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Durham is known for its scenic rivers, serene lakes, and beautiful countryside—perfect settings for dogs who love the water. With a mix of peaceful riverside retreats and picturesque reservoirs, Durham has plenty of spots where you and your dog can enjoy a day of swimming and adventure. Here are the top five dog-friendly swimming spots in Durham for a refreshing day out.
1. Riverside Park in Chester-le-Street
Riverside Park, nestled along the banks of the River Wear, is a lovely park with scenic areas where dogs can safely enjoy the water. The park has designated spots along the river where dogs can paddle and play, with shallow, calm sections that make it easy for them to enter and exit the water. With expansive green spaces, Riverside Park is an ideal spot for a picnic and a day of fun.
After a dip in the river, explore the park’s walking paths or enjoy views of Lumley Castle, which overlooks the area.
Nearby Amenities: Riverside Park has parking, restrooms, picnic spots, and a café with outdoor seating.
Google Maps Address: Riverside Park - Chester-le-Street
2. Derwent Reservoir
Located near Consett, Derwent Reservoir is a large, tranquil body of water surrounded by woodlands and hills. Dogs are welcome in designated swimming areas along the reservoir, where they can paddle and cool off. With clear, calm water and plenty of space, Derwent Reservoir offers a safe environment for water-loving dogs.
The walking trails around the reservoir provide stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for both swimming and exploration.
Nearby Amenities: There’s parking, picnic areas, and restrooms, with a café in the nearby village of Edmundbyers.
Google Maps Address: Derwent Reservoir
3. Hardwick Park
Hardwick Park in Sedgefield is a historic park with a beautiful lake where dogs are allowed to swim in designated spots. The park is known for its scenic lakeside paths, unique stone bridges, and picturesque woodland areas. The lake is shallow near the edges, making it a safe place for dogs to paddle and cool off on warm days.
With wide open spaces, beautiful gardens, and shaded trails, Hardwick Park is a fantastic spot for a full day out with your dog.
Nearby Amenities: Hardwick Park has on-site parking, a visitor center, restrooms, and a café with outdoor seating.
Google Maps Address: Hardwick Park - Sedgefield
4. High Force Waterfall and the River Tees
High Force, one of England’s most famous waterfalls, offers a stunning riverside experience in the North Pennines. While dogs can’t swim directly near the waterfall due to its strength, there are calmer, accessible areas of the River Tees further downstream where dogs can safely enjoy the water. The river’s gentle flow in these spots makes it a great place for dogs to cool off while you admire the impressive landscape.
The riverside trails provide scenic walks with views of High Force and the surrounding Pennine countryside, perfect for adventurous pups and their owners.
Nearby Amenities: There’s parking, a visitor center, and restrooms near High Force, with dog-friendly pubs in the nearby village of Middleton-in-Teesdale.
Google Maps Address: High Force Waterfall - River Tees
5. Cow Green Reservoir
Situated in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Cow Green Reservoir is a remote, peaceful location ideal for dogs that enjoy nature and open water. The reservoir has designated dog-friendly spots where they can paddle in the calm, clear water. Surrounded by rugged moorland, Cow Green offers a breathtaking landscape for a quiet day out with your dog.
With its isolated setting, Cow Green Reservoir is perfect for a peaceful outing, and the nearby walking trails provide scenic views of the Pennine countryside.
Nearby Amenities: There is limited parking, so pack essentials for a day out. Nearby Middleton-in-Teesdale has dog-friendly cafes and shops.
Google Maps Address: Cow Green Reservoir
Essentials for a Dog-Friendly Day in Durham
To make the most of your outing, remember these essentials:
- Training Collar: A training collar from Calmshops is great for managing your dog in open spaces.
- Fresh Water and Bowl: Fresh water is essential, especially if your dog has been in rivers or reservoirs.
- Towel and Blanket: A towel for drying off and a cozy blanket make the day more comfortable for your pup.
- Car seat dog cover: Kepp your car clean with waterproof car seat dog cover. Place an order on Amazon
5 Other dog friendly swimming sports in Durnham:
Seaham Beach
Description: Seaham Beach is a long stretch of sand beneath grassy cliffs, part of the Durham Heritage Coast. It's renowned for its sea glass and offers ample space for dogs to run and play. Dogs are welcome year-round, making it an ideal spot for a seaside adventure.
Nearby Amenities: Parking is available near the beach, and the nearby town of Seaham offers dog-friendly cafes and shops.
Blackhall Rocks Beach
Description: Situated on the Durham Heritage Coast, Blackhall Rocks Beach features a mix of sand and rocks, backed by cliffs and dunes. It's a peaceful spot where dogs can enjoy the shoreline and shallow waters. The beach is dog-friendly year-round.
Nearby Amenities: Limited facilities; it's advisable to bring your own provisions. Parking is available near the beach.
Crimdon Park Beach
Description: Located just north of Hartlepool, Crimdon Park Beach is a pleasant sandy stretch backed by dunes. It's a quiet spot, perfect for dogs to run and play. The beach is dog-friendly year-round.
Nearby Amenities: Parking is available near the beach, and there are picnic areas nearby.
Easington Colliery Nature Reserve & Beach
Description: This nature reserve offers a mix of coastal landscapes, including a beach where dogs can play and swim. The peaceful atmosphere and variety of terrains make it an enjoyable spot for dogs and their owners.
Nearby Amenities: Parking is available at the reserve's car park. The nearby village of Easington Colliery has cafes and shops.
Horden Beach
Description: Horden Beach is a quiet, lesser-known beach with a mix of sand and pebbles, backed by cliffs. It's a tranquil spot where dogs can enjoy the open space and shoreline. The beach is dog-friendly year-round.
Nearby Amenities: Limited facilities; it's advisable to bring your own provisions. Parking is available near the beach
FInal Run
From the scenic shores of Derwent Reservoir to the iconic landscape near High Force, Durham’s dog-friendly swimming spots offer some of the best outdoor experiences for water-loving dogs. Each location provides a unique combination of natural beauty, tranquility, and space to explore. So pack your essentials, pick a spot, and enjoy the beauty of Durham with your furry friend by your side!
