Travelling with your canine companion has never been easier, with more hotels and accommodations recognizing the need for dog-friendly amenities. The UK, with its vast countryside, charming villages, and stunning coastal areas, is the perfect destination for a holiday with your four-legged friend. Here are ten of the best places to stay in the UK that cater specifically to dogs and their owners, along with a nearby attraction that your dog will enjoy and a short quote from a client review.
1. The Lygon Arms, Cotswolds
Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, The Lygon Arms is a historic hotel that exudes charm and warmth. This dog-friendly hotel welcomes pets with open arms, offering comfortable dog beds, bowls, and a special pet menu.
Nearby Attraction: The surrounding Cotswold countryside is perfect for long walks, with plenty of trails and open spaces for your dog to explore. Broadway Tower is a must-visit, offering panoramic views and a great space for your dog to roam.
Client Review: “Our stay at The Lygon Arms was perfect for us and our dog. The beautiful walks and dog-friendly amenities made it a fantastic experience.” (Source: TripAdvisor)
2. The Fish Hotel, Worcestershire
Located in the picturesque Farncombe Estate, The Fish Hotel is a dog-friendly haven. The hotel provides doggy welcome packs, which include a bed, bowl, and treats. There are dedicated dog-washing areas to clean up after a muddy walk, and the hotel grounds offer ample space for your pet to run around. With dog-friendly rooms and even doggy afternoon tea, The Fish Hotel ensures your furry friend is treated like royalty.
Nearby Attraction: Take a stroll through the Farncombe Estate itself, which spans 400 acres and offers a variety of walking trails that you and your dog can enjoy together.
Client Review: “Our dog was treated like a VIP at The Fish Hotel. The welcome pack and beautiful walking trails on the estate made our stay truly special.” (Source: TripAdvisor)
3. The Milestone Hotel, London
For those looking to experience the bustling city life of London with their dog, The Milestone Hotel is the ideal choice. This luxury hotel goes above and beyond to accommodate pets, offering a pet concierge service, customized pet menus, and even pet spa treatments.
Nearby Attraction: Hyde Park, one of the largest parks in London, is just a short walk away, providing plenty of green space for your dog to enjoy. The Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park is particularly enjoyable for dogs who love to splash in the water.
Client Review: “The Milestone Hotel provided an exceptional experience for both us and our dog. The proximity to Hyde Park was perfect for daily walks.” (Source: Booking.com)
4. The Merry Harriers, Surrey
The Merry Harriers in Surrey offers a unique countryside experience with a special touch for dog owners. This charming inn not only welcomes dogs but also provides llama treks where your dog can join in the fun.
Nearby Attraction: Explore the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a haven for dog walkers with its rolling hills, woodlands, and scenic views.
Client Review: “We loved the llama trek at The Merry Harriers, and so did our dog! The inn is incredibly welcoming and the surrounding countryside is beautiful.” (Source: TripAdvisor)
5. The Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa, Yorkshire
Situated on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, The Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa is a luxurious retreat that warmly welcomes dogs. The hotel provides dog-friendly rooms with direct access to the gardens and offers dog beds, bowls, and treats.
Nearby Attraction: The Yorkshire Dales National Park offers endless walking opportunities, with trails like the Bolton Abbey Estate being particularly dog-friendly and picturesque.
Client Review: “Our stay at The Devonshire Arms was fantastic. The dog-friendly amenities and the nearby Yorkshire Dales were perfect for our active pup.” (Source: TripAdvisor)
6. Trigony House Hotel, Dumfries and Galloway
Trigony House Hotel is a delightful country house hotel in Scotland, known for its dog-friendly policies. The hotel offers dog-friendly rooms with easy access to the gardens and provides dog beds, bowls, and homemade treats.
Nearby Attraction: The nearby Drumlanrig Castle offers extensive grounds and woodlands that are perfect for a leisurely walk with your dog.
Client Review: “Trigony House Hotel made our stay so enjoyable. The homemade dog treats and the beautiful grounds were a hit with our dog.” (Source: Booking.com)
7. The Old Swan and Minster Mill, Oxfordshire
Located in the beautiful Cotswolds, The Old Swan and Minster Mill is a quintessentially English hotel that warmly welcomes dogs. The hotel provides dog-friendly rooms, each equipped with a bed, bowl, and treats for your furry friend.
Nearby Attraction: Take a scenic walk along the River Windrush, which runs through the hotel’s grounds, offering a tranquil setting for you and your dog.
Client Review: “The Old Swan and Minster Mill provided a perfect getaway for us and our dog. The walks along the River Windrush were serene and beautiful.” (Source: TripAdvisor)
8. The Cary Arms & Spa, Devon
Perched on the stunning coastline of South Devon, The Cary Arms & Spa offers a luxurious escape for dog owners. This dog-friendly hotel provides welcome packs that include a bed, bowl, and treats.
Nearby Attraction: The hotel’s location is ideal for coastal walks, with direct access to the South West Coast Path, providing spectacular sea views and plenty of fresh air.
Client Review: “Our dog loved the coastal walks and the warm welcome we received at The Cary Arms & Spa. The views were breathtaking.” (Source: TripAdvisor)
9. The Castle Hotel, Shropshire
The Castle Hotel in Bishops Castle, Shropshire, is a dog-friendly inn with a rich history and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel offers dog-friendly rooms with all the necessary amenities, including beds, bowls, and treats.
Nearby Attraction: The Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers numerous trails and open spaces, perfect for exploring with your dog. The Long Mynd is a particularly popular spot for its stunning views and diverse walking routes.
Client Review: “The Castle Hotel was charming and perfect for our dog. The Shropshire Hills provided beautiful walking routes.” (Source: Booking.com)
10. The Bell Inn, New Forest
Located in the heart of the New Forest, The Bell Inn is a charming, dog-friendly hotel that offers a warm welcome to pets. The hotel provides dog-friendly rooms with beds, bowls, and treats.
Nearby Attraction: The New Forest is a paradise for dogs, with miles of woodland trails, open heathlands, and picturesque villages to explore. A visit to Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary offers a great opportunity for a walk and to see deer in their natural habitat.
Client Review: “The Bell Inn’s location in the New Forest was ideal for our dog. The woodland trails and dog-friendly amenities made it a fantastic stay.” (Source: TripAdvisor)
Tips for Travelling with Your Dog
When planning a trip with your dog, it’s important to consider a few key factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your pet:
- Check Pet Policies: Always check the pet policies of the accommodation before booking. Some places may have restrictions on the size or breed of dogs allowed.
- Pack Essentials: Bring all the essentials for your dog, including food, water, bowls, a bed, toys, and any necessary medications. Having familiar items can help your dog feel more comfortable in a new environment.
- Plan Activities: Research dog-friendly activities and attractions in the area you are visiting. Many national parks, beaches, and historical sites in the UK welcome dogs.
- Keep Your Dog Safe: Make sure your dog is microchipped and has an up-to-date ID tag with your contact information. It’s also a good idea to carry a recent photo of your dog in case they get lost.
- Respect Local Rules: Always follow local rules and regulations regarding dogs, such as leash laws and designated dog-friendly areas. Be mindful of other visitors and wildlife.
- Hydrate and Rest: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times and take regular breaks during long walks or drives to prevent them from becoming tired or stressed.
Conclusion
Travelling with your dog in the UK is a rewarding experience, with many accommodations and destinations welcoming pets with open arms. Whether you prefer the countryside, coast, or city, there are plenty of dog-friendly places to stay that offer comfort and convenience for both you and your furry friend. From luxury hotels to charming inns, these top 10 dog-friendly accommodations ensure that your next holiday with your pet will be unforgettable. So pack your bags, grab the leash, and embark on a new adventure with your loyal companion by your side.
Photo by Rafaëlla Waasdorp on Unsplash
