The sun’s out, albeit intermittently, and the moment’s come to cram the family in the car and venture out for a day trip.

But there’s one member of the family that requires slightly more consideration than the rest. The dog. And equally, you simply cannot leave them behind.

Having a dog is one of the most wonderful additions to the family, but factoring a dog into day trip plans can make things slightly more complicated. Finding the right location for a day trip with your dog is key.

Ashbourne is the perfect location. With numerous parks and trails for dog walks, oodles of dog-friendly eateries and many small businesses selling pet supplies and souvenirs, Ashbourne is a great place to come with a dog.

Plus, Ashbourne is hosting its inaugural summer dog show this June.  What better place to spend a summer day with your pooch?

And if you need further inspiration, here are our top 10 reaons why Ashbourne is great to visit with a dog.

1.     Dog walks, of course!

Gateway to the Peak District, Ashbourne is laden with beautiful countryside ideal for a dog walk. Ashbourne Recreation Ground looks gorgeous at this time of year, with many flowers and trees in bloom. There is also a play area and splash park here for younger members of the family to play.

The Tissington trail, a 13-mile disused railway line, starts in Ashbourne and is lovely to stroll along. You can see stunning views of surrounding countryside (personal favourite point is around 4km away from Ashbourne near Thorpe) as well as plenty of birds, rabbits, wildflowers and fields of sheep. The great thing about the Tissington trail is you can walk (or cycle) for as far as you want, and once you get past the tunnel and 7 arches (a short, steep dip in the trail around 800m from the start), the views, wildlife and tranquillity start straight away.

2.     Enjoy one of Ashbourne’s many dog-friendly eateries

Many of Ashbourne’s eateries advertise themselves as dog-friendly, and given the number of dogs I often see near these places, I have no doubt that is the case. Boutique café Bear mention they are dog friendly on their website, as do pubs including The Stepping Stones and The George and Dragon. Brunch bar Poms even have a menu just for dogs! Whether you’re after a quick coffee, a refreshing lunch or delicious dinner, there’s sure to be somewhere in Ashbourne to suit your (and your dog’s) fancy.

3.     Buy some souvenirs inspired by your pet…

There are stacks of lovely gift and souvenir shops in Ashbourne. Small businesses such as Handmade Design, Becalmed and Sticky Fingers have wonderful collections of gifts, many of which have been inspired by our four-legged friends. Handmade Design, for example, currently have a lovely range of pet-inspired posters and greetings cards (including somepop-out sausage dog ones!) and their own dogs, Amber and Orla, that may be helping out in store.

4.     …and some souvenirs for your pet.

Obviously, if you’re treating yourself or other human friends, it is only fair to treat your pet too. Pets Pad is a lovely little independent pet shop nestled in one of Ashbourne’s alleyways, and a great place to go for pet supplies and treats.

5.     Ashbourne Dog Show

Ashbourne’s inaugural summer dog show is set to take place on Sunday 14th June 2026. More details to follow, but prepare to see many dogs descend upon the town.

6.     Parkrun / walk

Parkrun / walk is a free weekly timed 5km run / walk taking place at Ashbourne Recreation Ground on a Saturday at 9am. Dogs are more than welcome if kept on a short lead and, although parkrun is a run not a race, I’m sure some dogs definitely can’t resist their inner competitiveness.

7.     Open gardens

There are plenty of open garden events in and around the Ashbourne area in June including Brassington, Middleton and Wirksworth. A great way to get some inspiration for your own garden, marvel at horticultural skill and explore (with your dog of course) some local areas you might not have otherwise.

8. The Ark

The Ark is Ashbourne's rescue and rehoming centre for unwanted and stray cats and dogs. Since the charity was formed in 1988, they have helped over 9000 animals! 

The Ark welcome people to sponsor pets, volunteer and fundraise. They also hold open days, next one in July, where you can meet some of the animals.

9. Dog waste bags accepted in every bin

Ok, not the most glamourous reason to visit Ashbourne with your dog, but we all know these logistics are important. Every bin in Ashbourne accepts dog waste bags which helps make your visit more hassle-free.

10. Is it too early to think about Christmas?

Well, yes, it is. But we couldn't write a blog post about why Ashbourne is great for dog-lovers without including these bits.

If you're approaching Ashbourne from Yeldersley, you may notice a house with two large Great Dane statues in the front garden. Around Christmas time, these dog like to wear Santa hats.

Ashbourne Animal Welfare organise a special service at St Oswald's church to give thanks for the companionship of pets. The service is loved by people and pets alike (both of whom attend in great numbers). The service was great last year and we look forward to the event in 2026.

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But now back to summer, because we really cannot wish this warmer weather away.

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Ashbourne is a great place to visit with a dog or without. Hopefully this article has given you some inspiration for your next trip to the town!