Five of the best dog-friendly hotel stays in the UK
Being a dog owner is incredibly rewarding. That waggy tail when they see you. Snuggles on the sofa. And fresh air when you’re out on adventures together.
Yes, it’s great to get out and about in your local area with your dog, but nothing beats travelling further afield and enjoying wide-open countryside or woodland walks with your furry friend. It’s good for the body, mind, and soul.
Here are some of our favourite places in the UK to explore with your dog, plus a selection of our dog-friendly hotels in these lovely spots.
Five of the UK’s best dog-friendly destinations
These are five of the top dog-friendly destinations in the UK. We’ve detailed what’s so great about each, and given you an option for the best dog-friendly pubs and hotels close by.1. Peak District
Established in 1951, the Peak District is officially the UK’s first national park. It’s a popular dog-walking destination, with dogs welcomed in most areas of the countryside. Top locations for dog walking in the Peak District include Mam Tor, Derwent Reservoir, and Monsal Dale.
Where to stay in the Peak District
The Castle, Bakewell
One of our favourite dog-friendly hotels in the Peak District, The Castle, stands proud in Bakewell. This 16th-century inn nestled in the heart of the beautiful Peak District on the banks of the River Wye is dog-friendly and the ideal place to stay with your four-legged friend.
You can take a stroll into the countryside or head out to visit local attractions including Chatsworth House and Garden, the Heights of Abraham, and Crich Tramway Village. Then tuck into some traditional food and drink when you get back.
2. Loch Lomond
Scotland’s Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is a wonderful location to explore the countryside with your dog by your side. There are plenty of popular walks in this stunning part of the world and you can even hop on the West Highland Way.
There are beautiful vistas to discover all around, and your dog will love it too. Just remember to keep them on the lead near livestock and always pick up after them.
Where to stay in Loch Lomond
The Waverley Hotel, Callander
With a backdrop of the Trossachs National Park and a stunning riverside location, The Waverley Hotel is a great spot to bed down for the night – or indeed a few nights. Majestic mountains, glassy lochs and tinkling waterfalls are all around, so there’s plenty to explore.
Or you can stroll around Callander with your pet for a quieter afternoon, before heading back to this welcoming dog-friendly hotel in Loch Lomond.
3. Dorset
What a county Dorset is for dog walking. Home to the iconic Jurassic Coast, Dorset boasts some of the most spectacular coastlines in the UK. And what better way to experience it than with your furry friend alongside you?
Popular dog walks in Dorset include Lulworth Cove, Studland Beach, Thorncombe Woods, the North Dorset Trailway, and Corfe Castle, to name a few.
Where to stay in Dorset
The Spyglass & Kettle, Southbourne
With a lofty position overlooking Southbourne Beach, The Spyglass & Kettle has views to die for and a readymade spot to walk your dog on the sand. This dog-friendly hotel in Dorset is cosy, comfy, and close to some of the county's best beaches.
You can walk along the Jurassic Coast or pop into Bournemouth for strolls around the city. Or simply enjoy the beach nearby and let your dog burn off some energy before retiring to the pub for some delicious pub food.
4. Devon
Devon is one of the most beautiful counties in the UK. Its stunning coast, sandy beaches, fossil cliffs, moorland national parks and medieval towns are all waiting to be explored by you and your dog.
Some of the most popular dog walks in Devon include the Tarka Trail, Waterhead Creek, Haldon Forest Park, Stover Country Park, and the Grand Western Canal.
Where to stay in Devon
The Cedars Inn, Sticklepath
If you’re looking for a dog-friendly hotel in Devon then don’t miss The Cedars Inn. This striking country house hotel is set among three acres of beautiful gardens and well placed on the edge of Barnstaple.
The town itself is just a short stroll away with a selection of cafes, shops and sites to discover. Plus, the beautiful Saunton Sands beach is close by – head here to enjoy a windswept walk with your dog.
5. The Cotswolds
It doesn’t get more quintessentially British than the Cotswolds. Full of stunning countryside, quaint stone homes and charming villages and towns, it’s so much fun to visit with your dog.
Some famous dog walks in the Cotswolds include the Blenheim Palace perimeter walk, a stroll around Bourton-on-the-Water, Westonbirt Arboretum, and Castle Combe.
Where to stay in the Cotswolds
The Royal George Hotel, Birdlip
One of the top dog-friendly hotels in the Cotswolds, the views from The Royal George Hotel are truly spectacular. This 18th-century inn is the perfect base to explore the charming village of Birdlip and to head out into the breathtaking Cotswolds countryside.
And when you’re done? Savour a hearty meal in our onsite pub and relax in your room with your furry friend.