Chris's Rustic Dog Exercise Area

Just outside Leeds, Chris's Rustic Dog Exercise Area is exactly what it says on the tin - a proper no-frills spot where dogs can burn off energy without you needing to worry about traffic or other hazards. It's the kind of place that won't win beauty contests, but if you're staying at nearby Maustin Park with a dog in tow, it's genuinely useful.

The setup is basic: open ground, fenced off, room to run. Dogs get to do what dogs do best - tear about like maniacs while their owners stand around comparing notes on kibble brands. It's functional rather than fancy, which is fine. Some visitors might expect manicured gardens or scenic backdrops, but that's not what this is about.

You'll want to allow thirty minutes to an hour depending on your dog's stamina and how much you fancy a wander yourself. There's no fee mentioned, which is a bonus. Go on a weekday morning if possible - weekends get busier and the ground turns into a mud bath faster than you'd think.

For families with energetic dogs using Maustin Park as their base, it saves the bother of lengthy drives to dog-friendly attractions. You won't be gawping at views or taking Instagram shots, but your pooch will sleep well afterward. That's the whole point, really.