The Top Five Dog-Friendly Pubs in Yorkshire!

Back in May in the midst of lockdown, the Benchmark Kennels team asked you to get involved and tell us your favourite dog-friendly pubs around Yorkshire. It was a wonderful opportunity for dog-lovers and owners alike to honour our favourite dog-friendly pubs and help spread the word about these welcoming and cosy places to grab a pint. 

First of all, thank you! Our readers didn’t disappoint, with more than 300 of you placing your votes and telling us why your locals are so special to both you and your animals – we absolutely loved hearing from you. 

With Boris deciding to lift some lockdown restrictions on 4th July and many pubs now reopening, its the perfect time to see who our winners are and give credit to the top five and much-loved pubs of Yorkshire. 

Drum roll, please… 

1. The Crown & Cushion, Welburn 

The Crown & Cushion in Welburn, North Yorkshire really do take the crown on this one. They received the majority of votes from dog owners and locals due to their gorgeous setting and friendly approach to dogs joining their families for food or drinks. 

With the building dating back to the 18th Century, its a stunning environment offering locals a place to pop in for a casual drink after a long walk or get dressed up and visit for a fine dining experience. 

In winter, the open fires make the pub a cosy and welcoming place to spend a Sunday, and in summer, the rear terrace is ideal for drinks in the sun. 

Welburn village is located in the district of Rydale, not far from Malton and York. It’s easy to access from the A64 or can be found via foot with there being many popular walks and bird-watching spots around the area that can start or finish at the Crown & Cushion. 

2. The Wheatsheaf Inn, Carperby

Next up is The Wheatsheaf Inn in Wensleydale, set in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park and hugely popular with avid walkers and explorers. There is an abundance of Yorkshire attractions around the area making it the perfect place for a pint at the end of a long day either spent hiking in the dales with your furry friends or simply mooching around the quaint village shops. 

If you’re planning a big walk with the dog and need a place to rest your head afterwards, you can even book a room with your pooch, with many of their single, double and family rooms being completely pet-friendly and offering a home-from-home experience. 

3. The Fountain Hotel, Hawes 

Another North Yorkshire pub comes in at third – The Fountain Hotel in Hawes. This hotel and local prides itself on its wholesome and home-cooked pub grub, welcoming all dogs and children with open arms. 

Popular with sports fans, the pub hosts three screens showing live sport, ideal for watching premiere football which has recently made its post-corona comeback. 

The pub is a favourite of both locals and visitors to the town, with many calling in for a drink or staying the night after a walk around the lovely village of Wensleydale and the Yorkshire Dales. 

4. The Oak Tree, Helperby

In at fourth is The Oak Tree in Helperby, a village full of character and within reach of a range of lovely walks along rivers Ule and Swale or along the old railway line. You can book a room with your dog or simply visit for a few drinks after a nice stroll, with a huge array of local beers, hand-pulled ales and delicious wines to choose from. 

For those looking for a venue for a special occasion, you can even hire out a private party room to host birthdays, cocktail parties or any family gathering and bring your dogs along. 

5. Rose & Crown, Sutton-on-the-Forest 

Last but by no means least is the Rose & Crown. Located in the picturesque village of Sutton-on-the-Forest in North Yorkshire, this pub is the heart of the village community, being the last standing pub in the village and offering a mean Sunday lunch. 

Known to serve some of the best pub food in York, they offer curry nights, steak nights and fresh fish Friday’s – all of which welcome dogs and families to join in. If you’re looking for an affordable place to stop off for a pint and a bite to eat after a long day out around York with it being just eight miles out of the city centre. 

If you can’t see your favourite on the list, don’t be disheartened, it was a close call! There were tons of runners up that are equally as beautiful places to call in for a drink with your dog or family, like the Trafalgar Bay in York and The Coverbridge Inn in East Witton. 

Get in touch with us on social media to let us know if your favourite dog-friendly pub made the top five and whether you’re planning to brave the pubs post-lockdown or stick to drinks at home for now.