There is something rather altogether lovely about autumn in Yorkshire. The mornings are crisp, the trees put on their finest golden display and the countryside seems to slow down just enough for you to properly appreciate it.
And, of course, there is the mud.
If you have a dog, you will know that autumn walks are not complete without at least one suspiciously deep puddle, a very muddy paw and the inevitable shake just as you reach the car. But that is all part of the fun, right?
From the sweeping landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales to the heather-covered North York Moors, autumn is a brilliant time to pull on your boots, grab the dog lead and head out exploring. So, here are a few of our favourite ideas for autumn dog walks in Yorkshire….
Yorkshire Dales: Windswept Doggy Fun
The Dales are practically made for muddy autumn adventures if you think of the rolling hills, the winding rivers, the stone walls, the ancient woodlands and those enormous skies that make you feel very small indeed.
Around Aysgarth, you can combine a countryside stroll with a visit to the famous waterfalls, while the villages and valleys around Reeth, Leyburn and Richmond offer plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs.
If you fancy making a proper weekend of it, take a look at our dog-friendly cottages in Yorkshire. Many are perfectly placed for getting out into the countryside, with some offering walks close to the doorstep.
And when everyone is suitably windswept? Find a cosy pub, order something hearty and let the dog have a well-earned snooze beneath the table.
North York Moors: Big skies and Bigger Walks
Autumn might just be our favourite time to visit the North York Moors as the heather-covered landscape takes on rich autumnal tones, woodland paths become wonderfully crunchy underfoot and the misty mornings give the whole place a rather mystical and magical feel.
Goathland is a particularly lovely place to explore with your pooch while Dalby Forest is another obvious choice for stretching four legs. If you are staying around Helmsley way, there are plenty of opportunities to combine a countryside walk with a wander around the town.
For something a little more unusual, why not visit Helmsley Walled Garden? Dogs on leads are welcome, and it makes a lovely stop during a day exploring the area.
Fancy staying nearby? Fortune Cottage in Osmotherley is a particularly tempting option for autumn, with Cod Beck Reservoir just a ten-minute stroll away and a fully enclosed garden waiting for muddy paws at the end of the day.
Yorkshire Coast: Bracing Walks and Flapping Ears
Autumn does not mean the beach is off limits. Quite the opposite – the Yorkshire coast is wonderfully atmospheric once the summer crowds have disappeared back home. Wrap up warm, let the dog have a good sniff around and enjoy the sound of the waves without having to dodge quite so many buckets and spades!!
Whitby, Sandsend, Robin Hood’s Bay and Filey all make brilliant bases for a coastal escape, although remember that some beaches have seasonal dog restrictions, so it is always worth checking before you set off.
For more inspiration, have a browse through our guide to dog-friendly places to stay and visit in Yorkshire, packed with ideas for days out with your four-legged friend.
And if you are planning a proper coastal break, our dog-friendly Yorkshire holiday cottages make an excellent base for exploring.
Yorkshire’s Market Towns: Pubs, Cakes & More
You do not always need to head deep into the countryside for a good dog walk. Some of Yorkshire’s loveliest market towns are surrounded by beautiful walking country, meaning you can combine a ramble with a wander around the shops, a slice of cake or, naturally, a pub lunch.
Richmond is a particular favourite, with the River Swale and surrounding countryside providing plenty of opportunities for stretching your legs. Helmsley, Leyburn and Skipton are also excellent choices for a day out with your dog.
And if the weather takes a turn for the worse? Well, that is what cosy country pubs are for.
We have put together a rather useful list of dog-friendly cosy pubs in Yorkshire for exactly this sort of occasion. Expect roaring fires, hearty food and plenty of places where muddy boots and wagging tails are welcome.
Top Tips for Autumn Dog Walks in Yorkshire…
Autumn walks are glorious, but Yorkshire’s countryside comes with a few responsibilities like keeping your dog under control around livestock and following local signs about leads. Yorkshire Escapes also asks guests to keep dogs on leads outside their property’s garden, particularly where there is farmland or livestock nearby. And, perhaps most importantly, shut every gate behind you. Even the cleverest dog can be surprisingly enthusiastic when there is a sheep involved!
It is also worth packing a towel. Or three. A spare lead, plenty of poo bags, water and a good supply of treats are sensible additions too. Your dog may have absolutely no intention of coming home when called, but bribery has been known to work wonders.
Muddy Paws, Rosy Cheeks and a Cosy Cottage
Perhaps the best thing about an autumn dog walk is what comes afterwards. There is something very satisfying about returning to a warm cottage after a few hours outside. Boots by the door, muddy towels in the utility room, the kettle on and a very tired dog curled up somewhere cosy. Autumn in Yorkshire is made for exactly this.
So, if you fancy swapping the summer crowds for golden woodland, misty moors, crisp country air and a few gloriously muddy adventures, have a look at our collection of dog-friendly holiday cottages in Yorkshire.
Because the best Yorkshire walks are not always the cleanest ones. And quite frankly, we would not have it any other way!!!
