Planning to leave the car on the edge of the city and bus into York with your dog? Here's the good news: yes, dogs are allowed on York Park & Ride buses, provided they're well-behaved and kept off the seats.
Here's everything you need to know for a smooth trip.
The Park & Ride dog policy
York's Park & Ride is operated by First Bus on behalf of the council, and the policy is that dogs are permitted on Park & Ride buses provided they are quiet, well-behaved and kept off the seats. Assistance dogs are, of course, always welcome.
A couple of practical points:
- A small fee may apply. First York have historically charged a small amount for carrying dogs, so have a little change or your contactless card ready.
- Keep your dog on the floor, on a lead, and under control. The buses can get busy, especially at weekends and in the run-up to Christmas.
- The buses are modern and electric, with a comfortable, quick run into the centre.
Which Park & Ride site should I use?
York has six Park & Ride sites, all with free parking:
- Askham Bar (No. 3): south-west, near Tesco
- Designer Outlet (No. 7): south, handy for the outlet
- Grimston Bar (No. 8): east
- Monks Cross (No. 9): north-east, near the shopping park
- Poppleton Bar (No. 59): north-west
- Rawcliffe Bar (No. 2): north
Several routes (Askham Bar, Designer Outlet, Monks Cross and Poppleton Bar) stop right outside York Station, dropping you a short walk from the city centre and the start of a great dog-friendly day.
Tips for bussing with your dog
- A tired dog is a calm passenger. A quick walk before you board helps your dog settle.
- Bring a mat or towel if your dog would be more comfortable with their own spot on the floor.
- Avoid the busiest times if your dog finds crowds stressful. Mid-morning is usually calmer than peak commuter times or Saturday afternoons.
- Off the seats, please. It's the one firm rule, so keep your dog on the floor throughout.
Once you're in the centre, York is a wonderfully dog-friendly city. See our guide to dog-friendly days out in York for where to head, or find a spot to stretch their legs in our roundup of the best dog walks and parks in York.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take my dog on York Park & Ride?
Yes. Dogs are allowed on York Park & Ride buses as long as they're quiet, well-behaved and kept off the seats. Assistance dogs are always welcome.
Is there a charge for taking a dog on Park & Ride?
First York have historically charged a small fee for carrying dogs, so it's worth having change or a contactless card ready. Assistance dogs travel free.
Are dogs allowed on First buses in York?
Yes. On First York buses, dogs are generally allowed at the driver's discretion, usually up to two dogs per person. Keep them on a lead and off the seats.
Which York Park & Ride is best for the city centre?
Askham Bar, Designer Outlet, Monks Cross and Poppleton Bar all stop outside York Station, close to the city centre.
Policies can change, so check the First Bus or iTravel York website before you travel. Fluffs is a professional dog grooming salon in Wigginton, York, looking after dogs across Haxby, Strensall, Huntington, New Earswick and beyond. Book a groom.