Dog-Friendly Travel in the UK: Best Staycations for You and Your Pup

One of the best things about living in the UK is how dog-friendly it’s becoming. From cosy country cottages to seaside hotels, more places than ever welcome four-legged companions. With the rise of staycations, British pet owners no longer need to leave their dogs behind when travelling. Here’s your guide to some of the best dog-friendly destinations across the UK in 2025.

The Lake District: A Walker’s Paradise

The Lake District is a dream come true for adventurous dogs and their humans. Miles of hiking trails, open fields, and pet-friendly pubs make it one of the top UK destinations.

🐾 Highlights:

Dog-friendly boat trips on Lake Windermere.
Walks around Derwentwater, perfect for energetic pups.
Dozens of pubs (like the Drunken Duck Inn) where muddy paws are welcome.

💡 Tip: Always keep dogs on a lead near livestock and wildlife.

Cornwall: Sandy Paws and Sea Breezes

Cornwall’s stunning beaches are a dog’s idea of heaven. From Perranporth Beach to Watergate Bay, many coastal stretches allow dogs year-round, though some have seasonal restrictions.

🐕 Best Spots:

Bedruthan Steps – breathtaking cliff walks.
St Ives – charming, dog-welcoming town with pet-friendly cafés.
Padstow – great for seaside dining where dogs can join.

📌 Useful link: Visit Cornwall Dog-Friendly Guide

Scottish Highlands: Space to Roam

For those who love wide open spaces, the Scottish Highlands offer dramatic landscapes, lochs, and trails. Many holiday cottages and B&Bs welcome dogs, and the area is less crowded than southern hotspots.

🌲 Must-Do Adventures:

Hikes around Loch Ness and Glencoe.
Pet-friendly rail journeys on the Jacobite Steam Train.
Cosy evenings in log cabins with your pup by the fire.

Wales: Coast and Countryside Combined

Wales offers the perfect balance between coastal paths and mountain adventures. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is particularly famous for its dog-friendly trails.

🐶 Where to Explore:

Snowdonia National Park – mountain hikes with views.
Rhossili Bay in Swansea – voted one of the UK’s top dog-friendly beaches.
Traditional Welsh inns that welcome dogs with water bowls and treats.

Dog-Friendly Cities in the UK

If a city break is more your style, don’t worry—several UK cities have embraced dog-friendly culture.

🏙️ Top Picks:

London – Hyde Park, Hampstead Heath, and plenty of dog-friendly cafés.
Edinburgh – Arthur’s Seat walks, dog-friendly pubs on every corner.
Bristol – a hub of cafés, green spaces, and boutique hotels that allow dogs.

Tips for Travelling with Dogs in the UK

Check hotel policies: Even “dog-friendly” places may limit the size or number of dogs.
Plan for weather: The UK is unpredictable—bring towels for wet paws!
Use apps: Tools like DogFriendly or Pawtastic Places UK help find dog-friendly stops.

Final Thoughts

Travelling with your dog in the UK has never been easier. From the rolling hills of the Lake District to the sandy beaches of Cornwall, the options are endless. The key is planning ahead—making sure accommodation, transport, and attractions are dog-friendly.

🐾 So next time you plan a trip, pack the lead, the water bowl, and plenty of treats—your dog deserves a holiday too!