If your dog knows the usual walk so well they turn before you do, it might be time for a change. Around Wirksworth, you can swap your everyday route for woodland, an old railway trail or a wander beside the water.
There is no need to make it an all-day expedition. Pick somewhere that suits you both, allow time for the important sniffing stops and put a towel in the car. Here are three ideas for your next outing.
Black Rocks: take your time in the woods
Black Rocks has woodland routes on Cromford Moor and access to the High Peak Trail, as well as the gritstone outcrop itself. The climb from the car park to the rocks is short but steep, so you can happily leave that part out if it does not suit your dog.
If you have a dog who needs to investigate absolutely everything, a woodland wander is a lovely excuse to slow down. Keep them close near steep edges and take care when the ground is wet. The view can wait; enjoying the walk together is the point.
The postcode is DE4 4GT. You can find the practical details and route information on the Black Rocks visitor page.
Middleton Top: walk a little, or a little further
Middleton Top, at Middleton-by-Wirksworth, is a starting point for the High Peak Trail. The former railway route is shared by walkers, cyclists and horse riders.
An out-and-back walk lets you keep things flexible. Turn around when it feels right for your dog, the weather and the daylight you have left. Just leave room for bikes and horses, and keep long leads from stretching across the path.
Parking charges apply. The Middleton Top visitor page has current facility information, which is worth a look if you are counting on a drink or a toilet stop.
Carsington Water: fresh air beside the water
Between Wirksworth and Kniveton, Carsington Water gives you another change of scene. You do not have to commit to a long circuit. Choose a stretch that suits your dog and enjoy being out together.
This one is an on-lead outing. Severn Trent asks for dogs to stay under control and on a lead at all times to protect wildlife. Bring drinking water for your dog and check the Carsington visitor information for parking and notices before you head over.
Before you grab the lead
Water, bowl, poo bags and a towel are a good start. Add shoes with some grip, check the forecast and give yourself enough daylight to get back without rushing. Follow local signs, keep dogs away from livestock and use the official route maps to plan where you are going.
Then enjoy it. A few new smells and some time together are a perfectly good reason to get out.
And when your dog needs a little help getting tidy again, you will find us at 14a Market Place, Wirksworth. Book their next visit here.