Famous for it’s fish and chips and vast coastline, Whitby is a popular seaside resort in East Yorkshire. There are a variety of dog friendly days out in Whitby, so you and your pup are entertained for hours.
The Best Places To Take Dogs in Whitby
Whitby has a lot going for it, with it’s close access to the National Park and situated on the coastline, you get to experience the best of both worlds. There are a number of local pubs, bars, clubs and shops for you to enjoy with your canine companion.
To make it easier for you to decide on what doggie activities you want to do, we have listed 7 top dog friendly attractions in Whitby:
Activities & Things to Do
Find below 7 of the best days out in Whitby for dogs
1. North York Moors Railway
Join the NYMR at Whitby, and enjoy a steam or vintage diesel train trip across the fabulous North York Moors National Park. Book beforehand, and enjoy a slap-up meal courtesy of the world-famous Pullman dining carriage. Keep your eyes peeled for Goathland station, which you might recognise as Hogsmead from Harry Potter or Aidensfield from the Heartbeat television series. Throughout the year, there are special events, including the 60s Fest and Railway in Wartime, which makes the most of this superb and unique mix of natural beauty and old fashioned standards.
2. Enjoy the beaches
As well as its natural harbour, Whitby is home to several beaches. Sandsend is a particular favourite, and your furry friend will love running free along East Side beach, with its pristine white sand and dog-friendly regulations. At Runswick Bay beach, you can sit and relax in your deckchairs or take part in the organized beach games if you’re feeling competitive. Of course, there are always donkey rides to complete the Great British seaside holiday experience.
3. Pay a visit to Staithes
Just to the north of Whitby itself is the idyllic fishing village of Staithes. This is on a steep hill that leads down to the sea, where the beach appears at low tide. The world-famous Cod and Lobster pub is at the bottom of the hill and is the first place the fisherman go after mooring. The pub is dog friendly, and the great local food doesn’t come at an eye-watering price. While you’re eating, keep a lookout for the seals which make regular appearances, hoping the fishermen will be kind to them.
4. Climb up to St Mary’s Church Yard
Whitby has connections with Dracula, the creation of Bram Stoker, who lived in the town. On the east side of the harbour, 199 steps rise to St Mary’s Church, right on the clifftop. These steps are a legendary part of the Dracula story, and you’re supposed to count them one by one as you ascend. Of course, your energetic four-legged friend will beat you to the top; but the spectacular view is worth the climb.
5. Visit Robin Hood’s Bay
This spectacular fishing village is just a short drive south of Whitby and is a world-famous tourist destination in its own right. The village was famous as a haven for smugglers, as its treacherous waters proved too much for many passing ships. Locally known as Bay Town, it’s best seen by parking at the top of the hill and following the winding path down to the bay itself.
6. Take in Pannett Park
Situated in central Whitby, Pannett Park is home to some fantastic gardens, walks and woodland, perfect for a quiet stroll and ideal for inquisitive pets to explore. The Park has been heavily invested in by the Heritage Lottery Fund and is one of the many jewels in Whitby’s crown. It’s also home to the Pannett Art Gallery, free to enter and has a permanent exhibition by the Staithes Group of early 20th Century Impressionist painters – and the Whitby Museum.
7. Visit Ruswarp
The village of Ruswarp is up the River Esk from Whitby, and you can get there by hiring a pleasure boat. These come in the traditional rowing boat design and canoes for the athletic type. While you’re in Ruswarp, take a ride on its Miniature Steam Railway and jump off at any point to enjoy one of the many dog walks in Whitby, The train starts and ends at Chainbridge Station with its own café and does circuits of the beautiful parkland specially set aside for it. For other activities, view more pet friendly adventures in Yorkshire on this page where we compare a range of attractions.
Looking at Visiting the Area
If our list of dog-friendly places in Whitby has got you yearning for a holiday here, you’ll be please to know we have also searched for the best pet-friendly seaside accommodation.
Holiday Cottages
We have created a list of some excellent options when it comes to Whitby dog friendly cottages and Whitby hot tub cottages for pets, perfect for you and your four-legged friend.
Log Cabins
With everything you need for a coastal getaway with your pooch our favourite dog friendly lodges in Whitby can be found here.