The best places for dog walks in Yorkshire

The best places for dog walks in Yorkshire

Discover our top picks

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Discover dog friendly family walks in Yorkshire with forest trails, just half an hour away from our hot tub cabins at Keldy or Cropton

Dog walks in North Yorkshire: Newtondale

Offering one of the best dog walks in North Yorkshire, this 6-mile circular route includes quiet lanes and woodland walks with several steep slopes. For off lead dog walks in Yorkshire, you'll be pleased to hear that parts of the area cross paths with Forestry England open access land where your pup can roam as long as they’re in view and under control. 

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway runs parallel with Newtondale so you might hear the distant whistling of an oncoming train too.

Newtondale forest trail, North Yorkshire

Sloping woodland views at Newtondale

Yorkshire dog walks: Castle Howard Arboretum

If you’re looking for dog walks in Yorkshire that the whole family can enjoy, The Yorkshire Arboretum is a definite must. Less than 40 minutes away from our Yorkshire locations, Castle Howard is situated in the Howardian Hills - a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

There are two trails you can follow shown in the map provided. The short walk takes around an hour and the long walk lasts up to 2 hours. But you can spend the whole day exploring if you’d like.  

In order to preserve the wildlife, your dog needs to be on a lead in designated areas so they don’t disturb any birds and animals. However there’s a good few off lead areas for your pup to explore.  

Complete your day trip with a pit-stop at the cafe. Offering home cooked food made with local ingredients it’s a great place to relax. Dogs aren’t allowed in but there’s a pet-friendly outdoor sitting area complete with beautiful scenery.  

Castle Howard gardens, North Yorkshire

Stroll through the stunning gardens at Castle Howard

Dog walks Yorkshire: Runswick Bay

Runswick Bay (known as one of the prettiest areas on the Yorkshire coast) is well worth the 45 minute drive from your cabin at Keldy or Cropton. A former fishing village, this quaint area offers an ideal setting for your dog walk in Yorkshire. 

With its beautiful crescent of sandy beach, Runswick Bay is a fantastic day out for families. Perfect for traditional bucket-and-spade fun, rock pooling, fossil hunting and of course coastal walks, where you can admire the outstanding views. The best part is that Runswick Bay is pet-friendly so there’s lots of opportunities for beach games with your pup. 

At the end of a perfect afternoon on the beach, weave along the tiny paths and enjoy the views as you stroll past the cute thatched cottage beside the sea – most likely the village's most photographed house. Great for grabbing a couple of Instagram snaps. 

Runswick bay, North Yorkshire coast

Seaside fun at Runswick Bay

Dog walks Yorkshire: Whitby Abbey

The instantly recognisable Whitby Abbey offers a circular walk overlooking the popular seaside town of Whitby. It's one of the most romantic and atmospheric ruins in Britain and a fun place to walk your dog if you’re into sightseeing. 

The route takes you away from the town along the Whitby Lighthouse and towards Saltwick Bay where you can enjoy the wonderful sea views. A little further on you approach the historic views of Whitby Abbey and the infamous 199 steps leading to St. Mary’s Church. 

Dogs are welcome on leads at Whitby Abbey and on the east side of the River Esk lies a beach which is also pet-friendly – ideal for those warmer months when your dog could do with a dip to cool off. 

Whitby Abbey, North Yorkshire

Captivating Whitby Abbey

Dog walks Yorkshire: Robin Hood’s Bay

A little further afield, Robin Hood’s Bay is a great place to visit with your four-legged-friend. This circular walk joins the Cleveland Way coastal path towards Maw Wyke. Or switch things up on the way back by joining the Cinder Track for the return leg of the journey. 

This loop is a 9.5 kilometre trail and the paths can get a little muddy after periods of wet weather. The Cleveland Way includes climbs and slopes through gullies so be careful when travelling through this area. Dogs should be kept close as the cliff edges are unfenced with steep drops. If you decide to return via the Cinder Track be mindful of horse riders and cyclists. 

Ramble through Robin Hood's Bay

Dog walks Yorkshire: Boggle Hole

Boggle Hole is a hidden gem situated about a mile south of Robin Hood’s Bay. A sheltered cove in front of an old converted watermill, it was famous for smuggling ‘treasure’ and thought to be the perfect hiding place for pirates. The clifftop path offers beautiful views of Robin Hood’s Bay and the route also follows the Cinder Track, with on and off lead areas your pup will love exploring.

Boggle Hole can be reached by taking the narrow road through Fyling Park or Fylingthorpe, but be mindful, the road is not suitable for large vehicles. Our tip? Stroll along the rocky cliff tops and when the tide is low walk along golden sandy beaches.

 

Dog walks Yorkshire: North Yorkshire Steam Railway

A short 15 minute drive from your cosy cabin, discover the North Yorkshire Steam Railway. Dogs are welcome aboard standard coaches (except dining trains) providing they are well behaved, settled under tables or seats and not obstructing the walkway. 

A doggy ticket can be purchased for just £3 and the train stops at many tourist hotspots including Whitby Abbey and Robin Hood’s Bay. All aboard! 

North Yorkshire steam train

Jump aboard for impressive heather moorland views

Discover dog walking holidays in North Yorkshire

Now you’ve discovered our top places to walk dogs in Yorkshire, what are you waiting for? Book your pet-friendly hot tub holiday today and stay at Keldy or Cropton in North Yorkshire for a fun family holiday even the dog can enjoy.