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Yorkshire And The Humber
North Yorkshire
Harrogate

Blubberhouses

The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Blubberhouses

4.5

(3009)

25,515

hikers

103

hikes

Dog friendly hiking trails around Blubberhouses are set within the picturesque Washburn Valley in North Yorkshire, offering a variety of terrain for outdoor activities. The region is characterized by expansive moorland, serene reservoirs like Fewston, Swinsty, and Thruscross, and peaceful riverside woodlands along the River Washburn. These diverse landscapes provide a range of hiking experiences, from gentle waterside strolls to more challenging moorland treks.

Best dog friendly hiking trails around Blubberhouses

  • The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Swinsty…

Last updated: July 7, 2026

4.7

(3)

27

hikers

#1.

Swinsty Reservoir – Dob Park Bridge loop from Blubberhouses

16.7km

04:23

150m

150m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

YorkshireLondoner
November 6, 2025, Swinsty Hall

this old hall is Gareth Southgate's private home

1

0

Fabulous scenic spot for a break, however, there are only 3 or 4 tables that I could see, so being next to Fewston car park I imagine they would fill up quickly (my photos take at around 7am). There are also numerous benches along the track around the eastern side of the reservoir.

1

0

Cracking location from which to explore. Reasonably well-sized car park (about 25 spaces) immediately accessible from the A59. Head south to walk around Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs along very easy and well-maintained tracks, or even better, head north up the River Washburn for a serene woodland walk along the babbling river's edge, to eventually pop out at the very imposing face of Thruscross Reservoir dam. If this car park is full, then try Swinsty Moor Plantation or Fewston village if heading south, or try the bigger car park at Thruscross Reservoir if heading north.

1

0

Cracking location from which to explore. Reasonably well-sized car park at Blubberhouses. Head south to walk around Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs along very easy and well-maintained tracks, or even better, head north up the River Washburn for a serene woodland walk along the babbling river's edge, to eventually pop out at the very imposing face of Thruscross Reservoir dam.

0

0

Delightful walk along the River Washburn between Thruscross Reservoir and Blubberhouses. Easy track to follow along the river's edge, in parts it is a wide gravel track with very easy going, although it does eventually become more of a rabbit-path, narrow in places and riddled with tree routes.

1

0

Fair sized and well-maintained car park with space for at least 30-40+ vehicles. Few picnic tables at the south-eastern end of the car park. There is also space for a few cars if you park off-road next to Thruscross Reservoir Lodge, on Reservoir Road on the eastern side of the dam, but these spots tend to fill up quickly.

1

0

RichD
June 1, 2025, Thruscross Dam

If you are enthusiastic enough to walk around all three reservoirs (Thruscross, Fewston, and Swinsty), clocking in at 15 miles, then you will see that Thruscross has the most spectacular dam of the three. If you follow the track from the car park at the western end of the dam, to the south towards the River Washburn, a track that descends quite steeply, then you will be rewarded with imposing views of the face of the dam.

1

0

Small bridge at the southern end of the dam allows you to peer over and see the overflow for Fewston Reservoir and the sloping masonry weirs that channel overflow down into Swinsty Reservoir. Great views of both reservoirs northwest to Fewston and southeast to Swinsty.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available around Blubberhouses?

There are over 100 dog-friendly hiking trails around Blubberhouses, offering a wide variety of options for you and your canine companion. These routes range from easy strolls around reservoirs to more challenging moorland treks.

Are there easy dog-friendly walks suitable for all fitness levels in Blubberhouses?

Yes, Blubberhouses offers many easy dog-friendly walks, particularly around the reservoirs. Trails like the View of Fewston Reservoir – Farmhouse Ice Cream Van loop provide well-surfaced paths that are suitable for a relaxed outing with your dog. The Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs are known for their accessible, gentle routes.

Can I find circular dog walks in the Blubberhouses area?

Absolutely. Many of the dog-friendly routes in Blubberhouses are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Popular options include loops around the various reservoirs, such as the Swinsty Reservoir – Dob Park Bridge loop or the Thruscross Dam – Thruscross Reservoir loop, which offer diverse scenery.

What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes around Blubberhouses?

The terrain around Blubberhouses is quite varied. You'll find well-surfaced paths around the reservoirs, such as Fewston and Swinsty, which are ideal for dogs. Other routes venture into riverside woodlands along the River Washburn, and more challenging hikes will take you across open, heather-clad moorland like Blubberhouses Moor, which can be boggy in places.

Are there any challenging dog-friendly hikes for experienced walkers and their dogs?

For those seeking a more challenging experience, Blubberhouses offers longer routes that incorporate moorland and significant elevation changes. The Thruscross Dam – Thruscross Reservoir loop, for instance, provides a moderate challenge with varied terrain and impressive views of the dam. Longer routes often combine reservoir paths with sections across Blubberhouses Moor.

What natural landmarks or viewpoints can I see on dog-friendly trails?

Many dog-friendly trails offer stunning natural landmarks and viewpoints. You can enjoy panoramic views of the Washburn Valley and its reservoirs, such as Fewston Reservoir Circular Path and Thruscross Reservoir. Further afield, but accessible from the area, are impressive gritstone outcrops like Simon's Seat and the Cow and Calf Rocks, offering expansive vistas.

Are there any historical points of interest along the dog-friendly routes?

Yes, the area is rich in history. Around Thruscross Reservoir, you can find the ruins of the drowned village of West End, which was submerged during the reservoir's construction. Blubberhouses Moor also features remnants of ancient field systems and stone boundary walls, hinting at the region's past.

What is the best time of year to go hiking with my dog in Blubberhouses?

Blubberhouses is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant foliage, especially in the riverside woodlands. Summer is great for longer days, but remember to bring water for your dog. Winter walks can be crisp and clear, but some moorland paths might be boggy or icy, so appropriate gear is essential.

Are there any dog-friendly pubs or cafes near the trails in Blubberhouses?

While specific establishments are not listed in the route data, the Blubberhouses area, being a popular hiking destination, typically has dog-friendly pubs and cafes in nearby villages where you can refresh after your walk. It's always a good idea to check with individual venues beforehand.

What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Blubberhouses?

The dog-friendly trails around Blubberhouses are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained paths around the reservoirs, and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a fantastic destination for walks with dogs.

Are there any less crowded dog-friendly trails in Blubberhouses?

While the reservoir loops can be popular, especially on weekends, exploring the routes that venture onto Blubberhouses Moor or along less-frequented sections of the River Washburn can offer a quieter experience. The River Washburn loop, for example, provides a peaceful woodland and riverside walk.

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