Best Dog Walks in Bath: Gentle to Moderate Routes to Lift Your Mood and Fitness

The weather might be cold and damp, but there’s still opportunity to enjoy gentle exercise, fresh air, and quality time with your dog. If you live in or near Bath, or are planning a winter city break with your dog, walking offers an ideal way to stay active without overexertion. Central and surrounding Bath is full of scenic routes perfectly suited to both you and your dog.

At EzyDog UK, we know that keeping fit doesn’t have to mean high-intensity workouts. A steady stroll through Bath’s historic parks, Georgian streets, and riverside paths can do wonders for your health and your dog’s happiness too!

Why Gentle Dog Walks Are Perfect for Retirees or Lower Engery Days 

Dog walking is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to stay fit as you get older. It helps:

• Improve circulation and flexibility

• Boost mood and mental wellbeing

• Maintain a healthy weight for both owner and pet

• Strengthen the bond between you and your dog

With the right gear (such as a comfortable EzyDog harness, shock-absorbing lead, and lightweight dog coat) you can enjoy every walk in comfort and confidence, whatever the weather.

5 Gentle Dog Walking Routes in Central Bath

1. Sydney Gardens & the Kennet and Avon Canal

Start at the Holburne Museum and wander through the tranquil Sydney Gardens, one of the oldest pleasure gardens in England. From there, follow the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath, where you’ll find level, even ground and plenty of benches for rest stops. Ideal for small or older dogs.

Open Route in Google Maps

Distance: Around 2 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Tip: Bring your EzyDog Leaf Dog Waterbottle to keep your dog hydrated and try out our SnakPak to easily carry treats along the route. 

2. Royal Victoria Park and the Crescent Loop

A classic Bath walk with wide open lawns and beautiful views. Begin at Royal Crescent, loop around Royal Victoria Park, and enjoy the floral displays and duck ponds. It’s a peaceful, level route with easy parking and public toilets nearby — perfect for a relaxed stroll.

Open Route in Google Maps

Distance: 1–1.5 miles 

Difficulty: Easy

Tip: The park is dog-friendly year-round; keep leads handy near playground areas.

3. Bath Skyline Walk 

If you’re feeling slightly more adventurous, try a short stretch of the Bath Skyline Walk — National Trust’s famous 6-mile circular route. Start at Bathwick Hill for breathtaking views of the city, but stick to the gentler lower paths for an easier route.

Open Route in Google Maps

Distance: Choose your length, even 1 mile rewards you with stunning scenery.

Difficulty: Gentle to moderate

Tip: Wear good walking shoes and pack your EzyDog Zero Shock Lead for extra comfort on hill sections.

4. Parade Gardens & the Pulteney Bridge Promenade

For a short, elegant city stroll, walk through Parade Gardens and along the River Avon. The gentle riverside paths are flat, scenic, and perfect for a daily outing with smaller or senior dogs.

Open Route in Google Maps

Distance: Less than 1 mile 

Difficulty: Very Easy

Tip: Stop for coffee at a riverside café: many welcome dogs on their terraces.

5. Alexandra Park Viewpoint Walk

If you’re up for a mild climb, head up to Alexandra Park in Bear Flat. The walk to the top is short but rewarding, offering panoramic views of Bath. Take your time, rest as needed, and enjoy a gentle descent through the wooded paths.

Open Route in Google Maps

Distance: Around 1.5 miles 

Difficulty: Moderate, but short climb

Tip: A hands-free EzyDog lead can make the climb more comfortable.

Feeling more adventurous? Try these longer walks 

1.  Avon Riverside Walk Starting at the Riverside & Secret Garden 

This is a lovely walk that leads you across the Bathampton Meadows, linking the city centre to the countryside. The walk starts from Batheaston Gardens along the River Avon.

Cross the river and continue along the riverside path to Bathampton Manor, a beautiful Grade II listed building. From here, stroll across open fields, passing under the main road and later beneath the Great Western Main Line, until you reach  Hampton Row footbridge. When your ready, retrace your steps along the River Avon to return to the starting point.

View Route in Google Maps

Distance: Around 4.2 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Tip: The meadows can get muddy, especially after rain; wear sturdy shoes and bring a towel for your dog. In spring and summer, the area comes alive with wildflowers and birdlife, making it one of Bath’s most peaceful walking spots.

2. Cotswold Way and Limestone Link

This walk connects the Cotswold Way to the Limestone Link path, which itself links the Cotswolds to the Mendip Hills. It features picturesque valleys, rolling hills, and notable houses like Hill Farm and Hamswell House. It's made up of a loop of about 8.2km that descends to Monkswood Reservoir, climbs back up, and then picks up the Cotswold Way before returning to Cold Ashton. 

• Start at Cold Ashton (near the A46/A420 junction) and follow the Limestone Link route down toward the Monkswood Reservoir. 

• Next, ascend past the Reservoir, cross the A46, descend to Tadwick, then join the Cotswold Way back toward Cold Ashton

View Route in Google Maps

Distance: Around 8.2 km

Dificulty: Moderately hard

Duration: 2-3 hours

Starting Your Year with Fitness and Fresh Air

For many retirees, New Year’s resolutions often focus on wellbeing — and gentle dog walking ticks every box. It’s social, accessible, and enjoyable in every season. Central Bath offers just the right mix of history, green space, and easy walking routes to help you stay active while exploring one of the UK’s most beautiful cities.

Comfortable Dog Walking Gear for Bath Routes

Harnesses for steady control

A supportive harness gives secure handling on hills and narrow paths. The EzyDog Express or Convert Harness provides stability on slopes and helps maintain balance.

Leads for smoother movement

Shock-absorbing leads such as the Zero Shock Lead reduce wrist strain during uneven sections. A hands-free option helps on short climbs and busy areas.

Travel and hydration essentials

A foldable bowl, secure car restraint, and reflective accessories prepare you for early mornings, winter afternoons, and longer trips outside the city.

Explore walking accessories on the EzyDog UK website for more options that align with these routes.

Tips for Safe Dog Walks in Bath All Year Round

• Keep a lead on near livestock and play areas.
  

• Carry water on every walk, even in winter.
  

• Check paths after heavy rain, especially in meadows and woodland.
  

• Wear shoes with good grip on canal and riverside routes.

• Plan earlier walks during darker months for visibility.
  

FAQs: Dog Walks in Bath

Where are the best dog walks in Bath for beginners?

Sydney Gardens, Royal Victoria Park, and Parade Gardens offer level paths ideal for steady walks.

Are dogs allowed off lead in Bath parks?

Rules vary by area. Royal Victoria Park and Sydney Gardens have sections where leads are recommended, especially near family zones.

What are good dog walks near Bath for senior owners or older dogs?

Sydney Gardens, the canal towpath, and the Parade Gardens riverside route suit lower-energy days.

Where can I find parking for popular Bath dog walks?

Royal Victoria Park, Bathwick Hill (for Skyline sections), and Bear Flat near Alexandra Park provide easy access.

Which Bath dog walks work well during winter?

City-centre paths such as Royal Victoria Park and the canal towpath offer stable ground and shorter loops for cold days.

Final Thoughts

Bath offers a mix of city paths, parks, and gentle countryside routes that suit steady walks in any season. Each route gives you and your dog a simple way to stay active while enjoying time outdoors.

If you’re planning your next outing, choose a distance that feels comfortable and keep the weather in mind. For extra support on hills or longer stretches, the right gear helps make every walk easier.