The North York Moors is a stunning expanse of heather-clad moorland, ancient woodlands, and picturesque dales, making it an incredible place for a walk with your dog. With miles of footpaths, open access land, and breath taking views, it’s a haven for both two-legged and four-legged explorers. However, as with all outdoor spaces, it’s important to respect the land, wildlife, and local farming communities.
Dressing appropriately is essential and there’s nowhere better to kit yourself and your dog out for a walk on the moors than Rydale Clothing, a Yorkshire based company that not only has a wide range of quality walking clothes and accessories for humans but stocks fleeces and raincoats for dogs too.
The weather out on the moors can change rapidly at short notice so I always wear layers and take a jacket to protect me from sudden downpours or quite often, constant rain! Obviously good quality walking boots are essential and I ensure that I have packed my map, compass and mobile phone in my back pack as well! As far as the dogs go I pack a fleece and raincoat for them.
Lucia and I togged up in some Rydale Clothing for a walk on the moors at the end of February and I’m not going to lie, I was really suprised at how good the quality of the items were, I mean their clothes are literally less than half the price of the walking gear I usually buy, but absolutely on par when it comes to quality, functionality and attention to detail. I will certainly be purchasing a few more pieces from Rydale Clothing’s range and a couple more fleeces for the spaniels as well.
Before heading out, it’s essential to be mindful of the unique environment of the moors. The North York Moors is home to an array of wildlife, including ground-nesting birds, and is also a working landscape with livestock grazing in many areas. Below I have listed some points to bear in mind when walking your dog on the North York Moors.
Keep your dog on a lead during nesting season (March 1st to July 31st) – Many birds nest on the ground and are easily disturbed by dogs. Keeping your dog on a lead ensures these birds can safely raise their young.
Respect livestock and keep dogs under control – Many moorland paths pass through grazing land, where sheep and cattle roam. Even the friendliest of dogs can cause distress to livestock, so always keep your dog close and under control.
Follow open access land rules – While much of the moors is designated as open access land, allowing walkers more freedom, dogs are not allowed on al of it and must follow designated paths. Furthermore they must be kept on a lead of no more than 2 meters during nesting season and in areas where livestock is present.
If your dog is like mine and loves the freedom of running off lead there are lots of forests in the North York Moors National Park where they can run free year round.
Leave no trace – Always clean up after your dog and take waste with you, even in remote areas. This helps keep the landscape pristine for all visitors and protects the environment.
Pack essentials: Bring water and snacks for both you and your dog, as natural water sources can be scarce on the high moors and don’t forget your map, compass and mobile phone.
Check the weather: The moors can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in conditions. Dress appropriately and be prepared for all weather.
Support local businesses: Many dog-friendly pubs and cafes are scattered throughout the North York Moors, perfect for a post-walk
drink and snack.
Dog Walks in the North York Moors
There are so many awesome dog walks in the North York Moors National Park and the very best place to source them is North York Moors official site but here are brief details of three of my personal favourites
The Hole of Horcum is a stunning natural amphitheatre, often called the “Devil’s Punchbowl.” It’s about 400 feet deep and nearly a mile across, created by erosion over thousands of years, and the 5-mile circular walk starting from Saltergate car park is one of our favourites. The trail takes you through open countryside, past heather-covered hills, and across Levisham Moor. It’s a mix of easy paths with a couple of slightly steeper bits, but nothing too taxing. Personally I recommend doing it in August as long as it is not too hot for your dog, as the whole area is covered in stunning purple heather.
There is a nice easy 6 mile walk at Rosedale Abbey The route follows the old Rosedale Ironstone Railway, which once transported iron ore from the valley. You’ll pass old mining ruins, rolling hills, and peaceful moorland, with some great vantage points over Rosedale. A great one if you are interested in history like me. Parking for this walk is in Rosedale Abbey (not really an abbey!) but be aware that one of the roads that leads to the village is by way of Chimney Bank Hill so if you don’t want a drive that takes your breath away take the B1400 to get there!
I just love the coastal paths and over many years I have completed nearly every section around Britain, just a few sections of the South West and a couple in the North of England to do. Some sections though I have walked multiple times and Ravenscar to Robin Hood’s Bay is one of them. I love it and so do my dogs, the walk is around 9 miles and the beauty of it is that you can walk out via the cinder track and return on the coastal path to take in the fantastic coastal views. Don’t forget to take a pitstop in Robin Hood’s Bay where there are many dog-friendly cafes and pubs as well as cute little shops to browse round.
So what are you waiting for? Get yourself over to Rydale Clothing for some great country clothing for you and your dog and then head to the North York Moors site where there is a comprehensive guide to dog walks in the area with accurate route descriptions and decide where you want to go.
Love Sal. Maya and Lucia xxx
* This article contains mentions of gifted products
