10 Great Dog Walks in Yorkshire
At Manning Stainton, we understand that part of what makes your house a home is your family; in particular your pets. Our four-legged friends are the apple of our eye, especially during these tough times, whether you have a mellow Maltese or a lively lab, Yorkshire is home to some great dog walks in the business. From acres of open grassland to the wildlife-filled trials, Yorkshire really does have it all.
Tockwith and The River Nidd
If you’re looking for picturesque and easy to follow, Tockwith and the River Nidd is a 4.5 mile circular round trip, keeping your chances of getting lost to a minimum. The route is relatively flat, with a few gentle slopes, the riverside track will take around 2 hours to complete depending on the pace of your pooch and gives plenty of opportunity to go lead free, but be warned you may encounter some cattle on your way, so be sure to keep your lead on hand!
Hardcastle Crags and Hebden Water
If you’re looking for more of an adventure and have a spare hour and half to play with, Hardcastle Crags and Hebden Water is the perfect walk for you. The walk is around an hour from Wakefield by car but is well worth the drive. Starting from Hardcastle Crags you can expect muddy paths and rocky trails, there may even be a shallow stream or two to cross, depending on the weather. With plenty of pitstops for a picnic and wildlife to see, this walk is perfect for the whole family.
North York Moors
What better way to prove that Yorkshire is the best place in the world for dog walks that exploring the North York Moors National Park. The picture perfect landscapes span as far as the eye can see, choose from a long list of dog friendly walks, everything from under 3 miles for little legs and petite paws to 7 miles treks that will tire even the liveliest of labs. Be sure to check the National Parks website to find the best doggy friendly walks alongside their hints and tips on getting the most out of your North York Moors experience.
Crabtree Lane
Around halfway between Harewood House and Collingham, Crabtree Lane leads you through the countryside down to the river Wharfe. You can park your car in the small car park on the corner of Crabtree Lane and Harewood House before crossing the public footpath to begin your walk. Take a trip over the footbridge to cross the river which will eventually lead you to a fork in the path, take a right towards Trip Lane and Woodhall Hotel and Spa. Be prepared, this is not a circular trip so when you when you or your pup start to tire- it’s time to turn back. Depending on when you head back this walk is a maximum of 4 miles.
Thorner Moor
Just 15 minutes from the Oakwood area of Leeds, a walk through Thorner Moor seems worlds away from the hustle of the City. Starting in the picturesque ancient village of Thorner, this walk will take you along with fields, woodlands and through a nature reserve. Thorner itself is a rural space with plenty of space for your dog to roam free, in total the walk is around 7 miles and depending on puppy pace will take you between 3 to 4 hours to complete. Dog walking can be thirsty work, so make sure you pack refreshments from home!
Sugarwell Hill Park
If you want a view of the city centre skyline whilst you enjoy the open outdoors, look no further than Sugarwell Hill Park. A short 5 minutes from the vibrant student suburb of Headingley, Sugarwell Hill Park is woodland haven for wildlife, its paths will take you through a number of fields in a circular route. There is a possibility of encountering livestock so if you have an excitable pup, keep a lead on you.
Bramley Falls Wood
Backing onto the Leeds Liverpool Canal Bramley Falls Wood is 80 acres of beautiful woodland, with plenty of paths to choose from, your four legged friend will enjoy wandering through the woods. Whether you want to walk along the water or take a stroll through the bluebells woods, the well sign-posted paths will ensure you don’t take a wrong turn. A little away from the river, the playing fields of Bramley Fall Woods are ideal for a fetch frenzy.
Gledhow Woods
5 minutes from the trendy suburb of Moortown, Gledhow Woods is a welcome nature oasis, the perfect escape from busy suburban life. Around 57 acres, the beautiful woodlands are accompanied by a small stream that runs into the Gledhow Lake. A road does run through the woods so keep an eye for any passing traffic, keeping your dog on a lead is recommended. Whilst your dog searches for sticks, keep an eye out for the remains of a 19th century open-air bathhouse in the south east corner of the wood! If you or your dog still have some energy remaining, why not extend your walk to the vast acres of Roundhay Park, located just a mile away from the woods.
Saxton
Out towards Garforth, the historic walk of Saxton will take you to the old War of the Rose battlefield. With information panels displayed on route, whilst your dog embraces the outdoor space you can immerse yourself in local history. If you have time for a longer walk, this 5 miles route is definitely a must try!
Harrogate
If the weather isn’t on your side or you just fancy a short stroll, a walk on The Stray in Harrogate is the perfect place to start. Found in central Harrogate, The Stray is over 200 acres of grassland for your pooch to roam free. Surrounded by cherry blossoms in the spring with a sea of daffodils, there is plenty for your dog to sniff and for you to admire.Wherever you choose to wander with your much loved pets, you won’t be short of places to visit in Yorkshire.
