Last Saturday we walked the dogs at Fountains Abbey. It was the quietest I’ve ever seen it, and the most perfect spring day. Although we tend to go to places where we can let the dogs off lead (they have to be on here), I think they were actually the most tired they’ve been for quite a while afterwards with so many new sights and smells to take in. On busy days there will be a LOT of other dogs, so if you can, go early - it’ll also help you with a parking spot.

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal - are they worth a visit?

Fountains Abbey sits just outside Ripon, and it’s one of those places that feels like you’ve accidentally wandered into Pride & Prejudice. It’s a full-day wander if you take it slowly and take in the views, and the views are gorgeous. Highlights include:

Dramatic abbey ruins
The landscaped Studley Royal Water Garden
Woodland, river walks, and open parkland, and
A deer park

How dog friendly is it?

Fountains Abbey is a great day out, but rules apply. If your dog is not great in what can be busy public places, or they struggle being kept on lead for long stretches of time with no opportunity for off-lead runs, then it might not be your first choice. We found it to be a lovely leg stretch - we took it fairly slowly, letting the dogs sniff and exploring the ruins to give them extra enrichment. Before you go it might be useful to know:

Dogs are welcome but must be on a lead at all times. This is mainly due to:
- Livestock
- Wildlife (especially deer)
- Narrow paths and busy foot traffic
Even in the big open areas, it’s still lead-only, so if you’re hoping for an off-lead sprint session, this isn’t the place.

Facilities:

Water bowls were available outside both cafes
There are dog bins across the estate. You must use these bins for your poo bags.
We didn’t need it, but there is plenty of shaded woodland for warmer days
Well signposted, clear pathways which take you round a circular walk.
Designated car parking (but the car parks do get very full).

National Trust Membership

Fountains Abbey is run by the National Trust, so entry isn’t free. We have a joint gift membership so we were covered, but without membership it’spay per visit. With membership you’ll get free entry and parking (and access to lots of similar places across the UK). Currently it’s £21.00 per adult.