Is the Trail suitable for walkers with dogs ?
We have not made any provision for dog gates alongside stiles. Hadrian’s Wall now receives very large numbers of visitors, it also runs through countryside where visitors are likely to meet livestock every day that they are on the path. There have been a number of incidents of dogs running off the lead worrying both sheep as well as horses, also a couple of incidents where walkers with dogs have been harrassed themselves by cattle. The decision was made a number of years ago not to promote the Trail as a route suitable for walkers with dogs. At the time a survey was undertaken of farmers along Hadrian’s Wall and one of their principle concerns was that of people with dogs running off the lead and worrying their livestock. Of course walkers may legally bring their dogs with them, but the occasional irresponsible owner can cause serious problems for the management of the Trail. We hope you understand our position with this sensitive issue.
