Knaresborough is one of my favourite spots for a day out with a dog, and it is only about twenty minutes up the road from us here in Wigginton. It has everything you want for a proper canine day: a wooded river gorge to explore, the ruins of an old castle with views over the water, a pretty market town full of tea rooms, and just enough of a hill to tire out an energetic pup. Here is how I would spend a dog-friendly day in Knaresborough, from one dog owner to another.
Start with a riverside walk through Nidd Gorge
If your dog needs a proper leg-stretch, the Nidd Gorge and Old Bilton walk is the one. The paths follow the River Nidd through ancient broadleaved woodland, with a pedestrian bridge across the water and plenty of shady stretches for warm days. In spring the bluebells are worth the trip on their own.
The woodland is cared for by the Woodland Trust, and dogs are very welcome. Do keep an eye on the river banks, which can be steep in places, and pop your dog back on the lead near wildlife and grazing areas. The full circular is around four miles, so pack water and allow a good couple of hours.
Groomer's tip: Woodland and riverside walks mean muddy paws and burrs in the coat, especially on spaniels, doodles and terriers. A quick check-over of the ears, feet and tummy when you get home saves a lot of matting later.
Explore the castle grounds
Up in the town, the grounds of Knaresborough Castle give you a short historic loop with wonderful views out over the gorge and the famous railway viaduct. The grounds are open all year and dogs on leads are welcome to wander with you.
One thing worth knowing: dogs are allowed in the castle grounds, but not inside the keep, the Courthouse Museum or on the Sally Port tours. You can check current details on the North Yorkshire Council castle page. Assistance dogs are the exception and can go where you go.
Wander the market town
Knaresborough itself is lovely to potter around with a dog. The cobbled streets down towards the river are full of independent shops, and many of the tea rooms and cafes are happy to have a well-behaved dog settle at your feet. It is the sort of place where someone will always stop to say hello to your pup.
A few pointers for a smooth visit:
- Take a travel mat so your dog has somewhere comfy to settle at a cafe.
- Ask before you go into any shop or tea room, as policies vary and outdoor seating is usually the safest bet on a busy day.
- Carry plenty of water and poo bags, as the hills and cobbles can be thirsty work.
Make a day of it
A great Knaresborough day might look like a morning through the Nidd Gorge woods, a relaxed lunch at a dog-friendly tea room in the town, and an afternoon stroll around the castle grounds to take in the view. It is a gentle, low-fuss day out, which is exactly what most of us want with a dog in tow.
Frequently asked questions
Is Knaresborough dog-friendly?
Very. You have riverside woodland walks, the castle grounds, and a town full of tea rooms and cafes where dogs on leads are usually welcome. Always double-check individual venues before you go in.
Can dogs walk through Nidd Gorge?
Yes. The Woodland Trust welcomes dogs in the Nidd Gorge woods. Keep to the paths, watch the steep river banks, and lead your dog near wildlife and grazing areas.
Are dogs allowed at Knaresborough Castle?
Dogs on leads are welcome in the castle grounds, which are open all year. They are not permitted inside the keep, the museum or on tours, apart from assistance dogs.
How far is Knaresborough from York?
Around twenty minutes by car, which makes it an easy dog-friendly day out for anyone in the York and Wigginton area.
Fluffs is a professional dog grooming salon in Wigginton, York, offering one-to-one grooming for dogs of every breed and coat type across Haxby, Strensall, Huntington, New Earswick and the surrounding villages. After a muddy day in the gorge, we will get your dog clean, comb-through and comfortable again. Book a post-adventure groom today.