Route diagram, drawn from the recorded track — for the shape of the walk, not for navigation. Carry OS Explorer on the hill.
Five flat miles of towpath from Skipton to Gargrave along the lock-free summit level of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, about two hours each way, on a firm surfaced path that stays walkable when the fells are under water. Start at Skipton canal basin off Coach Street and finish at Gargrave, where the hourly 580 bus and the Leeds-Morecambe train will both get you back to Skipton so you need not walk it twice. There is not a single stile on the whole route and no livestock on the towpath, which makes it the obvious choice for a big dog or an old one, but keep leads on: the water is deep with steep stone edging, cyclists come through fast, and moored boats have their own dogs aboard.
One of the best-preserved medieval castles in England, over 900 years old and fully roofed, at the top of Skipton High Street. Well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome throughout the castle and grounds, excluding only the tea room and shop. Combine with the adjoining Castle Woods for a full dog-friendly outing.
Ancient woodland gorge tucked behind Skipton Castle, managed by the Woodland Trust, with over two miles of paths, bridges and steps along Eller Beck where kingfishers and dippers hunt. Dogs on a lead are welcome at all times to protect plants and wildlife, and dog bins are provided at The Bailey entrance and Mill Bridge. Free to enter, minutes from the High Street.
A repeatedly award-winning micropub on Albert Street near the canal and the station, with six cask ales, six craft kegs and no music or televisions. Among the most genuinely dog-minded rooms in Skipton: jars of free dog bar snacks to dip into, water bowls everywhere and bottled dog beer for sale. Well-behaved dogs only.
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