Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden is one of those near-Ripon days out that feels almost absurdly good with a dog in tow. This UNESCO-listed National Trust site combines the dramatic abbey ruins with the beautiful water garden and huge outdoor spaces, so it gives dog owners loads of room to wander without the day feeling repetitive.

Dogs are welcome in all outdoor spaces and at signposted tables in the visitor centre restaurant, though they need to stay on a short lead throughout, which makes it a brilliant option for a full adventure rather than a quick stop. The site is open year-round, closed Fridays November to January, with free parking at the visitor centre. For visitors near Ripon, it is one of the strongest dog-friendly attractions around.

Scenic, spacious and built for the kind of outing that ends with everyone pleasantly exhausted.