A “stunning” National Trust area in West Yorkshire has been named among the UK’s most dog-friendly forest walks to explore – wondering where?
Hardcastle Crags, located at Hebden Bridge was praised by the experts at Dog Friendly Cottages for its “tranquil woodland trails”.
It comes as Dog Friendly Cottages has launched a new interactive map showcasing the top dog-friendly forests across the UK, making it easier than ever to find the ideal woodland adventure for you and your furry friend - in time for those crisp autumn and winter walks.
You can see the full map here.
What did the experts say about Hardcastle Crags?
- Total ‘paws score’ - 8/10
- Average rating - 4.7 from 360 ratings
- Size - 108.28 hectares
Dog Friendly Cottages shared: “Hardcastle Crags in West Yorkshire is a stunning spot for dog walkers, combining rugged landscapes with tranquil woodland trails.
“Managed by the National Trust, this 108-hectare forest is crisscrossed with paths that lead to dramatic views, flowing streams, and even an old mill, giving you and your dog plenty to discover.
“With four dog-friendly cafés in the area, it’s easy to find a cosy spot to unwind after exploring the trails.
“Visitors rate Hardcastle Crags highly at 4.7, praising its mix of scenic beauty and well-maintained routes.
“It’s an ideal destination for those who enjoy a bit of history and adventure with their dog walk.”
Someone shared: “Went for a walk with some friends, and after looking on here found this hidden gem just up the road from us.
“Gibson Mill and The Scenery is beautiful but the food at the cafe is amazing, all freshly prepared, setting is very very clean, and quite possibly the most relaxing atmosphere this side of my bed!”
Another added: “Beautiful woodlands and walks with lots of wildlife.
“We loved walking round in the fresh air before heading down into Quirky Hebden Bridge for a spot of lunch.”
Things to Consider Before Adopting a Pet
This dog owner commented: “This is a great place to walk your dog. It is really beautiful - a wooded area with paths leading to different parts to explore. There is a big NT car park at the entrance, once parked you are free to amble at your own pace and enjoy spotting wildlife. good day out.”
Recommended reading:
- West Yorkshire's best autumn walks to see leaves change colour, chosen by locals
- Here are some of the best picturesque circular walks in the Yorkshire Dales
- Yorkshire Dales walk with 'sweeping views' among best in autumn and winter
How do Dog Friendly Cottages rank the UK’s most dog-friendly forest walks?
Dog Friendly Cottages explained its thorough analysis considered several “essential” factors to provide each woodland with an overall score out of 10.
The four main criteria include:
- Dog-friendly cafes nearby (within 0.5 miles)
- User ratings – based on the quality of the dog-walking experience
- Total number of reviews – ensuring feedback is trustworthy and balanced
- Woodland size – the larger the space, the more room for your dog to roam
Each woodland was rated on these criteria, providing dog owners with a comprehensive guide to the best spots for their next outdoor adventure.
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