Welcome to Harrogate — a spa town in North Yorkshire filled with beautiful parks, historic charm, and plenty of tail-wagging adventures. With its wide open spaces, welcoming cafés, and scenic walks, dog-friendly Harrogate has so much to offer. Here’s how to make the most of your time in this ancient town, perhaps find your own Harrogate house sitting opportunity, or even source a local Harrogate pet sitter to keep your pup company. Let’s begin…
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Dog parks in Harrogate
Valley Gardens
A gorgeous mix of formal gardens, woodland, and open lawns. Dogs are welcome on leads, and there are plenty of winding paths, a stream, and benches to take in the views. There’s also onsite coffee kiosk with water bowls for dogs, and close to pet-friendly cafés.
Location: Valley Dr, Harrogate HG1 2SZ, United Kingdom
The Stray
The vast majority of this 200 acres of open grassy parkland is off leash! It’s the perfect place for zoomies, games of fetch, and long strolls. Plus, it’s mostly flat, ideal for all abilities.
Location: 16 W Park, Harrogate HG1 1BJ, United Kingdom
Pinewoods
This is a peaceful woodland area with soft trails, ideal for off-lead exploration. It connects to the Pinewoods Conservation Group walk, offering a mini forest adventure.
Dog-friendly restaurants in Harrogate
The Ivy Harrogate
Described as elegant, with a touch of glam, this upscale restaurant welcomes pups onto their outdoor patio, which is very popular in the summer. Staff are super welcoming and may bring water for your pup.
Location: 7-9 Parliament St, Harrogate HG1 2QU, United Kingdom
The Fat Badger
This cosy, traditional pub with fine dining flair for classic British cuisine, welcome pups of all kinds, too. Water bowls and dog treats available on request.
Location: Cold Bath Rd, Harrogate HG2 0NF, United Kingdom
Starling
A laid-back and lively atmosphere surrounded by craft beers and great food, all while your pup can keep you company, ideal! This is great place to enjoy pizzas, burgers, brunch, and beer, and for doggos to snack on some homemade dog biscuits.
Fun dog-friendly activities in Harrogate
Ripley Castle Grounds
While dogs aren’t allowed in the castle gardens, the public footpaths around the estate are stunning and dog-friendly. You’ll find open fields, a lake, and views of the castle. Plus, the nearby village of Ripley has dog-friendly cafés and a great ice cream shop.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: Every day: 10 am - 4 pm
Location: Ripley, Harrogate HG3 3AY, United Kingdom
Betty’s Tea Rooms
Betty’s is renowned afternoon tea extravaganza, so much so it’s considered more of an activity than a simple cafe hangout. What’s more, they offer special doggy treats or even dog afternoon teas with pupcakes and biscuits.
Cost: Menu dependent
Date and time: Sundays to Thursdays: 9 am - 5 pm, Fridays & Saturdays: 9 am - 6 pm
Location: 1 Parliament St, Harrogate HG1 2QU, United Kingdom
Dog-friendly walking trails in Harrogate
Nidd Gorge
A peaceful nature trail following the River Nidd, with ancient woodland and dramatic views. It has great off-lead sections and streams for paddling. Just keep an eye out for cyclists and joggers! Otherwise, it’s quiet and less touristy, perfect for dogs that prefer calm environments.
Location: Knaresborough, Harrogate HG5 9DE, UK
Length: 46 hectares (114 acres)
Hookstone Woods
A tucked-away forest trail near Hornbeam Park, it’s a great trail for all-weather option — just bring towels for muddy paws. This are is less trafficked, full of new scents, and ideal for off-lead strolls if your dog has good recall.
Location: Harrogate, UK
Length: 8.84 hectares (21.84 acres)
Dog-friendly cafes in Harrogate
Hoxton North
Known as a trendy coffee spot turned brunch haven, it’s also a welcome to doggy guests inside and outside. Pups are welcome to kickback and relax with their humans with their own water bowl.
Location: 1A Royal Parade, Harrogate HG1 2SZ, United Kingdom
Baltzersen’s
Scandinavian-inspired café with a calm atmosphere is run by a very dog-friendly team and space to relax by your feet.
Annual dog events in Harrogate
Harrogate Dog Show 2025
An annual event celebrating its fourth year, featuring seven categories including 'Cutest Puppy' and 'Best Trick'. The show offers a great opportunity for dogs to showcase their talents and for owners to meet fellow dog enthusiasts. Coinciding with the dog show, a pet-themed market will be held on Cambridge Street, offering a variety of products and services for pets.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: Saturday, April 12, 2025
Location: Victoria Shopping Centre Piazza, Station Parade, Harrogate HG1 1AE
DogFest at Harewood House
vibrant festival dedicated to dogs and their owners, featuring activities such as agility courses, expert talks, live music, and shopping. It's an ideal day out for the whole family, including your four-legged friend. Participate in the Big Dog Walk and support local rescues through donations.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: Saturday and Sunday, September 13–14, 2025
Location: Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG, United Kingdom
The best dog-friendly bars in Harrogate
Cold Bath Brewing Co.
Industrial-chic microbrewery and kitchen that welcomes pups with open paws! Dogs can be guaranteed water bowls, lots of attention, and often other dogs to say hello to.
Location: 46 King's Rd, Harrogate HG1 5JW, United Kingdom
Major Tom’s Social
A great place to winddown and listen to some music in a laidback, dog loving atmosphere.
Dog-friendly wineries near Harrogate
Yorkshire Heart Vineyard & Brewery
An award-winning, family-run vineyard and brewery nestled between Harrogate and York. Visitors are encouraged to bring their well-behaved dogs to explore the vineyard grounds and enjoy the Winehouse Café, which offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Resident Labradors, Jazz and Molly, often greet guests. Dogs should be kept on a lead, and a small fee applies for those staying at the campsite.
Location: The Vineyard, Pool Ln, Nun Monkton, York YO26 8EL, United Kingdom
Dunesforde Vineyard
A boutique vineyard located approximately six miles from the A1(M), offering tours and tastings in a picturesque setting. While specific dog policies aren't detailed online, it's advisable to contact them directly to inquire about accommodating your furry friend during a visit.
Tips on dog-friendly things to do in Harrogate from dog owners and pet sitters
Tips for pet parents
Always carry poo bags
Harrogate is clean and well kept city, so do you bit as a responsible pet parent and remember to bring poop bags.
Water bowls
Some of the loca dog-friendly parks in Harrogate have fountains or bowls near cafés for thirsty pups on the go. But always make sure you have enough water on you, regardless.
Check signage
Some areas (especially flower beds in Valley Gardens) require dogs to be kept on leads, so always presume an area is on-leash unless clearly specified.
Plan ahead for your vacation
Planning a day out locally is simple, but what about when it’s time for a holiday? Well as vets agree pets are happier at home, consider connecting with a trusted Harrogate pet sitter ahead of your next trip. Click below to find out how.
Connect with pet sitters in Harrogate
Tips for pet sitters
Map out your walkies like a pro
Don’t just wing it! Before the owner leaves, ask about the dog’s usual walking routes, favorite sniffing spots, and any places to avoid.
Stay informed
Always check the specific pet policies of activities and eateries before visiting, as guidelines can change.
Local pet shops
Look out for Pets Corner or Paws in the City for toys, treats, or forgotten essentials.
Experience Harrogate through house sitting
So, want to take care of a new furry friend in exchange for a place to stay? Click below to find out how to secure a Harrogate house sit.
How to find house sits in Harrogate
