The UK is full of beautiful dog friendly destinations where you can enjoy a proper getaway without leaving your four legged friend at home.
From sandy beaches and dramatic coastlines to countryside walks, pretty villages and dog-friendly hotels, there are plenty of places to explore together. But some destinations are particularly well suited to a dog-friendly holiday, offering plenty of places to walk, eat, stay and explore with your pup.
Here at Honey the Dog, I’m exploring the best dog friendly destinations around the UK and sharing the places I’ve discovered along the way, from dog friendly hotels and holiday accommodation to walks and things to do.
So whether you’re looking for a coastal escape, a countryside break or somewhere new to explore with your dog, here’s my guide to some of the best dog friendly destinations in the UK.
The best dog-friendly destinations in the UK
Cornwall
Cornwall is a fantastic choice for a dog friendly holiday, particularly if you and your dog love being outdoors. With miles of coastline, beautiful beaches, coastal paths and plenty of dog friendly places to stay, there’s lots to explore.
Many Cornish beaches have seasonal dog restrictions, so it’s always worth checking the rules before you visit. Outside of the busiest summer months, however, there are plenty of beaches where dogs can enjoy a run on the sand and a paddle in the sea.
Cornwall is also home to some lovely dog-friendly towns and villages, making it easy to combine walks and exploring with a relaxed lunch or pub stop. I’ve enjoyed lovely holidays in Looe, St Ives & Falmouth.
Explore Cornwall with your dog:
If you’re looking for a dog-friendly destination with plenty of variety, Cornwall is a great place to start.
The Lake District
For dogs who love a good walk, it’s hard to beat the Lake District.
With mountains, lakes, forests and miles of countryside to explore, the Lake District offers plenty of opportunities for adventurous dogs and their owners. You can spend your days exploring walking trails before returning to a cosy dog friendly pub or accommodation.
There are also plenty of dog friendly places to stay, from traditional inns and hotels to holiday cottages and lodge retreats.
One of the things I love about the Lake District is that you can make your trip as adventurous or relaxed as you like. You don’t necessarily have to tackle a huge mountain every day — there are plenty of gentler walks and beautiful places to explore too.
Explore the Lake District with your dog:
The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds are another lovely option for a dog-friendly UK break, particularly if you’re looking for pretty villages, countryside walks and a slower pace of life.
There are miles of footpaths through rolling countryside, along with charming villages, country pubs and plenty of dog-friendly accommodation.
It’s also a particularly good destination for a shorter break. If you don’t want to spend a whole week away, a couple of nights exploring the Cotswolds with your dog can make a lovely weekend escape.
Explore the Cotswolds with your dog:
- 5 Luxury Dog Friendly Hotels in the Cotswolds for the Perfect Getaway
- Discover Feldon Valley Lodges: Luxury Cotswolds Dog Friendly Hotel
Yorkshire
Yorkshire has an enormous amount to offer dog owners, from the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors to the Yorkshire coast.
If your dog loves walking, there are countless trails and open spaces to explore. Alternatively, head towards the coast for seaside towns, beaches and coastal walks. Whitby is a personal favourite of mine!
Yorkshire is also a great option if you want a destination where you can mix different types of days. You could spend one day hiking in the countryside, another exploring a town and another walking along the coast.
Explore Yorkshire with your dog:
The Scottish Highlands
If you and your dog love dramatic scenery and big adventures, the Scottish Highlands are a wonderful destination for a dog friendly holiday. The area around Loch Ness and Inverness is particularly beautiful, with mountains, forests, lochs and miles of countryside to explore together.
There are plenty of opportunities for scenic walks, from peaceful woodland trails to more challenging Highland hikes, and the area is a great choice if you want to escape somewhere that feels truly wild and away from the everyday. Inverness also makes a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area, with a range of dog-friendly places to stay and plenty of countryside right on the doorstep.
Explore the Scottish Highlands with your dog:
Whether you’re exploring the shores of Loch Ness, wandering through Highland forests, taking a distillery tour or simply enjoying the spectacular scenery together, the Scottish Highlands are a great option for an adventurous dog-friendly getaway.
Rutland
Rutland may be one of England’s smallest counties, but it’s a lovely destination for a dog-friendly break. With rolling countryside, pretty villages, country pubs and plenty of walking opportunities, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a quieter getaway with your dog.
Rutland Water is a particular highlight, with miles of trails and beautiful scenery around the reservoir. There are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore with your dog, making Rutland a good option for dogs who enjoy long walks and being outdoors. The surrounding villages also offer plenty of places to stop for a drink or something to eat after a day of exploring.
Rutland can also work well for a shorter break or weekend away, particularly if you’re looking for somewhere peaceful without travelling too far.
Explore Rutland with your dog:
The Peak District
The Peak District is a brilliant destination for a dog-friendly holiday, particularly if you and your dog love walking and exploring the countryside. With dramatic landscapes, rolling hills, reservoirs, woodland and miles of walking trails, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the great outdoors together.
The region is also home to picturesque villages, cosy country pubs and plenty of dog-friendly places to stay, making it easy to combine long walks with a relaxing break. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a gentler stroll through the countryside, the Peak District has something to suit most dogs and their owners.
Explore the Peak District with your dog:
Mid Wales
Mid Wales is a wonderful choice for a peaceful dog-friendly holiday, with wide-open countryside, rolling hills, forests and plenty of space for dogs to explore. It’s a particularly good option if you want to escape the busier tourist destinations and spend your time walking, relaxing and enjoying the scenery together.
The Brecon Beacons and surrounding countryside offer plenty of opportunities for scenic walks, while the area’s small towns and villages provide dog-friendly pubs and places to stop for refreshments. There are also plenty of secluded holiday cottages, lodges and rural stays where you and your dog can enjoy a quieter break surrounded by nature.
We’ve had some lovely stays in Mid Wales exploring Llangollen, Hafren Forest, Powys Castle, and other great attractions with our dog.
Whether you’re looking for long countryside walks, a peaceful rural retreat or somewhere to properly switch off with your dog, Mid Wales is a great destination to consider.
How to choose a dog friendly destination UK
The best destination for your dog will depend on what you both enjoy doing.
For beach loving dogs
If your dog could happily spend all day running along a beach and splashing in the sea, look towards coastal destinations such as Cornwall and Devon.
Just remember to check local beach restrictions before you travel, as some beaches don’t allow dogs during the summer months.
For dogs who love walking
The Lake District and Yorkshire are fantastic choices for dogs who love exploring the countryside.
Look for accommodation close to walking routes so you can head straight out for an adventure without having to drive everywhere.
For a relaxing countryside break
The Cotswolds are ideal if you’re looking for a slower-paced getaway, with pretty villages, gentle countryside walks and plenty of dog-friendly pubs and accommodation.
For a mixture of everything
Some destinations make it particularly easy to mix different types of days. Yorkshire and Scotland both offer a fantastic combination of countryside, coast, walks, towns and dog-friendly places to eat and stay.
What makes a destination genuinely dog friendly?
When choosing somewhere for a holiday with your dog, it’s worth looking beyond whether a hotel simply says that it is “dog friendly”.
A genuinely dog-friendly destination should give you plenty of options once you’re there. Before booking, research and read reviews. Consider:
- Walking opportunities: Can you easily find good walks from your accommodation?
- Beaches and outdoor spaces: Are there places where your dog can run and explore?
- Dog friendly pubs and restaurants: Are there options nearby? You don’t want to spend your whole holiday eating outside!
- Things to do: Are there attractions and activities where your dog can join you?
- Seasonal restrictions: Are there restrictions on beaches, walking routes or attractions at the time you’re visiting?
- Travel time: How long will your dog be comfortable travelling?
It’s also worth checking the individual rules for every place you plan to visit.
More dog friendly holiday inspiration
Once you’ve chosen your destination, the next step is finding somewhere great to stay.
I’ve been visiting and researching dog friendly hotels, lodges and other accommodation around the UK, so you can find somewhere that works for both you and your dog.
Some of my dog-friendly hotel and accommodation guides include:
- Dog Friendly Holidays UK: A Guide for Staycations with Your Dog
- Dog Friendly Spa Hotels: Relaxing UK Spa Breaks to Enjoy with Your Dog
- Dog Friendly Lodge Holidays: Everything You Need to Know Before You Book
- How to find the best dog friendly days out!
- Discovering the top dog friendly hotels in the UK
I’ll continue adding new destinations and places to stay as I explore more of the UK with Honey.
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