Carsington Water Visitor

Carsington Water is one of the best dog-friendly days out near Ashbourne when the holiday plan calls for big views, proper leg-stretching and a dog who would quite like to sniff the entire Derbyshire countryside in one go. Set in the Peak District area just outside town, this huge reservoir is wrapped by around eight miles of walking trails through woodland, fields and open waterside scenery, making it ideal for everything from a steady potter to a full "we've definitely earned lunch" loop.

There's also a visitor centre with shops, toilets and places to eat and drink, which helps when the weather does its usual British improvisation. Dogs are welcome here, though they do need to stay on a lead, so it works best for scenic wanders, fresh-air resets and a very satisfied post-walk flop.

Whether you're after a short waterside stroll or a full reservoir circuit, Carsington Water delivers the kind of Peak District day out that leaves both paws and people happily tired.