Set inside the walls of York are some of the most dog-friendly pubs in England. There’s no need for your dog to miss out on a session at your favourite boozer; head to one of the classic pubs, or gates as they’re known, for a completely dog-friendly day out. The city is renowned for catering to every type of visitor, canine ones included, which is great for locals and the visiting dog community. So whether you’re looking to get immerse yourself in history or just finish off a walk around the walls with a pint or two, here are some of York’s best dog-friendly pubs.
1. The Ackhorne Inn
Address & Map: 9 St Martin’s Ln, YO1 6LR
If you’re looking for a quintessential ‘olde English’ pub head down one of York’s many cobbled lanes to The Ackhorne Inn. Dogs and their owners are happy customers here so don’t be surprised if the staff ask if your dog is eating too when you order. With doggy treats waiting on the bar, water bowls and plenty of fuss from the team, your dog may start visiting The Ackhorne without you! While they’re in doggy heaven, you can sit back with a book and enjoy some of York’s best local ales and a simple snack from the bar. There’s not just one but two drinking areas for your dog to curl up in, plus a pleasant courtyard and garden for sunny afternoons. For a post-lunch walk or doggy-dip you’re close to the River Ouse.
2. The Fleece Inn
Address & Map: 47 Main St, Bishop Wilton, YO42 1RU
A warm welcome awaits dogs and their owners at The Fleece Inn, set in Bishop Wilton. A prime location on the edge of the Yorkshire Wolds, offering an excellent pitstop for dogs walking in from the nearby surroundings. The pub boasts open fires to curl up next to, sofas to sink into and a great selection of drinks. Owners can eat with their dogs in the bar and if you fancy spending the night, The Fleece Inn has dog-friendly rooms as well. After a long stroll around nearby Burnby Gardens, Dalby Forest or Castle Howard, stop in for a cool bowl of water for your dog and pub-grub classics like hunters chicken and steak and chips for you.
3. The Gillygate
Address & Map: Claremont Terrace, YO31 7EJ
The Gillygate is a traditional pub in York city centre with a difference; dogs are welcome. We say welcome, but what we really mean is, they’re guests of honour once the step through The Gillygate’s doors. Not only can they sprawl out to their heart’s content in the pub itself, but they can also stay over in the pub’s guest rooms if needed. Free parking makes this a perfect pitstop that’s within walking or driving distance of many prime historical attractions. Their drool-worthy specials include dishes such as pan-seared duck, and honey and mustard glazed ham, with all of the trimmings. On nice days, head to the courtyard where spots in the sun make it a favourite for dogs and their owners.
4. The Brigantes Bar
Address & Map: 114 Micklegate, YO1 6JX
Close to the city walls is dog-friendly watering hole The Brigantes Bar. Like all pubs under the umbrella of the dog-loving Market Town Tavern group, The Brigantes Bar is no stranger to York’s canine community. Dogs get lots of fuss in this very friendly pub, where people are welcome too. Humans can expect fresh food prepared using locally-sourced produce, while dogs can tuck into gravy bones and water bowls. If you call ahead, they’ll even get them ready in advance. When your dog’s exhausted from having attention lavished on them, let them nap under the table while you sample the ten hand-pulled ales on offer.
There’s nothing better than grabbing a drink with your best friend. But not all dogs enjoy pubs—and that’s fine. Certain venues can get quite busy in the evening so your little buddy might prefer to be tucked up in bed if the surroundings are too loud. If you love going out to the pub but your dog prefers to stay at home, don’t worry, we’ve got you! You can find lots of local sitters who provide dog boarding in York on Rover.com, so your little mate will always have some company while you enjoy a night on the town.