PETS WELCOME SELF CATERING YORKSHIRE MOORS
Rent a holiday cottage in north east Yorkshire in August to see the the largest area of pink and purple heather moorland in England, around the Hole of Horcum in the North York Moors National Park.
Yorkshire is a diverse county, with heather moorland one of the highlights for holidaymakers. The North York Moors National Park draws many visitors, attracted by its rugged beauty. Miles of rights of way paths and opportunities for walking, cycling, mountain biking and horse riding give families lots to do. So, what better destination is there if you want to bring along your pet dog? Wide open spaces and dog friendly accommodation mean you don’t have to leave your important family member behind. In addition to the sweeping moors, unspoilt coastal destinations such as Robin Hood’s Bay bring another dimension.
When looking for accommodation, you are sure to find plenty of cottages with owners only too happy to cater for four legged tourists. A cosy bed, their own drinking bowl and perhaps a garden to run around in are all they require to settle in.
Walking with your faithful companion by your side is a relaxing pastime on holiday, and your pet will enjoy sniffing out strange, new territory. Some long established long distance routes cross through the area, and you can join The Cleveland Way (put the lead on over parts of moorland where there might be nesting birds) or the Lyke Wake Walk (again, obey restrictions during bird breeding season). Always do some research into whether there are any stiles that may prove problematic for your dog. Dalby Forest is a great place for walking the dog, as almost all of the trails allow dogs to be off the lead. Most of the route takes you through open countryside, rather than in the actual forest. At least you won’t have to endure your dog stopping at a million trees!
YORKSHIRE STEAM TRAINS AND OTHER TRANSPORT
Go back in time on holiday in Yorkshire
With such a large area, it’s easy to find places for long walks; just follow any restrictions in farmland or near nesting birds at certain times of the year. As for stopping for refreshments, many pubs offer a warm doggie welcome and several tea rooms have outside spaces for dogs to recuperate from their excursions.
Another enjoyable activity whilst on holiday here is seeing the countryside from the seat of a steam train. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway offers the opportunity for this most romantic way to travel, and dogs are welcome on the trains, for a small charge, apart from dining trains. They must be under control and are not permitted in first class carriages. You can travel to the popular seaside town of Whitby on the train. Other stops include Grosmont, where the station offers a nostalgic trip back to the 1950s and Goathland, where the station served as Hogsmeade Station, so beloved of Harry Potter fans. The market town of Pickering is another stop, and this time, the station is straight from the 1930’s era. When in the town, be sure to see Pickering Castle and the Beck Isle Museum of Rural Life.
Whatever your mode of transport for getting around, this area is rich in wildlife, beauty spots and local culture. You and your dog will love exploring together!
