Dogs are an important part of the family – in fact, recent research has noted that this may be the reason why parents get the names of the family dog mixed up with those of their children – and we want them to be a part of our lives, such as when we head away for a break.
This guide written by Bethany Taylor reveals the top five locations that you might like to visit and take your dog along.
Cornwall
The stunning coastal region is home to a huge number of dog friendly locations including cottages and apartments where your pooch can lay their head as well as plenty of pubs, hotels and beaches to take your furry friend along to.
Sandymouth beach is a favourite among dog owners while for those in Truro visit Kazbah restaurant, which offers great food and service for your pet too. If you’re heading to Newquay be sure to drop into the Lusty Glaze restaurant where you can get a three-course menu for yourself and for the dog, too.
Shrewsbury
For those who love to explore military history sites, this market town in Shropshire is worth a visit and has plenty of dog-friendly hotels and attractions too. Take a walk around Haughmond Abbey or plan a visit to The Quarry, where you wander by the river and explore the stunning gardens with your dog on the lead.
The town’s folk festival which takes place in August each year is also very welcoming to dogs and kids and worth a visit if you’re planning a late summer trip.
Lake District
If you and your dog love to spend time outdoors, hiking and exploring new places, a trip to the dog-friendly Lake District is a must. You can spend the day discovering the beauty of the rolling hills and open water in the area before settling down for a well-earned meal and drink at one of the many dog friendly pubs. The Drunken Duck Inn and The Golden Rule in Ambleside, as well as Tower Bank Arms in Sawrey and Kings Arms in Hawkshead are all very welcoming when it comes to your furry friend.
Rachael from Nutriment agreed: “We often take our dog up to the Lake District, the sights are beautiful and it offers the perfect walks.”
Cotswolds
With rolling hills and plenty of open countryside to revel in, the Cotswolds is the perfect destination for those who want to take their pup along for the trip too. Plan a visit to Broadway Tower, which provides stunning views over 16 counties.
Your dog is welcome to enjoy the view too, although he or she might prefer to stop by Morris & Brown cafe for tea and cake (plus treats for the furry one). When it comes to finding something substantial to eat for dinner, The Fuzzy Duck in Armscote welcomes dogs in the bar area or garden and offers a selection of treats for them to enjoy too while you eat, including pigs ears and dog biscuits.
London
You probably wouldn’t have thought the capital would be very accommodating for dogs but there are a fair few hotels that can put up your pet and plenty of parks and green for them to run around in. The accommodation available for pooches is rather swanky with only the top end London hotels really offering dog friendly rooms.
Stay in The Montague on the Gardens and receive a special welcome hamper for your dog, or opt for South Place Hotel, which provides jogging and walking maps ideal for your morning outing with your pooch. If you’re exploring Covent Garden on your visit head to Shake Shack where you can pick up dog friendly shakes such as the Pooch-ini which is made up of vanilla custard with peanut butter sauce and red velvet doggy biscuits.
The Society Club and L’Escargot in Soho are both dog friendly when you fancy a bite to eat while Egerton House in Knightsbridge offers an afternoon tea that can accommodate your furry friend as well.
Scotland
Of course, Scotland is also a great place to visit with your dog, especially with so many areas to roam, so long as you act responsibly and do not let dogs off the lead near livestock. The Land Reform Act 2003 allows people and dogs an incredible freedom. You’ll find many hotels, B&Bs, cottages, pubs, restaurants and cafes allow dogs. Just look out for the dogs welcome badge.