Ripon is an excellent base for dog friendly walking, sitting right on the edge of Nidderdale AONB and surrounded by rivers, parkland and classic North Yorkshire countryside. Whether you are after a short leg stretch close to town or a longer hike that feels properly rural, there is plenty of choice within a short drive.
The walks below offer a good mix of easy, accessible routes and more varied countryside rambles. Each one works well with dogs, but conditions and restrictions can change, so it is always worth checking signage and keeping a lead handy.
1. Studley Royal Deer Park Loop
This is one of the most iconic walks near Ripon, winding through the landscaped grounds of Studley Royal. Wide gravel paths, sweeping lawns and mature trees create a relaxed walking environment that feels open and spacious throughout the year. The scenery changes subtly as you move through the park, with long views across the valley and pockets of woodland that add interest.
Dogs are welcome but must remain on a lead at all times due to the resident deer, which roam freely across the parkland. It can be busy during peak times, especially at weekends, but the scale of the landscape means it rarely feels cramped underfoot.
- Distance: ~4 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Off lead potential: None
- Parking: Yes
2. River Skell Riverside Walk
This gentle riverside walk follows the River Skell as it meanders away from Ripon city centre, offering a surprisingly peaceful escape so close to town. The route passes through grassy meadows, shaded banks and quiet green corridors, with plenty of spots to pause and enjoy the sound of running water.
It is well suited to dogs of all ages, including puppies and older dogs who may not manage longer distances. After wet weather, some sections can become muddy, but the relaxed nature of the walk makes it an ideal option for an easy outing or a quick morning stroll.
- Distance: ~2.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
3. Fountains Abbey to Seven Bridges Walk
This longer walk links historic parkland with woodland and riverside paths, creating a varied and rewarding route. Starting near Fountains Abbey, the path leads you through formal landscapes before opening out into quieter, more natural surroundings as you move away from the main estate.
Dogs must be kept on a lead within the busier areas of the grounds, but there are sections further along where things feel calmer and more open. It is a great option if you want a walk that feels like a proper day out, with plenty to see along the way.
- Distance: ~6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
4. Ripon Canal Path
The canal towpath offers a flat, steady walk that is ideal when you want something straightforward and predictable. The calm water, narrowboats and surrounding greenery give the route a peaceful feel, making it popular with dog walkers looking for a relaxed pace.
It works well as an out and back walk, allowing you to tailor the distance to suit your dog. The firm surface also makes it a reliable choice during wetter months, when field based routes elsewhere can become difficult going.
- Distance: ~3 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
5. Hackfall Woods Circular Walk
Hackfall Woods offers a more dramatic landscape, with wooded slopes, rocky paths and waterfalls carved into the valley side. The terrain feels wilder than many walks around Ripon, with narrow paths and frequent changes in elevation keeping things interesting.
Care is needed around steep drops and uneven ground, so dogs should be kept under close control, particularly in busier sections. It is a rewarding walk for confident hikers who enjoy woodland scenery and a slightly more adventurous feel.
- Distance: ~4 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
6. Nidderdale Way From Pateley Bridge
This stretch of the Nidderdale Way showcases classic Yorkshire countryside, with open moorland, rolling fields and far reaching views across the AONB. The sense of space is a highlight here, especially on clear days when the landscape really opens up around you.
The route is more exposed than others on this list, so weather conditions can have a big impact on how it feels. Livestock is common along the way, making this best suited to dogs that are comfortable walking on a lead when needed.
- Distance: ~5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Off lead potential: Limited
- Parking: Yes
7. Markenfield Hall Woodland Walk
This quieter countryside walk explores woodland and farmland around the historic Markenfield Hall. It is noticeably less busy than many of the better known walks near Ripon, making it a good choice if you prefer a calmer, more relaxed atmosphere.
Paths are generally easy to follow, with a mix of woodland tracks and open sections that provide variety without being too demanding. It suits dogs that enjoy sniffing their way through shaded woodland and gentle countryside paths.
- Distance: ~3.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
8. Brimham Rocks Outer Loop
A short drive from Ripon brings you to Brimham Rocks, where dramatic rock formations dominate the landscape. The outer loop keeps you away from the busiest central areas while still delivering impressive views and a sense of scale that makes the walk feel special.
Dogs are welcome on leads, with care needed around rocky edges and uneven ground. This is a great option on clear days when visibility is good and the surrounding countryside really comes into view.
- Distance: ~4 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Off lead potential: None
- Parking: Yes
Visiting Ripon With Your Dog: Things To Know
- Livestock awareness: Many routes pass through grazing land, particularly in Nidderdale. Always carry a lead and use it when required.
- Seasonal conditions: Muddy paths are common in winter, while exposed routes can feel challenging in hot or windy weather.
- Water and shade: Longer walks and moorland routes offer limited shelter. Bring enough water for both you and your dog.
- Parking: Official car parks are available for most walks but can fill quickly at weekends and during school holidays.
Map Of Dog Friendly Walks Around Ripon
Explore these dog friendly walks using our handy map below, simply click the pins to get more information and directions to the nearest car park.
Brimham Rocks is a proper crowd-pleaser, and with good reason. The landscape feels dramatic and a bit otherworldly, with huge rock formations and big open views across the moor. The outer loop is a smart way to enjoy it with a dog, because you can keep moving and dodge some of the busiest pinch points near the main clusters of rocks.
Underfoot, it’s a mix of firm paths and rocky sections, so it’s not hard, but you do need to watch your footing. Dogs are welcome, but close control is important because of the terrain, wildlife and the sheer number of people around on a good day. In nesting and lambing season, expect lead-on expectations to tighten.
Distance: ~4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off lead potential: None
Parking: Yes
Best for: Big views, unique scenery, photo-worthy landscapes
Restrictions: Dogs under close control and often best on lead
Markenfield Hall sits in quiet countryside south of Ripon, and the walking here has a very different feel to the busier headline spots. Think lanes, footpaths, hedgerows and little pockets of woodland that give you that calm, rural rhythm. It’s a good choice if you want a walk that feels local and low-key, where you can focus on the simple stuff like fresh air, steady pacing and letting your dog enjoy the smells.
Because the terrain is a mix of paths and quiet lanes, this is one for dogs who walk well on lead when needed. After wet weather, some field edges can get soft underfoot. If you want a peaceful option that does not revolve around a major attraction, this one is a strong shout.
Distance: ~3.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Off lead potential: Some (only away from roads and livestock)
Parking: Limited (no large public car park)
Best for: Quiet countryside, calmer walks, avoiding crowds
Restrictions: Keep a lead handy around lanes and livestock
If you want classic Nidderdale countryside in a manageable dose, Pateley Bridge is a brilliant launch point. You can pick up well-used walking routes that quickly trade town edges for riverside views and open landscape. It feels properly “out there” without being remote, and the variety makes it a solid choice if you like a walk that changes character as you go.
This one is best treated as a flexible route rather than a strict single trail. You can do a short loop along the River Nidd or build out into longer stretches on the Nidderdale Way. Because you’re in proper walking country, expect other walkers, plus livestock depending on the exact loop you choose, so lead control matters.
Distance: ~5 miles (easy to extend)
Difficulty: Moderate
Off lead potential: Limited (livestock and popular paths)
Parking: Yes
Best for: Dales views, longer day options, mixed terrain
Restrictions: Lead required around livestock and busy sections
Hackfall Woods is where you go when you want something that feels properly wild without driving deep into the Dales. The woodland sits above the River Ure and gives you a mix of shaded trails, rocky steps, viewpoints and little surprises along the way. It’s a great walk for dogs who love a varied environment, with plenty to sniff and explore.
It’s also a walk where you need to stay switched on. Some paths are uneven, there are steep drops in places, and it can get slick after rain. Keep your dog close where the ground falls away and be ready to pop the lead on quickly if you meet other walkers on narrower sections.
Distance: ~4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off lead potential: Some (only in safer, wider sections)
Parking: Yes
Best for: Woodland adventure, views, confident walkers
Restrictions: Keep close control near steep edges and narrow paths
The Ripon Canal towpath is one of the most straightforward walks in the area, which is exactly why it’s so useful. You get a flat, steady surface that’s ideal when you want something easy on the legs, plus calm water views and a gentle, unhurried vibe. It’s great for loose plans where you just want to get out and move, without worrying about hills or navigation.
Because it’s an out-and-back towpath style walk, you can make it as short or long as you like. It also tends to hold up well in mixed weather compared to field paths. Expect other walkers and the occasional cyclist, so it’s a good place to practise lead manners if your dog gets excited when things pass close by.
Distance: ~3 miles (flexible out-and-back)
Difficulty: Easy
Off lead potential: Some (only if your dog is calm around cyclists)
Parking: Yes (limited)
Best for: Flat walking, winter reliability, gentle pacing
Restrictions: Towpath etiquette, keep control near cyclists
This route is a great “bit of everything” option, mixing historic surroundings with woodland and water. Starting from the main visitor area, you can build a longer loop that takes in quieter paths as you move away from the busiest parts of the estate. You’ll get that classic combination of landscaped parkland and more natural river valley walking, which keeps the pace interesting without feeling hard going.
Because this is a popular visitor attraction, the first part of the walk can feel busier, especially later in the morning. Once you’re out on the longer paths, it opens up and you get a better sense of space. Dogs are welcome but should be kept on lead, particularly around the main estate areas and where wildlife is present.
Distance: ~6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off lead potential: None
Parking: Yes
Best for: A proper half-day walk with scenery and variety
Restrictions: Dogs on lead within the estate
This is the sort of walk you do when you want fresh air without committing to a full hike. Starting close to central Ripon, you can follow the River Skell on gentle paths that feel surprisingly peaceful for something so near town. Expect grassy stretches, riverside views, and a relaxed pace that’s perfect for a quick leg-stretch or an easy weekend potter.
It’s also a handy choice if you’ve got a younger pup or an older dog who does not need miles in the legs, but still loves a good sniff and a change of scenery. After heavy rain, some sections can be soft or muddy, so decent footwear helps. You’ll pass other walkers and dog owners, but it rarely feels hectic.
Distance: ~2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Off lead potential: Some (in quieter stretches, if recall is solid)
Parking: Yes
Best for: Easy outing, older dogs, quick local walk
Restrictions: Keep a lead handy near roads, cyclists, and other dogs
If you want a walk that feels like a proper Yorkshire day out, Studley Royal delivers. You’ve got wide, well-kept paths through grand parkland, big skies, and those long, open views that make even a gentle stroll feel special. It’s ideal for an unhurried wander with plenty of space, plus lots of interest along the way as the landscape shifts between lawns, woodland edges and quiet corners of the estate.
It’s a strong option year round, but it can get busy at weekends and during school holidays, so an early start helps. Dogs are welcome, but this is a lead-on walk due to deer and the nature of the grounds. Keep a shorter lead handy, especially in the more open sections where wildlife is often close by.
Distance: ~4 miles
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Off lead potential: None
Parking: Yes
Best for: Scenery, steady pacing, calmer dogs who are happy on lead
Explore even more dog friendly walks, as well as beaches, campsites, swimming spots and more using our Wildpack Map – a curated list of dog friendly points of interest.
Final Thoughts
Ripon offers a strong mix of dog friendly walks, and is enviably located between The Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors national parks. An ideal home base for adventurous dog owners looking for stunning walks to try. From easy riverside paths to more varied countryside routes within Nidderdale AONB. The combination of accessible terrain and more adventurous options makes it a reliable choice for repeat visits.
Whether you are visiting for a short break or exploring the wider area, these walks provide a solid starting point for discovering Ripon and its surrounding countryside with your dog.