Dog-friendly days out in Leeds

Best parks in Leeds to walk your dog

One of the largest city parks in Europe, Roundhay Park spans over 700 acres and provides ample space for your dog to run, play, and explore. Waterloo Lake is the largest in the park, providing a beautiful backdrop for a stroll, as well as an opportunity for your dog to cool off on a hot day. The park is also home to Tropical World, which is unfortunately not dog-friendly, so one to come back to another day. However, there are plenty of things for your dog to enjoy in Roundhay Park, including a pit stop at Lakeside Café.

Looking for a woodland walk, instead? Head over to Meanwood Park, a vast woodland on the banks of the Meanwood Beck. There is plenty of space to let your dog off the lead for a good run, as well as sports facilities like tennis courts and a large children's playground to keep the little ones happy. There's also a café to recharge your batteries before continuing your adventure.

Of course, we have to mention Temple Newsam – one of the most iconic landmarks in Leeds. Take your dog on a walk around the grounds that features a mix of woodland and parkland across 1,500 acres. The grounds also welcome cyclists and horseriders on dedicated routes, so ensure you have your pooch under control at all times to avoid any mishaps. As always, there is a café to enjoy, which welcomes dogs in the courtyard.

Dog-friendly pubs and bars in Leeds

After stretching your legs in the city’s parks, continue your day with a drink or bite to eat at one of the welcoming dog-friendly pubs in Leeds.

Aptly named, the Doghouse Bar & Bagel Shop welcomes four-legged friends and offers a place to relax during the week and let loose during the weekend with resident DJs. Whether you're looking for a coffee or a cocktail, this dog-friendly bar is a versatile space that's guaranteed to give your dog a warm welcome.

The Midnight Bell is Leeds Brewery's flagship pub and offers the perfect mix of old and new, while being dog-friendly! Enjoy the beer garden with your pooch on a sunny day or step inside to enjoy their fresh, locally sourced food. Take advantage of different deals on during the week, like Steak Night and Fizz Friday, as you soak up the atmosphere of this friendly pub.

If craft beer is your thing, we recommend stopping by the Northern Monk's Leeds Refectory. Just a 10-minute walk from Leeds station, a pint doesn’t come fresher than this… as it’s brewed just beneath your feet in the brewery on the ground floor! Located in The Old Flax Store, this dog-friendly Grade II listed mill in Holbeck offers 20 taps of fresh Northern Monk beer brewed using traditional monastic values combined with modern techniques.

Dog-friendly restaurants and cafes in Leeds

Along with its vibrant pubs and bars, there's also a great range of dog-friendly restaurants and cafes in Leeds! 

If you love board games, Chance & Counters is a great place to enjoy a round of checkers, Dungeons and Dragons and many more favourites. With over 700 to choose from, it's a given that you'll find a game you'll enjoy and the food and milkshakes are great too. Even better? It's only a 13 minute walk from Leeds train station. 

Also centrally located and family-owned, Moose Coffee is only a 5 minute walk from the station, serving up delicious breakfasts, brunches and lunches. The coffee is also sure to put a bounce in your step as you and your furry companion explore all Leeds has to offer. 

If dinner is part of your plans, then Fearns at Leeds Dock offers a wonderful atmosphere. Just 19 minutes from Leeds station, it offers great food, drink and is also close to the canal, making for a lovely walk with your four-legged friend. 

Dog-friendly places to visit in Leeds

Take a trip to Kirkstall Abbey, one of the best-preserved Cistercian monasteries in the UK, which has stood for over 800 years. It's completely free to walk about the grounds if you're a Leeds resident with a small charge for non-residents. There are events happening throughout the year for the whole family to enjoy (fur babies included) so take a look and plan your next visit.

If you're looking for a beautiful walk in the city with your dog, head to the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. The canal links two of the North's most beloved cities and stretches for 127 miles – so maybe don't try to walk it all in one day! The canal path is flat and well-maintained, making it an easy and enjoyable route for dogs and owners alike.

Following the canal to Leeds Waterfront, which has now been regenerated into a vibrant hub of culture and attractions, as well as hosting a variety of cafés and bars. We also recommend a trip to Leeds Dock with your pooch, which has a dedicated dog park and plenty of paths to explore.

Dog-friendly accommodation in Leeds

If you want to turn your day out into an overnight stay, Leeds has plenty of dog-friendly accommodation for you and your four-legged fluffy friend. 

Hotels such as The Queens Hotel, Hyatt Place Leeds and Travelodge Leeds Central offer handy city-centre locations. Roomzzz Leeds City is another option if you’re looking for an apartment-style stay with a little more space.

With a range of dog-friendly hotels in Leeds, it’s easy to make more of your visit and enjoy a proper city break together.