Walk Your Dog Month: January 2021

With the cold, wet weather dog walking can be perceived as a chore rather than an enjoyable way to pass the time. However, during lockdown (*) it is more important than ever to get outside and get some fresh air to start the day with a positive mindset. The January walk your dog month initiative was created to tackle pet obesity, as in the UK almost 12% of the dogs owned are overweight! We’ve got some fun London based walks to help jazz up your dog walking routines. So, grab your leads and treats and get ready!

Plus…you can win an Annual Pass with The View from The Shard
Make sure to take your camera and tag us if you see The View from The Shard on your January walks (@shardview) and use the #ShardView for a chance to win an annual pass!

THE BEST DOG WALKS IN LONDON  

The Thames Path
Get your hiking boots on and enjoy this long distance walking route, following England’s most famous river for 184 miles- although we don’t suggest you walk the whole length! This trial begins in the Cotswolds and finishes in central London. This trial has it all; peaceful countryside, delightful villages and buzzing city views. If you are based in central London, we recommend walking the Putney to Tower Bridge route which is around 10 miles in length, dramatically concluding in front of the Tower of London and The Shard.

Parkland Walk

Looking for a break from London’s concrete jungle? Try out the longest Linear Nature Reserve in London which is 4.5 miles in length which follows the course of a neglected railway line that in its prime connected Finsbury Park and Alexandra Palace, opening back in 1873. This peaceful trial is great for spotting wildlife and wildflowers, with over 200 species being recorded there. We’d recommend beginning your walk at Alexandra Palace Way and following the route through Muswell Hill, Highgate and Crouch Hill Park, before finishing at Finsbury Park.

Regents Canal

This 8.6 mile walk, named after the Prince Regent, offers an oasis of tranquillity and an escape from the busy capital. This walk begins at Little Venice and ends in Docklands and is one of London’s best-kept secrets. Make sure you bring your camera to capture your furry friend with some of the capitals most famous landmarks!

The Jubilee Walkway (Eastern Loop)

This is a section of the Jubilee Walkway, called the Jubilee Eastern Loop Walk, offering a 5 mile circular trip around some of London’s most iconic buildings and sights. Begin at the Tate Modern and finish outside St Pauls Cathedral, make sure you look up for a glimpse of the tallest building in western Europe, The Shard.

Hampstead Heath Circular Walk

This 4 mile walk is perfect for those crisp winter morning walks. It begins in Hampstead High street and loops back around through Hampstead’s most pleasant streets. Keep your eyes peeled for the fearless swimmers taking on the Heath’s famous bathing ponds, regardless of the chilly January weather! Perhaps your furry pal will join them for a cool down.

Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk

One for the royalists, this 7 mile walk takes you past famous buildings and locations associated with the Princess during her life. This route celebrates the Princesses love for open spaces and her love of children. This includes four of the Royal Parks; St. James Park, Green Park, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. As well as viewing three palaces and two mansions which shaped the life of the Princess; Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, St James Palace and Spencer House. Look out for the rose emblemed plaques guiding the walkers along the route.

(*) Read the full up-to-date rules effective in England here. Those relevant to visiting green space include you:

• must not leave, or be outside of your home except where necessary.
• may leave your home to exercise once per day.
• may exercise outside of your home with your household (or support bubble) or with one other person,
• should not travel outside your local area, but you can travel a short distance within your area to exercise if necessary (for example, to access an open space).
• must wear a face covering in most enclosed public settings, unless you have an exemption
• should follow the rules on meeting others safely
• must not go out for exercise if you are experiencing any coronavirus symptoms, are self-isolating as a result of coronavirus symptoms, are sharing a household or support bubble with somebody with symptoms, or have been told to self-isolate after being contacted by NHS Test and Trace.”