Ruthin, nestled in the heart of the Vale of Clwyd, is a charming Welsh market town, and a perfect base for exploring the surrounding countryside with your four-legged friend. More importantly, it’s a town that understands the vital connection between a good walk and a good pub. Because, let’s face it, what’s the point of a bracing ramble if there’s no roaring fire and pint of local ale waiting at the end?   

So, let’s talk walks, and more importantly, pubs. The area around Ruthin offers a delightful mix of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and picturesque villages, all begging to be explored. And, crucially, many of these walks conveniently lead to or from a proper, dog-friendly pub.   

One of my favourite combinations involves a stroll up to Moel Famau, the iconic hill that dominates the Clwydian Range. Now, you can start the walk from the car park at the base, but for a slightly longer, and more rewarding, route, begin in the charming village of Llanferres. It’s a bit of a climb, naturally, but the views from the summit are simply breathtaking. And after you’ve descended, and your dog has exhausted itself  head to The Druid Inn. This traditional pub, located in Llanferres itself, is wonderfully dog-friendly, with a warm welcome, hearty food, and a fine selection of local ales. The perfect reward for a hard day’s hiking.   

Another excellent option is a walk along the River Clwyd. Start at The Drovers in Rhewl then cross the road and follow the river path up Lady Baggots Drive. A beautiful woodland walk is ideal for dogs with plenty of opportunities for your furry friend to have a paddle circular back to The Drovers a classic country pub 

If you fancy a walk with a bit of history, try exploring the area around Castell Dinas Bran, the ruins of a medieval castle perched on a hilltop overlooking Llangollen. While Llangollen itself is a short drive from Ruthin, it’s well worth the trip. The climb up to the castle is steep, but the views are spectacular. And after you’ve explored the ruins, head down into Llangollen and find The Corn Mill, a riverside pub with a large outdoor terrace and a warm welcome for dogs. It's a great spot to relax and watch the River and the Canoes and Kayaks!

Finally, for a gentler ramble, explore the area around Llyn Brenig, a large reservoir located a short drive from Ruthin. There are numerous paths that circle the lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. And after your walk, head to the Brenig Visitor Centre, which has a café that welcomes dogs.  

 The Golden Lion is a stones through from Great Alder House and is a must to be incorporated on every walk out of the house. Take one of the signposted public paths up the hill then loop around past the church St Cygnfals and down to the " Goldie". Lots of options to get up to the mountain on public paths.

 A few suggestions for the best dog walks with a pub near Ruthin. Remember to pack plenty of water for both you and your dog, and always keep your furry friend on a lead when near livestock. And most importantly, enjoy the beautiful scenery and the warm Welsh hospitality.