11 Most (Welcoming) Yorkshire Dog-Friendly Towns & Villages

Two happy dogs exploring a charming, dog-friendly Yorkshire town with picturesque buildings and cobblestone streets

Are you embarking on a dog-friendly adventure in Yorkshire? Look no further! This beautiful region is brimming with charming towns and villages catering to canine companions, ensuring you and your furry friend have an unforgettable experience.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up 19 of the most welcoming Yorkshire dog-friendly towns and villages, featuring everything from picturesque coastal gems to enchanting market towns steeped in history. Discover the best attractions, historical sites, activities, pubs, and accommodation to make the most of your visit to this captivating part of England.

Table of Contents

So, let’s dive in and explore the ultimate dog-friendly destinations in Yorkshire!

1. Helmsley, North York Moors

Helmsley, a picturesque market town in the North York Moors, is a dog lover’s paradise. The town is brimming with dog-friendly attractions, making it an ideal destination for you and your furry friend to enjoy a gentle stroll. Delve into history and leisure time by exploring various sites and enjoying local hospitality.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Rievaulx Abbey
  • Helmsley Walled Garden
  • Helmsley Castle

Historical Sites:

  • Duncombe Park (Outer Grounds)
  • Byland Abbey

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • Wolds Way Lavender
  • The Feathers Hotel

2. Pateley Bridge

Nestled in Nidderdale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the town of Pateley Bridge offers stunning landscapes and welcoming locals. With many attractions, historical sites, and activities, you and your four-legged friend will always have things to do in this charming destination.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Shipley Glen Cable Tramway
  • Stump Cross Caverns
  • Coldstones Cut

Historical Sites:

  • Brimham Rocks
  • Newby Hall & Gardens

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • Toft Gate Lime Kiln
  • The Crown Inn

3. Richmond

Richmond, a historic market town, is an excellent base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales with your canine companion. From its stunning castle to riverside walks, Richmond has something for everyone.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Richmond Dog Show
  • The Station
  • The Green Howards Museum

Historical Sites:

  • Richmond Castle
  • Easby Abbey

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • River Swale walks
  • The Black Lion Hotel

4. Middleham

Famed for its racehorse training, Middleham is a quaint town in Wensleydale that welcomes dogs. Discover the ruins of a magnificent castle and enjoy idyllic Yorkshire countryside walks with your furry friend.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Middleham Castle
  • Fountains Abbey
  • Jervaulx Abbey

Historical Sites:

  • Druids Temple
  • Braithwaite Hall

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • The Richard III Hotel
  • The White Swan

5. Whitby

Whitby, a coastal town steeped in history and maritime heritage, is a fantastic dog-friendly destination. From its iconic abbey to the charming harbour, there’s plenty for you and your dog to explore together.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Whitby Abbey
  • Ghost Walks
  • Boat Trip

Historical Sites:

  • 199 Steps
  • Whitby Lighthouse

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • Whitby Beach
  • The Duke of York

Where to Stay: View these handpicked cabins in Whitby for dogs.

6. Harrogate

Harrogate, a historic spa town, is known for its elegant architecture, beautiful gardens, and a dog-friendly atmosphere. Treat yourself and your pooch to a luxurious break in this sophisticated town.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Valley Gardens
  • How Stean Gorge
  • Mercer Art Gallery

Historical Sites:

  • Fountains Abbey
  • Beningbrough Hall

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • Starling Independent Bar and Café
  • The Fat Badger

7. Leyburn

Leyburn, a bustling market town in Wensleydale, offers a warm welcome to dogs and their owners. With beautiful landscapes, walking routes and rich history, Leyburn is a delightful destination to explore with your furry companion.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Druids Temple
  • Wensleydale Railway
  • Leyburn Shawl

Historical Sites:

  • Middleham Castle
  • Constable Burton Hall Gardens

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • The Golden Lion
  • The Old Horn Inn

8. Scarborough

Scarborough, a vibrant seaside town, is perfect for a dog-friendly holiday on the Yorkshire coast. With beautiful beaches, parks, and an array of attractions, you can dive into a little Yorkshire shopping with your dog welcome at many places.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Scarborough Castle
  • Peasholm Park
  • North Bay Heritage Railway

Historical Sites:

  • Rotunda Museum
  • St. Mary’s Church

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • Scarborough Arms
  • The Old Scalby Mills

9. Thirsk

Thirsk, a traditional market town, is an excellent base for exploring the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales with it’s rolling hills. With its welcoming atmosphere and dog-friendly establishments, Thirsk is an ideal destination for you and your furry friend.

Attractions Nearby:

  • York Museum Gardens
  • Murton Park
  • Ormesby Hall

Historical Sites:

  • Thirsk Hall
  • St. Mary’s Church

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • The Frankland Arms
  • The Three Tuns

Where to Stay: There’s plenty of options nearby with this selection of Yorkshire cabin holidays with dogs allowed.

10. Robin Hood's Bay

Robin Hood’s Bay is a picturesque coastal village on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. Its narrow streets, quaint cottages, and dog-friendly beach make it an ideal location for a relaxing getaway with your canine companion.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Old Coastguard Station
  • Falling Foss Tea Garden
  • Whitby – Robin Hood’s Bay Walk

Historical Sites:

  • St. Stephen’s Church
  • Wainwright’s Coast to Coast Walk

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • Robin Hood’s Bay Beach
  • Ye Dolphin

11. Staithes

Staithes, a charming fishing village, offers you and your dog a tranquil retreat. Staithes is a must-visit location on the Yorkshire coast with its stunning coastal scenery and dog-friendly establishments.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Staithes Beach
  • Staithes Heritage Centre
  • Port Mulgrave

Historical Sites:

  • RSPB Bempton Cliffs
  • Glen Gardens

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • The Royal George
  • Cod & Lobster

12. Skipton

Skipton, known as the “Gateway to the Dales,” is a historic market town that offers a warm welcome to dog owners. With its medieval castle, picturesque canal, and vibrant high street, Skipton is an excellent destination for you and your pooch.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Roberts Park
  • Craven Museum
  • Skipton Woods

Historical Sites:

  • Skipton Castle
  • Broughton Hall Estate

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway
  • The Narrow Boat

Where to Stay: Discover a fantastic selection of dog friendly holiday rentals in Skipton.

13. Bridlington

Bridlington, a bustling seaside resort, offers beautiful sandy beaches, a vibrant harbour, and a variety of attractions that cater to dog owners. Enjoy a relaxing break with your four-legged friend in this lovely coastal town.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Sewerby Hall and Gardens
  • Bridlington Old Town
  • Bondville Model Village

Historical Sites:

  • Bayle Museum
  • Flamborough Head Lighthouse

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • Bridlington North Beach
  • The Ship Inn

Where to Stay: Explore dog friendly holidays in Bridlington that love our furry friends.

14. Malton

Malton, known as “Yorkshire’s Food Capital,” is a delightful market town that offers a warm welcome to dogs and their owners. With its food festivals, stunning countryside, and dog-friendly establishments, Malton is a must-visit destination for food-loving dog owners.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Eden Camp Modern History Theme Museum
  • Malton Museum
  • Flamingo Land Resort

Historical Sites:

  • Scampston Hall
  • Castle Howard

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • Malton Food Lovers Festival
  • The New Malton

15. Pickering

Pickering, an ancient market town on the edge of the North York Moors, offers a wealth of dog-friendly attractions, walks, and places to stay. Explore its historic castle, scenic railway, and beautiful countryside with your canine companion.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Pickering Castle
  • North Yorkshire Moors Railway
  • Dalby Forest

Historical Sites:

  • St Peter and St Paul Church
  • Rosedale Abbey

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • Hole of Horcum
  • The White Swan Inn

16. Ilkley

Ilkley, a spa town and civil parish, is the perfect destination for a dog-friendly holiday. With its beautiful countryside, famous moor, and welcoming atmosphere, Ilkley is an ideal base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales with your furry friend.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Ilkley Moor
  • Lister Park
  • Riverside Gardens

Historical Sites:

  • Manor House Museum
  • All Saints Church

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • The Ilkley Riverside Pub
  • The Flying Duck

17. Filey

Filey is a charming seaside town on the Yorkshire coast that welcomes dogs and their owners. With its beautiful sandy beach, stunning coastal walks, and dog-friendly establishments, Filey is ideal for a relaxing break with your canine companion.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Filey Bird Garden & Animal Park
  • Filey Brigg
  • Crescent Gardens

Historical Sites:

  • Filey Museum
  • St. Oswald’s Church

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • Filey Beach
  • The Buccaneer

Where to Stay: Check out self catering holiday options in Filey for dogs here.

18. Ripon

Ripon, a cathedral city and the smallest city in Yorkshire offers a warm welcome to dog owners. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and beautiful surrounding countryside, Ripon is an excellent destination for a dog-friendly getaway.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Golden Acre Park
  • Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden
  • Bingle Five Rise Locks

Historical Sites:

  • Kiplin Hall and Gardens
  • Fountains Abbey

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • The Ripon Hornblower
  • The Royal Oak

19. Knaresborough

Knaresborough, a historic market, offers an array of dog-friendly attractions, with dog walks, and eateries. With its scenic riverside location, ancient castle, and mysterious Mother Shipton’s Cave, Knaresborough is an unforgettable destination for a holiday with your best friend.

Attractions Nearby:

  • Knaresborough Castle
  • Mother Shipton’s Cave
  • Nidd Gorge

Historical Sites:

  • St. John the Baptist Church
  • House in the Rock

Activities, Beaches, Pubs:

  • Waterside Walk
  • The World’s End

Last Word

Yorkshire is home to a wealth of dog-friendly towns and villages, each offering its unique charm, attractions, and activities.

From the stunning coastal locations of Whitby and Scarborough to the beautiful market towns of Helmsley and Richmond, there’s something for everyone and their four-legged friends. So why not start planning your next dog-friendly adventure in Yorkshire today?

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John Devlin

An online publisher for over nine years, working specifically in the travel and dog industries. When I am not writing about pet travels and places to visit, I enjoy walking with my 2 Golden Retrievers, fishing and family time.

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