Looking for the perfect dog-friendly day out near Manchester or Sheffield? Just a short train ride away, Marple is a charming town packed with scenic walks, welcoming cafes, and independent shops that love dogs as much as you do.
Whether you're visiting for the first time or rediscovering a local gem, here's how to spend a tail-wagging day in Marple with your four-legged best friend.
🚶 Start Your Adventure: Walk the Marple 16 Locks Towpath
Begin your day with a peaceful and picturesque walk along the Marple 16 Locks—an iconic canal route that gently guides you into the heart of the town.
Starting at the Marple Aqueduct ,follow the Peak Forest Canal towpath as it winds its way uphill through a flight of 16 impressive locks. It’s a flat, easy path that offers beautiful scenery and plenty of sniff-worthy stops along the way. The walk ends at Top Lock Marina, conveniently placing you right in Marple for the rest of your day.
This is one of the most scenic and historic dog walks near Manchester, and it's a favourite among local dog owners year-round.
☕ Mid-Morning Coffee at Marple’s Dog-Friendly Cafes
After your walk, it’s time for a well-earned break—and Marple has no shortage of dog-friendly cafes ready to welcome you both:
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Two Suns Coffee (Stockport Road) – Modern, stylish, and always dog-friendly, with excellent coffee and pastries.
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The Locks Coffee House (Derby Way) – Just off the main shopping street, this cosy café has a tasty food and loves a visiting pup.
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All Things Nice (Market Street) – A local favourite for breakfast and lunch, with space for both humans and hounds to relax.
Whether you're warming up with a latte or treating yourself to cake, your pup will be greeted with fuss—and maybe even a biscuit.
🛍️ Browse Marple’s Dog-Friendly Shops
Next, take a stroll through Marple town centre and pop into some of the many dog-friendly independent shops such as:
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Suburban Muse (6 Market Street) – This boutique offers stylish clothing, accessories, and homewares, and welcomes dogs with open arms.
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Harmony Decor (4 Market Street) - All your interior needs from curtains and soft furnishings to Little Greene paint and other big brands
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The Flower House (38 Market street) - Fresh flowers to take away or for delivery
- Hollins of Marple (15/17 Hollins Lane) - the most amazing hardware shop you could ever visit. If they don't have it in here then it doesn't exist!
- Peacocks – Unusual for a high street chain, Peacocks in Marple is dog-friendly too, making shopping even more relaxed.
These stops are perfect for browsing while your dog enjoys new smells and plenty of attention.
🎁 Treat Your Pup at Barkley and Fetch
Of course, no dog day out is complete without something special for your furry friend—and there’s no better place to find it than Barkley and Fetch on Market Street.
This local gem is home to the best handmade dog accessories in the area. From stylish collars and leads to cosy fleeces and harnesses, everything is crafted with comfort and durability in mind. Your dog is more than welcome in-store and can even try on their new accessories before heading off to show them off.
It’s a must-visit spot for any dog lover in Marple! They also make cat accessories too so your feline friend needn't miss out.
🌳 End Your Day at Brabyns Park
To wind down, head over to Brabyns Park—a large, peaceful green space just a short walk from the town centre and right next to Marple train station.
With wide open fields, riverside walks, and wooded trails, it’s the ideal place for one last run-around or a lazy sniff through the grass. There’s plenty of space for off-lead time (where appropriate), and it’s a favourite with local dog walkers.
When it’s time to head home, hop on a direct train back to Manchester or Sheffield—your pup will likely be snoozing the whole way!
🐕 Why Marple is One of the Best Dog-Friendly Day Trips Near Manchester
Marple has everything a dog lover could want: beautiful walks, welcoming cafés, independent shops, and wide green spaces. It’s walkable, scenic, and full of charm. Whether you’re shopping for treats, sipping coffee with your pup by your side, or exploring canal paths and parks, Marple is a perfect destination for dog-friendly adventures.
Planning a visit soon? Grab your lead, pack some treats, and enjoy a truly dog-welcoming day in one of Greater Manchester’s best-kept secrets.
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