Are Dogs Allowed at York Designer Outlet? (2026 Guide)

It's one of the most-asked questions from York dog owners planning a shopping trip, so let's answer it clearly: no, dogs are not allowed inside York Designer Outlet, only assistance dogs. The McArthur Glen centre operates a no-dog policy throughout the indoor mall.

Here's the full picture, including what you can do with your dog if you're heading there, so you're not caught out on the day.

The official policy

York Designer Outlet (run by McArthur Glen, just off the A64/A19 near Fulford) is an indoor centre, and its policy is that only assistance dogs are permitted inside the building. The centre has said that, being indoors, it's harder to accommodate dogs than their open-air outlets like Cheshire Oaks, and after trialling dogs inside in the past, they made the decision to keep to assistance dogs only. There are no immediate plans to change this.

So if you were hoping to browse the shops with your dog at your side, unfortunately that's not possible here.

What you can do with your dog

It's not all bad news. The centre is set in landscaped grounds, and there's outdoor greenery and water fountains where your dog is welcome to enjoy the surroundings. Realistically, though, that only works if there are two of you: one to shop while the other waits outside with the dog.

Please don't leave your dog in the car while you shop. Even on a mild day, car temperatures climb dangerously fast, and it's simply not safe (see our guide on keeping your dog cool and safe). If you can't bring a second person to wait with your dog, it's better to leave them at home for this particular trip.

Dog-friendly alternatives in York

If you want a day out where your dog is genuinely welcome, York city centre is far more dog-friendly than the outlet. The Shambles and Shambles Market, riverside walks, dozens of dog-friendly pubs and cafés, and open-top bus and river cruise tours all welcome dogs. Our dog-friendly days out in York guide has the full rundown.

Frequently asked questions

Are dogs allowed in York Designer Outlet? No. Only assistance dogs are permitted inside the McArthur Glen York Designer Outlet. It's an indoor centre with a no-dog policy for all other dogs.

Can I take my dog to McArthur Glen York? Not inside the building. Assistance dogs only are allowed indoors, though there's outdoor greenery and water outside where dogs are welcome if someone can wait with them.

Is there anywhere to leave my dog at York Designer Outlet? There are no dog-minding facilities, and you should never leave a dog in a parked car. The practical options are to bring someone to wait outside with your dog, or leave them at home.

Where can I go shopping with my dog near York? York city centre is much more dog-friendly. The Shambles, Shambles Market and many independent shops welcome dogs, as do numerous cafés and pubs.

Policies can change, so it's always worth checking the centre's website before you travel. Fluffs is a professional dog grooming salon in Wigginton, York, caring for dogs across Haxby, Strensall, Huntington, New Earswick and beyond. Get in touch to book a groom.