingham and Derby, with smashing play area and a huge open space for your dog to run around without having to worry about main roads. SatNav: NG9 3JP.
SHIPLEY COUNTRY PARK, Derbyshire
Includes several miles of nice, flat paths, with a safe, shady track around lovely Mapperley Reservoir and a super visitor centre where your puppy can make new friends. SatNav: DE75 7GX.
WOLLATON PARK, Nottingham
The site of Wayne Manor in the recent Batman films, otherwise known as Wollaton Hall. You’ll find lots of paths, woods, a lake and green spaces and you can let your dog off the lead everywhere except fenced areas where the deer live. SatNav: NG8 2AE.
ALLESTREE PARK, Derby
Large space with woodland walks, paved paths and a lake. There’s also a golf course, so just be sure to avoid getting in the way. SatNav: DE22 2ET.
RUSHCLIFFE COUNTRY PARK, Nottinghamshire
A brilliant spot for all dog owners with a network of around eight kilometres of footpaths, grassland, conservation and landscaped areas. SatNav: NG11 6JS.
MARKET BOSWORTH COUNTRY PARK, Leicestershire
Includes a huge section of open grassland which is great for a general run around with your pet, plus there are woodland walks, an arboretum and a fab cafe. SatNav: CV13 0LP.
GEDLING COUNTRY PARK, Nottinghamshire
One of the newer open spaces in the region, which hit the headlines when it introduced designated dog zones to avoid incidents with the local livestock. Just stick to the signs and you’ll be fine. SatNav: NG4 4PE.
CALKE ABBEY, Derbyshire
Take in the lovely parkland around the historic abbey and then have a cuppa in the cafe. Dogs aren’t allowed inside the house but are welcome elsewhere. SatNav: DE73 7LE.