The Yorkshire Dales is one of Britain’s most rewarding regions to explore on foot, especially with a dog. For dog owners, the appeal lies in the variety: long-distance trails, shorter riverside walks, dog-friendly pubs and plenty of places where muddy boots and wet paws are entirely normal. Whether you want an easy riverside walk near Grassington or a longer day across open moorland, the Dales offers routes for nearly every pace and energy level.

For a broader overview of the region see our guide to 48 Hours in the Yorkshire Dales. If you enjoy dog-friendly walking, also see our guide to Dog-Friendly Walks in the Cotswolds.

Best Dog-Friendly Walks in the Yorkshire Dales

With hundreds of miles of public footpaths, bridleways and open access land, the Yorkshire Dales caters to walkers of all abilities and their pets.

1. Malham Cove

One of the area’s most iconic landmarks, Malham Cove presents a spectacular natural amphitheatre perfect for exploration. Dogs should stay on leads here, particularly during lambing season and ground-nesting bird periods in spring and early summer. The circular route from Malham village covers rugged limestone scenery including Janet’s Foss waterfall and Gordale Scar.

  • Distance: ~4 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Facilities: Parking in Malham village; pubs allow dogs inside; water bowls available outside several cafés

2. Aysgarth Falls

This trio of picturesque waterfalls on the River Ure is a favourite for families and their dogs alike. Wide tracks make it suitable even in damp weather. Dogs must be leashed near livestock fields but can roam more freely by the riverside stretches.

  • Distance: 2–3 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Tips: Most cafés around Aysgarth are used to walkers arriving with dogs and muddy boots; water bowls outside entrances are common

3. Ribblehead Viaduct Loop

Walk beneath this awe-inspiring railway viaduct against Ingleborough’s backdrop via moorland paths rich in wildflowers during spring. Some sections cross sheep pasture — please keep dogs under close control.

  • Distance: ~5 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate

4. Burnsall & Grassington Riverside Path

Start in Burnsall village and follow the River Wharfe north toward Grassington through meadows dotted with sheep (lead recommended). Pubs at either end cater well to dog owners.

Where to Stay with Your Dog in the Dales

  • The Devonshire Arms (Bolton Abbey): Welcomes up to two dogs per room; offers beds, bowls and treats upon check-in
  • The Traddock (Austwick): Boutique hotel renowned for its eco ethos and warm attitude towards pets — three dog-friendly rooms available
  • Stow House (Aysgarth): Bright country house B&B with vast gardens ideal for morning exercise
  • Swaledale Yurts: Unique self-catering accommodation set beside rivers with secure gardens
  • Hostels & Campsites: Many independent hostels and camping sites across Wensleydale and Swaledale accept well-behaved animals — always confirm policy prior to booking

Dog-Friendly Attractions Worth Visiting

  1. Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden — leashed dogs can roam extensive parkland except in abbey ruins; outdoor refreshment kiosks provide bowls and water stations
  2. Bolton Abbey Estate — miles of marked trails over woodland, moorland and riverbanks; free dog waste bags at main entrances; designated off-lead zones by Stepping Stones area
  3. Richmond Castle — welcomes dogs into castle grounds and gardens but not indoor exhibitions
  4. Hawes National Park Centre — visitor centre always open for well-behaved dogs
  5. Kirkby Lonsdale Market Town — shops and cafés display Dog Friendly stickers; several bakeries sell locally made canine treats

Recommended Dog-Friendly Pubs & Cafés

  • The Wheatsheaf Inn (Carperby) — roaring fires; serves gravy bones at the bar
  • The Fountaine Inn (Linton) — picturesque location next to duck pond
  • No6 Tea Room (Masham) — homemade cakes for humans plus special sausage snacks for visiting pets

Opening hours in smaller villages can change seasonally, especially outside school holidays, so it’s worth checking ahead.

Essential Tips When Walking Dogs in the Yorkshire Dales

  • Always keep your dog within sight or on lead around livestock and ground-nesting birds
  • Carry enough water and dog waste bags — bins may be scarce outside villages
  • Avoid letting pets approach riverbanks after heavy rain due to risk of flooding and muddy banks
  • Check individual attraction policies online before your trip as entry rules can change

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are there any areas where I cannot take my dog? While most of the Yorkshire Dales is accessible to dogs, some nature reserves and protected habitats restrict access during bird breeding seasons or require dogs to stay on leads near livestock and wildlife.

Q: Is wild swimming allowed and safe for my dog? Many riverside areas along the Wharfe and Ure are popular for paddling but water levels and currents can change quickly after heavy rain — always assess conditions locally first.

Q: Where can I find emergency veterinary help? Towns such as Skipton, Settle and Leyburn all have veterinary practices, though opening hours in smaller areas may be limited outside weekends — it’s worth saving the nearest emergency vet number just in case.

Q: Do I need any special equipment? Alongside a lead, harness and ID tag, many owners also bring towels, waterproof layers and extra water during colder or muddy months.

Why Choose the Yorkshire Dales With Your Dog?

The Yorkshire Dales works particularly well for dog-friendly travel because the landscape encourages slower days outdoors. One day might involve a long limestone walk near Malham; the next, a shorter afternoon beside the Wharfe followed by a pub lunch in Grassington. That flexibility is part of what makes the Dales so easy to return to.

If you plan ahead for weather, livestock and busy weekends, travelling through the Yorkshire Dales with a dog is remarkably straightforward — and considerably more relaxed than many better-known UK countryside destinations.