A grassy path winding through ancient oak trees in Nidderdale

DOGS WELCOME

Dog-friendly
Pateley Bridge

Pateley Bridge is exceptionally dog-friendly. The River Nidd, the open moors, and most of the businesses in town welcome dogs with open arms. Here is everything you need to know before you arrive.

On the lead and off it

Best walks for dogs around Pateley Bridge

Riverside loop

Flat, off-lead meadows - 1.5 miles

The Recreation Ground car park is your starting point for the town's best dog walk. Follow the River Nidd downstream through open meadows - dogs can run off lead along most of this stretch. Completely flat and suitable for all dogs.

Off lead sectionsFlat1.5 miles45 min
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Yorke's Folly

Leads on open moor - stunning views

Climb out of Bewerley to the twin towers of Yorke's Folly perched above the dale. Dogs need to be on leads once you reach the open moorland - there is usually ground-nesting wildlife. The views repay the effort for both of you.

Leads on moorlandModerate climb3 miles
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Gouthwaite Reservoir

Leads near water - flat track, 6 miles there and back

A peaceful flat track along the old railway line beside the reservoir. Keep dogs on leads near the water - this is an SSSI nature reserve with ground-nesting birds. Plenty of space on the track itself.

Leads near waterFlat track6 miles return
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Open moorland above the dale

Miles of access land - leads near grazed areas

The moors above Pateley Bridge are open access land. Well-behaved dogs on leads where there are signs, off lead on open heather. Consult an OS map and park at Bewerley or Wath to access the higher ground.

Access landOpen spaceOS map recommended
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Dog-friendly places to eat and drink

Dogs welcome at all of the following - always good to confirm on the day

Pub

The Crown Inn

A 17th century coaching inn at the top of the High Street. Dogs welcome in the pub and the garden. Good ales and hearty food - a natural end point after a walk.

馃搷High Street, Pateley Bridge HG3 5JZ

Pub

The Royal Oak

A traditional dale pub welcoming dogs alongside their owners. Ask for the water bowl on arrival.

馃搷Pateley Bridge

Cafe

Wildings Riverside Cafe

Riverside setting right on the Nidd - outdoor seating where dogs are very welcome. Perfect after the riverside loop walk.

馃搷Riverside, Pateley Bridge

Cafe

Cocoa Joe's

Outside seating with a view of the dale. Dogs welcome at the outdoor tables. Famous for iced drinks and cakes. Worth the trip on a warm day.

馃搷Pateley Bridge

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Cafe & rooms

Talbot House

A Georgian building on the High Street. Dog-friendly at outdoor seating - confirm on the day for indoor access.

馃搷High Street, Pateley Bridge

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Practical info

Paddling in the Nidd

The shallow, pebbly stretch of the River Nidd beside the Recreation Ground is the town's unofficial paddling spot. Dogs love it. The water is clean and the flow is gentle on most days in summer.

When leads are required

Keep dogs on leads on open moorland during nesting season (March to July), near Gouthwaite Reservoir at all times, and anywhere you see livestock signage. Most of the dale has clearly marked paths.

Nearest vets

There are vet practices in Pateley Bridge and in Harrogate (14 miles). Ask your accommodation for the nearest contact. The Harrogate practices include 24-hour emergency cover.

Parking with dogs

The Showground Car Park (HG3 5LG) is the main car park and has green space nearby for a quick leg-stretch after the drive. The Recreation Ground car park (HG3 5LG) is right next to the river.

Plan your dog-friendly stay

Several holiday cottages and B&Bs in the dale welcome dogs. Book early for summer - dog-friendly places fill up fast.

Places to stay