Coxwold, a civil parish in North Yorkshire nestled in the North York Moors National Park, has been identified as England's second most welcoming destination for dog owners, according to analysis by Dog Friendly Retreats. The village's pub, The Fauconberg, scored highly for its proximity to green spaces and dog-friendly amenities.
Analysis of Dog-Friendly Pubs
Dog Friendly Retreats examined 100 establishments nationwide using criteria including Google and Tripadvisor reviews, pet-welcoming facilities such as snacks and specialist canine offerings, and proximity to natural environments. The Fauconberg in Coxwold ranked second overall, partly due to its location less than a minute's walk from open terrain and being the nearest dog-accommodating venue to green surroundings.
Matthew Fox, CEO of Dog-Friendly Retreats, said: "There's no single thing that makes a pub good for dogs. Some do it through the little touches, treats, a proper menu, fresh water bowls. Others earn it through location, being right next to a park or a decent walk. What ties the best ones together is that they've thought about the dog as a guest, not just let one in. A lot of people plan their day around the walk as much as the pub, so having green space nearby genuinely adds to the whole visit."
The Fauconberg: A Traditional Yorkshire Pub
The Fauconberg offers traditional ales and food, and allows dogs inside, with water provisions noted in multiple customer testimonials. A recent Tripadvisor reviewer said: "One of a vanishing breed. This pub deserves your support as it is individually owned and run and decorated with great taste. The food is outstanding and the beer is well kept; the bedrooms are spacious and comfortable; the garden is extensive and looks out over beautiful countryside to Bylands Abbey. The staff (and the majority of customers) are welcoming and friendly... Pubs such as The Fauconberg really exhibit Britain at its best."
The pub also functions as accommodation, with eight guest rooms offering overnight stays and breakfast. It holds a Google rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
Walking Routes and Nearby Attractions
Coxwold offers several attractions for visitors. Shandy Hall is a literary house and living museum dedicated to 18th-century Anglo-Irish author Laurence Sterne. Byland Abbey, the ruins of a 12th-century monastery, lies about two miles from the village. Newburgh Priory, established in 1145, is on the village outskirts and more accessible on foot.
A 90-minute ramble called the High Leys walk provides panoramic views of the settlement, and an 8.5-mile trail runs from Byland Abbey through Oldstead.
