Best Dog Walks Near Catgill Farm in Yorkshire
If you’re planning a stay at Catgill Farm with your dog, you are in for a treat! Set in the heart of the Bolton Abbey Estate in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, Catgill is a perfect base for dog-friendly walks right from your glamping pod or camping pitch. Dogs are wholeheartedly welcome at Catgill, and we have three dog-friendly timber pods where they can relax and get comfortable with you during your stay.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite walks nearby. Whether you’re after a gentle stroll or a longer wander through riverside fields and woodlands, there’s something here for all dogs and owners!
Short Dog Walks
1. Bolton Abbey and the River Wharfe Walk
Distance from Catgill Farm to Bolton Abbey Village – Around 1 mile each way.
Walking time – Around 30 – 45 minutes each way.
This is the classic local walk and a brilliant choice right from Catgill Farm. Follow the footpath that leads down through fields and across the stream towards Bolton Abbey. From here you’ll be at the River Wharfe with beautiful views of the water, rolling hills, and the famous Bolton Abbey Priory. It’s a gentle walk on well-worn paths, perfect for dogs who enjoy a sniff around, a bit of pottering and maybe a quick paddle near the river. You can make this longer by exploring trails along the riverbank or heading towards the stepping stones.
This route is ideal for guests staying in The Duck, The Pheasant or The Stag glamping pods, as it’s one of the easiest to do without needing to drive anywhere. Get a lovely stretch of the legs before dinner back at Catgill.
2. Devonshire Arms Brasserie Walk
Distance from Catgill Farm to Devonshire Arms – Around 1.2 miles each way
Walking time – Around 40 – 50 minutes each way.
If you fancy a wander with a tasty stop off at the end, this is a lovely choice. From Catgill, head along the quieter lanes and footpaths toward the Devonshire Arms at Bolton Abbey. The pub sits beside the river with outdoor seating and views across the valley. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink or lunch with your dog, while taking in the scenery.
The route is a bit longer than the Bolton Abbey walk, but still gentle underfoot and perfect for keeping tails wagging.
3. Barden Bridge and River Wharfe Walk
Distance from Catgill Farm to Barden Bridge – Around 1.3 miles each way
Walking time – Around 40 to 50 minutes each way
This is a lovely short to medium walk that follows countryside paths and riverside trails towards Barden Bridge. Starting from Catgill Farm, the route takes you through open fields and along the River Wharfe, offering great views and plenty of space for dogs to explore.
Barden Bridge itself is a popular stopping point, with scenic views across the river and nearby footpaths if you want to extend the walk slightly. It’s a peaceful route that feels a bit quieter than Bolton Abbey village, making it ideal for guests who want a relaxed walk without the crowds.
This walk is easy to reach on foot from Catgill and works well for guests staying in the dog-friendly pods who want a straightforward route with classic Yorkshire Dales scenery.
4. Dalesway Paths Along the River
Distance from Catgill Farm to the Dalesway river paths – Around 1 mile to reach the main riverside path.
Walking time – Around 30 minutes to reach the path.
For those who want a stricter walk with big views and lots of fresh air, follow sections of the Dalesway footpath that runs near Catgill Farm alongside the River Wharfe. The path winds through grassy fields, woodlands, and riverside trails. Because this path is part of a longer route, you can choose how far you go. Some guests like to head towards Burnsall or Grassington for a longer walk with their dog, while others just enjoy an hour or so exploring closer to home.
This option is best if your dog loves a walk with a bit more adventure, and it’s a lovely way to see more of the Yorkshire Dales countryside.
5. Quiet Country Lanes and Fields Around Catgill
Distance from Catgill Farm – Right on your doorstep
Walking time – Anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour
One of the best things about staying at Catgill Farm is that you are surrounded by quiet country lanes and open fields. You don’t even need to leave the area to enjoy peaceful walks where it feels like you have the Yorkshire Dales all to yourselves. These routes are perfect for early morning or evening strolls before sunset, and they are especially good for dogs who enjoy wide open spaces to explore. Paths are mostly firm and easy to walk on, so you can have fun without worrying about challenging terrain.
Long Dog Walks
1. Bolton Abbey to Burnsall Riverside Walk
Distance from Catgill Farm to Burnsall village – Around 4.5 miles each way
Walking time – Around 2.5 to 3 hours each way
This is a brilliant longer walk for those who want to spend a good chunk of the day exploring. Starting from Catgill, the route follows riverside paths through the Bolton Abbey Estate and along the River Wharfe towards the village of Burnsall. The scenery changes as you go, with woodland sections, open meadows, and long stretches beside the water.
Burnsall is a lovely place to aim for, with traditional pubs, a village green, and spots to sit and rest before heading back. It’s a great option for active dogs who love distance and variety.
2. Strid Wood and Barden Bridge Circular Walk
Distance from Catgill Farm to the start of the loop – Around 1.5 miles.
Walking time – Around 3 to 4 hours
This circular walk takes you through Strid Wood, one of the most atmospheric woodland areas in the Yorkshire Dales. From Catgill, head towards Barden Bridge and follow paths that loop through woodland, riverside trails and quieter tracks.
The route includes sections of uneven ground and gentle climbs, making it ideal for dogs that enjoy a more challenging walk. The woodland sections offer shade on warmer days and there are plenty of spots to stop and take in the views.
3. Bolton Abbey to Grassington Walk
Distance from Catgill Farm to Grassington – Around 5 miles each way
Walking time – Around 3 to 3.5 hours each way
For those looking for a proper hiking style walk, this route delivers. From Catgill, follow footpaths and riverside routes through the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park towards the market town of Grassington.
The walk offers big views, wide open countryside, and a real sense of journey. Grassington makes a rewarding destination, with shops, cafés and places to rest before the return walk. This route is best suited to confident walkers and dogs used to longer distances.
4. Simon’s Seat Circular Walk
Distance from Catgill Farm to Simon’s Seat access point – Around 2 miles
Walking time – Around 4 hours
Simon’s Seat is a popular higher level walk offering panoramic views across the Dales. From Catgill, head towards the footpaths that climb gradually up onto the moorland. The walk combines woodland paths, open moor and rocky sections, with stunning views as your reward.
This is a fantastic option for guests wanting something more adventurous and scenic. It’s best tackled on a clear day and suits dogs that are comfortable with longer walks and more rugged terrain.
5. Dalesway to Appletreewick and Return
Distance from Catgill Farm to Appletreewick – Around 4 miles each way
Walking time – Around 2.5 to 3 hours each way
Following the Dalesway further than the shorter river walks, this route takes you towards the village of Appletreewick. The path winds through fields and alongside the River Wharfe, offering peaceful walking and classic Yorkshire scenery.
Appletreewick is well known for its welcoming pubs and relaxed village feel, making it a great halfway stop. This walk is ideal for those who want distance without steep climbs, and for dogs who enjoy steady walking with plenty of interesting scents along the way.
Tips for Dog Walks Around Catgill
Don’t forget to bring water and a bowl for your dog if you’re heading out for a longer walk, especially on those warmer days.
It’s typical here in the Dales to meet sheep or cattle on the fields, so make sure you’ve got a lead to hand if you come across any livestock.
After a great walk, relax with a well-deserved pizza from Cat’s Kitchen or enjoy some downtime in your pod or around a campfire!
Whether you are here for a short break or a longer stay, we have a superb base for dog-friendly adventures. With walks right from your door and options that suit all fitness levels, it’s no surprise that many guests return year after year. Lace up your boots, grab a lead, and explore some of the best dog walks Yorkshire has to offer.
