SALISBURY has been named one of the UK’s top destinations for dog walking after landing fourth place in a competition, beating dozens of other cities across the country.

Only Chichester, Truro and Wells ranked higher in the nationwide list, which celebrates Britain’s best places for walkies based on green spaces, dog-friendly venues and access to beautiful countryside.

For Salisbury’s dog owners, it will come as little surprise.

With riverside walks, open parkland, nearby countryside and plenty of pubs and cafés welcoming muddy paws, the city scored highly for offering dogs and owners the perfect mix of town and country life.

The rankings were created by Agria Pet Insurance using online search data along with proximity to green spaces, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and National Trust sites.

The announcement comes as searches for “best dog walks” have surged by 146% in the last month – showing just how many owners are planning adventures with their four-legged companions this summer.

Agria says Salisbury stood out for its “perfect combination of green spaces, dog-friendly cafes and pubs, and easy access to nearby Areas of Natural Beauty”.

The study also revealed a strong southern dominance, with six southern cities making the top rankings.

To coincide with the launch of the index, Agria has also relaunched its annual charity Dog Walk event throughout May.

Dog owners across the UK are being encouraged to log their walks online, with Agria donating £5 for every dog signed up to support animal rescue charities.

Managing director at Agria Pet Insurance Vicki Wentworth said: “What really shines through in the index – particularly in cities like Salisbury – is how much these places think about dogs themselves, from accessible green space through to safe, stimulating places to explore.”

Last year’s event raised more than £20,000 for animal welfare causes.

Dog owners can sign up online, with prizes including a £500 dog-friendly getaway up for grabs.