Beverley Westwood

Open Common and Minster Views: Beverley Westwood, East Yorkshire

Location: Beverley Westwood, Beverley, East Yorkshire, HU17 8GE (This postcode is for the general area of Beverley Westwood Common, with various access points around its perimeter.)

The Walk: Endless Space and Iconic Views (Flexible Length)

This walk offers immense flexibility, as there are no fixed routes, allowing you to create your own adventure from approximately 2 to 5+ miles, exploring the wide-open spaces and iconic features of Beverley Westwood.

1. Starting from a Parking Area: Begin your walk from one of the many parking spots around the Westwood perimeter. Head out onto the expansive open grassland.

2. Expansive Open Common: You'll immediately be struck by the sheer scale of the Westwood. The vast, open grassland is perfect for well-behaved dogs with excellent recall to enjoy some exhilarating off-lead running, playing fetch, or simply stretching their legs.

3. Encounter Livestock (CRITICAL): Beverley Westwood is managed as common land, and as such, it is home to free-roaming cattle and sheep. It is absolutely essential to keep your dog on a short lead when livestock are in sight and give them a very wide berth. This is paramount for the livestock's welfare and your dog's safety. Never let your dog worry or chase livestock.

4. Minster Views and Black Mill: As you walk, you'll be treated to stunning views. The magnificent Beverley Minster is often visible on the horizon, providing a beautiful backdrop. You can also look for the iconic Black Mill (a windmill) that stands on the common.

5. Golf Course and Ponds: A significant portion of the Westwood is home to a golf course. Be aware of golfers and flying balls and ensure your dog is kept under control when walking in these areas. The common also features a pond, where you should keep your dog on a lead to protect waterfowl and for water safety.

6. Seek Out Woodland Fringes: Along the edges of the common, there are small areas of woodland and mature trees that offer a bit of shade on a sunny day and varied scents for your dog.

7. Create Your Own Route: With a network of paths and trails, you can walk for as long or as short as you like. Simply follow the contours of the land, head towards a feature you see, and make your way back to your car.

Important Considerations for Your Walk

• LIVESTOCK (CRITICAL): ALWAYS assume cattle and sheep are present. Keep your dog on a short lead when livestock are in sight. This is the most important rule for this walk.

• OFF-LEAD RESPONSIBILITY: While off-lead is popular, it's a huge area. Ensure your dog has impeccable recall and is under your control at all times.

• GOLF COURSE: Be highly vigilant for golfers and flying balls.

• MUD: Be prepared for mud! The grassy common can get very wet.

• WATER FOR DOGS: Bring plenty of fresh water for your dog, as there are no public water facilities on the common.

• DOG WASTE: Please be a responsible dog owner and always clean up after your dog. Bins are limited to certain access points; be prepared to take all waste home with you.

• EXPOSURE: The common is very open. Be prepared for strong winds, sun, or rain.

Why Your Dog Will Love This Walk

• Vast Open Spaces: A huge amount of room to run and play (with safety in mind).

• Rich and Diverse Scents: The mix of grassland, woodland fringes, and livestock smells provides a continuous sensory feast.

• Invigorating Exercise: The undulating terrain and endless space are perfect for energetic dogs.

• Freedom to Roam: Excellent opportunities for off-lead play (with vigilance and adherence to livestock rules).

• Beautiful Scenery: Stunning views of the countryside and Beverley Minster.

Overall:

Beverley Westwood offers an outstanding, expansive, and incredibly enjoyable dog walking experience in East Yorkshire. By embracing its vast open common and rolling hills, all while being highly mindful of the free-roaming livestock, it's a fantastic destination for a memorable and invigorating outing with your four-legged companion. Just remember to be a responsible owner to ensure a wonderful time for everyone.

Image: © Copyright Jonathan Thacker and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.