Rosedale Abbey and the Rosedale Railway Trail

Yes, this is a great walk for dogs, earning a solid 7.5 out of 10 on our dog friendly rating. The route follows the old Rosedale Ironstone Railway along the moor edge, offering wide open space and fantastic views. Back in the village, both the Coach House and Milburn Arms welcome dogs, and there are public toilets on the main road.

Once you've climbed up out of the village and onto the old railway line, dogs can generally go off lead along most of the cinder track where livestock is limited and the path is clear. You'll need to keep them on the lead through the fields near the village, at the stone stiles, and anywhere sheep are visible on the moor — so a reliable recall is useful here.

The climb out of Rosedale Abbey is steep for about twenty minutes, but once you're up, the old railway track is flat and easy going underfoot — a mix of firm cinder, grass and stone. Be aware that there are old ladder stiles on the route which bigger dogs may need a lift over. Parking is available around the village green (park considerately) or at the pay and display overflow at Bank Top (YO18 8SE).