If you are looking for a day out where your dog is genuinely part of the plan rather than an afterthought, Malton is hard to beat. This handsome market town in Ryedale, about half an hour from York, has built a real reputation as a place that welcomes dogs, and it also happens to be known as Yorkshire's Food Capital. Good walks, good food and a genuinely warm welcome for your four-legged friend: that is my kind of day out.
Why Malton is such a dog-friendly town
Malton has been recognised for its dog-friendliness for years. Back in 2018 it was named the UK's most dog-friendly town at the Dog Friendly Awards, run in association with the Kennel Club, and it has leaned into that reputation ever since. You will notice water bowls outside shops, dogs snoozing under cafe tables, and staff who are used to greeting a wagging tail.
The town's official tourism site, Visit Malton, is a good place to check current opening times and events before you set off.
Talbot Yard Food Court
The heart of foodie Malton is Talbot Yard, a former coaching inn courtyard now home to a cluster of independent artisan producers. You will find a coffee roastery, a bakery, a gelato maker, a chocolatier and more, all in one pretty cobbled yard.
The outdoor courtyard setting makes it lovely and easy to enjoy with a dog at your side. Grab a coffee, let your pup settle on a mat, and take in the "field to fork" atmosphere. As always, do check with each individual trader about their own dog policy before heading indoors.
Worth knowing: Food courts are full of tempting smells and dropped crumbs. Keep your dog close and resist the urge to share, as many popular treats (chocolate, grapes and anything with the sweetener xylitol) are toxic to dogs.
Walks and green space
Malton and neighbouring Norton sit on the River Derwent, and there are gentle riverside and countryside walks to enjoy around the town once you have had your fill of food and shops. A stroll along the water is the perfect way to let a well-fed dog stretch their legs before the drive home.
A few practical tips for a smooth visit:
- Bring a travel mat so your dog has somewhere comfortable to settle at cafes and in the food court.
- Pack water and poo bags, and take advantage of the quieter side streets if the town is busy.
- Ask before entering any shop, as some welcome dogs inside and others prefer them at outdoor tables.
Make a day of it
A great Malton day might look like a morning wander round the independent shops, coffee and a treat in Talbot Yard, a riverside walk to work it off, and home again with a happy, tired dog. It is relaxed, it is friendly, and it is only a short hop from York.
Frequently asked questions
Is Malton dog-friendly?
Very. Malton was named the UK's most dog-friendly town at the 2018 Dog Friendly Awards, and the town is full of shops, cafes and outdoor spaces that welcome dogs. Always confirm individual venues before you go in.
Can I take my dog to Talbot Yard?
Talbot Yard is an outdoor cobbled courtyard, which makes it easy to enjoy with a dog at your side. Check each trader's own policy before heading inside any of the units.
How far is Malton from York?
Around half an hour by car, making it an easy dog-friendly day out for anyone in the York and Wigginton area.
What should I bring for a day out in Malton with my dog?
Water, poo bags, a travel mat for cafe stops, and a lead for busy streets. A towel in the car is handy too if you fit in a riverside walk.
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