Dog-Friendly Thirsk and Ryedale: A Local Guide for York Dog Owners

North and east of York, Thirsk and the wider Ryedale area give you a proper spread of dog-friendly days out, from big forest walks to a heritage railway. Some of it is perfect for dogs, some of it is not, and knowing which is which before you set off saves a wasted trip. So here is a straightforward local guide to what works, what to check and where your dog is genuinely welcome.

Thirsk and the World of James Herriot

Thirsk is a classic Yorkshire market town, and it is best known to dog people as the home of James Herriot. The World of James Herriot is an award-winning museum in the vet's original home and surgery, packed with memorabilia and recreated rooms, including sets from the television adaptation.

One honest heads-up: the museum has a no-dogs policy, with assistance dogs the only exception. It is a lovely visit in its own right, but it is one for a day when the dog is at home, or one person stays outside with them while the other pops in. The town itself, with its cobbled square and cafés, is a pleasant place to wander with a dog while you are there.

Good for: A town wander with a dog; the museum itself is assistance dogs only.

Dalby Forest

For a proper walk, Dalby Forest in the heart of Ryedale is one of the best options around. Managed by Forestry England, it is a huge forest with waymarked walking trails through the trees, and dogs are welcome. There is a toll for the forest drive and a visitor centre with facilities, so it is easy to make a full day of it.

As with any working forest and wildlife-rich woodland, keep dogs under close control, follow the on-site signs, and be mindful of cyclists on the shared trails. If you want the current rules or trail closures, the visitor centre is the place to check.

Good for: A big, varied forest walk with room for everyone.

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway runs heritage steam trains through beautiful moorland scenery, and well-behaved dogs are welcome on board for a small charge, which makes for a genuinely different day out. It is a lovely way to reach a village for a walk and let the train do the legwork on the way back. Do check the railway's current timetable, fares and dog policy directly before you travel, as heritage lines vary their services by season.

Good for: A memorable day out where the journey is part of the fun.

Groomer's tip: Forest and moorland means grass seeds in summer and mud in winter. After a Dalby day, run your hands through the coat and check between the toes, under the armpits and around the ears for seeds and tangles, and towel off any wet undercarriage before it mats.

Planning your day

• Check dog policies before you commit. The museum is assistance dogs only; the forest and railway welcome dogs with a few sensible conditions.
• Take water, a bowl and a towel for any of these. Days out are longer and hotter than the usual local loop.
• Keep the lead on around livestock, wildlife and shared trails, and clean up after your dog everywhere.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take my dog to the World of James Herriot in Thirsk? The museum operates a no-dogs policy with assistance dogs as the only exception. You can still enjoy Thirsk town with a dog, but plan the museum for a day when they can stay home.

Are dogs allowed in Dalby Forest? Yes, dogs are welcome at Dalby Forest. Keep them under close control, watch for cyclists on shared trails and follow the signs, and check the visitor centre for any current rules or closures.

Can dogs travel on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway? Well-behaved dogs are welcome on board for a small charge. Check the railway's current timetable and dog policy directly before you travel, as services change by season.

Which Ryedale day out is best for an active dog? Dalby Forest, with its waymarked trails and plenty of space, is the pick for a dog that wants a proper walk.

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 forest or moorland adventure, we will sort out the seeds, mud and tangles and send your dog home comfortable. Book a grooming appointment.