The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 gives you legal access to mountain, moorland, heath, and downland across England. In Yorkshire, this covers vast tracts of the Dales and Moors. Your dog can be off lead on access land as long as they're under close control.

Both the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors have their own dedicated park authorities maintaining waymarked trails, visitor centres, and rights of way. The Pennine Way, Coast to Coast, and Cleveland Way all pass through Yorkshire.

Yorkshire's national parks have strong farmer communities. Many farms welcome responsible dog owners. The Yorkshire Dales' farmer stewardship schemes have created a culture where walkers and farmers coexist well.

Yorkshire villages have an outstanding culture of welcoming dogs. From the tea rooms of Grassington to the harbour pubs of Staithes, dogs are genuinely welcome — not just tolerated. Many pubs have water bowls outside and treats behind the bar.

Limestone pavements, ancient dry stone walls, waterfalls, and sweeping valleys define the Dales. Some of the finest walking in England, with well-maintained paths and excellent waymarking.

Malham, Wharfedale, Ribblesdale, Wensleydale

One of Britain's largest areas of heather moorland, threaded with miles of drovers' roads and footpaths. In late summer the moors turn purple with blooming heather.

Rievaulx, Sutton Bank, Blakey Ridge, Goathland

Dramatic cliffs, sandy bays, fishing villages, and the iconic Whitby Abbey. The Cleveland Way National Trail runs 109 miles along the coast, much of it dog-friendly.

Whitby, Robin Hood's Bay, Saltburn, Filey

Though administratively Derbyshire, the Peak District is often considered part of Yorkshire's walking heritage. The White Peak's limestone dales and Dark Peak's gritstone edges offer superb variety.

Hope Valley, Edale, Baslow, Hartington

The main hub of Upper Wharfedale, Grassington has a great range of dog-friendly pubs and walks radiating in every direction — Gordale Scar, Jan Bridge, and the limestone pavements of Kilnsey are all within easy reach.

⭐ Grassington to Hebden Bridge canal path

One of Yorkshire's highest market towns, sitting at the heart of Wensleydale. The Pennine Way starts here. Hawes has excellent pubs, a famous creamery (dogs welcome in the café), and walks ranging from gentle riverside ambles to challenging moorland treks.

⭐ Hardraw Force — England's highest underground waterfall

A sleepy village at the head of Swaledale, surrounded by dramatic Dales scenery. The village green is perfect for post-walk lounging. The arm at Reeth is particularly welcoming to dogs.

⭐ Swaledale and Arkengarthdale from the village

One of Yorkshire's most picturesque fishing villages, Staithes is tucked into a steep-sided ravine with a small harbour and cobbled streets. The walk to Port Mulgrave is spectacular, and Staithes has excellent dog-friendly pubs with harbour views.

⭐ Staithes to Port Mulgrave cliff path

Moorland Weather

Yorkshire moorland weather changes fast — clear skies can become disorienting fog within minutes, especially on the North York Moors. Always carry a map, phone, and appropriate clothing. In winter, ice on path crossings can be dangerous.

Grazing Animals

Sheep and cattle populate the Dales farmland. Keep dogs on a lead near all livestock. In spring, many fields have newborn lambs. Cattle with calves can be protective — give them space and keep your dog close.

Coastal Cliff Paths

Yorkshire's coastline has dramatic cliff paths that require care, especially in wet or windy weather. Cliff edges can be unstable — keep well back, and keep dogs on a lead near cliff edges. Check tide times for walks between bays.

Moorland Grouse & Birds

From 12 August to 10 December, grouse shooting dominates large areas of the North York Moors. During this period, some moors may have restricted access on certain days. Check locally. Ground-nesting birds are also a concern between March and July — keep dogs on paths during this period.