A dog-friendly housebuilder’s guide to the best South Wales ‘walkies’

In celebration of Walk Your Dog Month (January), Barratt Developments South Wales has worked with its dog-owning residents to share the top dog-friendly jaunts in South Wales — from Chepstow to Loughor.

What’s more, free dog treats and water stations are now available at all Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes sales offices across South Wales — the perfect pitstop for pooches and their owners when out and about during January and beyond.

Richard Lawson, Sales Director for Barratt Developments South Wales said: “We know that around 33% of households in the UK have a dog* and the important role they play in family life, so it’s only right that we cater for our four-legged friends across developments.

“We’re fortunate to have an abundance of scenic walking routes and dog-friendly experiences nearby all our developments here in South Wales — and who better to share them than our residents themselves.”

Minnie the Pomeranian, and Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Tinkerbell and Sooty live with their owners, Clare and Craig at Severn Meadows in Lydney.

The trio love nothing more than a trip to the nearby grounds of Lydney Park and Bathurst Park — as well as venturing nose-down through the trees at Mallards Pike and Beechenhurt forests. For a change of scenery, they’ll trundle on down to Lydney Harbour — the perfect location for some birdwatching.

CAPTION: Minnie, Tinkerbell and Sootie exploring Lydney.

Meanwhile, Daisy — the two-year-old, white German Shepherd — lives with her owner, Dave at Hanbury Locks in Cwmbran. Still an energetic pup, Daisy enjoys making the most of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal that runs alongside the housing development.

Daisy loves the water and can often be found exploring the nearby Blaen Bran Reservoir or Cwmbran Boating Lake at Llanyravon. For a shorter walk, Daisy and Dave enjoy playing fetch at Croesyceiliog Park.

CAPTION: Daisy stopping for a break after her walk around Cwmbran.

Smudge, the 14-year-old Jack Russell cross lives with her owner, Tracy — also at Hanbury Locks.

Smudge’s favourite local walking routes include Pontypool Park and the climb up to Folly Tower to take in the breath-taking views. Chapel Lane river walk is also a firm favourite for shorter walking days — with an optional dip in the river during summer months.

CAPTION: Smudge enjoying an afternoon at the park.

Next up is 7-month-old Koby the Belusky — a Siberian Husky and Belgian Malinois cross — who recently moved into a new townhouse on Harbourside at The Quays in Barry with his owners, Ellie and Connor.

During winter months, Koby loves to tire himself out on Barry Island Beach — with plenty of dog-friendly cafes for the humans to enjoy a warm drink, including Marcos from Gavin and Stacey fame.

For a more ‘rocky’ experience, they’ll head to The Knap — a slightly quieter, pebble beach also within walking distance to Harbourside. The Old Harbour Beach is another of Koby’s favourite walks as it’s dog-friendly all year round!

CAPTION: Koby enjoying the sunset on Barry beach.

Finally, Callie the six-month-old Cocker Spaniel lives with her parents, Michael and Darren at Chapel Fields in Loughor, Swansea.

Lovers of the sea air, you can often find them walking along Millenium Coast Path in Llanelli — stopping off for a treat at dog-friendly St Ellis Bay Café en-route. Slightly closer to home, but an equally beautiful stroll, is Machynys Bay Beach and Path, nearby the well-known golf club.

Perhaps their favourite location — just a short drive away — is Pembrey Country Park which also offers a variety of family activities. And last, but by no means least, is Loughor Estuary — a breezy stretch of sand located conveniently just outside their front door!

CAPTION: Callie having a rest after a run along the beach.

To find out more about Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes South Wales’ developments and nearby amenities, please visit: https://www.barratthomes.co.uk/new-homes/wales/south-wales/ and https://www.dwh.co.uk/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIiICk0ZS-9QIVh7TtCh3BKwsZEAAYASAAEgIh5_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds.

*PFMA 2021 Pet Population Report.