Make the most of Twixtmas: the Best West Yorkshire Pubs for Dog Walkers
Twixtmas. Betwixtmas. Crimbo Limbo. The Christmas Comedown. The Festive Fog. Whatever you call it, the days between Christmas and New Year can feel like an odd period. For some, we’re out of our routines. Disorientated by living off leftovers, and trying to find a place for the extra bits and bobs we acquired on the big day. Maybe dealing with a sagging tree…plus, the short days can make it feel like no sooner are you up and about than its time to get back in your pjs!
If you’re tired of sitting in front of the telly and fancy some fresh air in your gills, then here’s a list of dog walks we love, each with a nearby pub where you’re welcome to take your four-legged pal. They’re not in any particular order, but are tried-and-tested. So if you’re feeling like a festive flump, pull your boots on, grab the lead, wrap up warm and head out to get the blood pumping again. Your dog will love you for it.
Otley Chevin & The Royalty Pub, Otley
Both Chevin Park and Surprise View are well-known beauty spots for good reason. Chevin Forest Park has great walking trails and is popular with dog walkers from Leeds, Bradford and Ilkley alike and Surprise View’s rock platforms bring stunning views all the way across to Simon’s seat.
I’ve been visiting The Royalty since I was a nipper. Despite being closed for a number of years, now it’s back on the map and thriving, it’s a popular destination for dog owners. And as an added bonus, it’s the perfect spot to watch aeroplanes coming in and out of Leeds Bradford airport (perfect for young plane spotters).
Find out more about Otley Chevin Parks (Directions)
The Canal at Saltaire & The Boat House
The stretch from Apperley Bridge to Bingley goes through the Unesco village of Saltaire and is a regular leg stretch of ours. There are a number of good pubs along the route but The Boathouse sits alongside it and so is super easy to get to. If you want to walk up into the village itself from here, Salt Beer Factory is also really dog friendly and has a great range of real ales, as does the infamous Fanny’s Ale House.
You’re spoiled for choice in this neck of the woods, and if you’re lucky you might spot a Kingfisher or Heron along the waterside too.
Ogden Water Reservoir and The Causeway Foot Inn, Halifax
We lived in Halifax for a few years and this combo was one we went back to again and again. The walk is a popular circular (but can get really muddy, so put your wellies on) that’s really easy to navigate, and you can make it longer or shorter depending on how far you stray from the main path into the woods. Parking does get busy at peak times, so earlier and later make for a smoother visit.
At the end of the road to Ogden is The Causeway Foot Inn. It might not look like much from the outside, but the food in there is all home cooked, absolutely gorgeous and arrives nuclear hot!! There’s a separate conservatory on the back specifically for dogs and muddy boots.
Read my previous blog about Ogden
See more about the Causeway Foot Inn
Pugney’s Country Park and The Swan & Cygnet, Wakefield
I blogged about Pugney’s recently. It’s a family and dog friendly country park off Denby Dale Road in Wakefield with flat, easy access footpaths and good facilities, including a cafe. Perfect for an hour or two outdoors with a good leg stretch, then maybe rounded off with a drink or two and something to eat at the nearby Swan & Cygnet Pub.
