Since travelling with pets abroad can be tricky, many of us are choosing to holiday closer to home, and pet-friendly breaks are becoming increasingly popular. From castles to cottages, plus luxury dog-friendly hotels, these UK hotspots welcome four-legged guests with the same enthusiasm as two-legged ones.
There's something special about getting away with your four-legged friend; long walks, exploring new places, seeing new sights and snoozing together at the end of the day.
So, pack up your bowls, leads and dog harnesses - we're going on an adventure!
Dog-friendly breaks UK
The Sherwood Hideaway at Thoresby, Nottinghamshire
Shrug off the daily grind and head down to the woods, where you’ll find these luxury lodges hidden away on the edge of Sherwood Forest. Set on part of the Thoresby Estate, the idyllic setting and walks right on your doorstep make this the perfect base for exploring the forest with furry friends. With a good selection of dog-friendly lodges, some with their own private enclosed decking and hot tub (for humans!), it’s nature – with a touch of luxury. On arrival you’ll receive a welcome pack with chocolate, wine and dog treats too!
Old Oaks, Glastonbury, Somerset
This award-winning touring, camping and glamping park takes the (doggy) biscuit! All pitches are pet-friendly, but your dog can also stay in the park’s luxury shepherd huts, glamping cabins and lodges. There’s a 300m enclosed doggy run, warm water dog shower, doggy ice-cream and even a washing machine for pet blankets and towels. Old Oaks has handy leaflets of dog-friendly places to visit and can recommend a walking and minding service.
And there's more! A new dog swimming pool and nature pond opens soon, located at the bottom of the new, large dog field, which opened in June 2022.
Bainland Lodge Retreats, Lincolnshire
A 45-acre estate, Bainland is set in the heart of the beautiful Lincolnshire countryside, just outside Woodhall Spa, a former Lincolnshire spa town. From safari tents and shepherds huts to romantic hideaways and huge family villas that sleep up to 24 people, there’s something for everyone. Dogs are welcome in the majority of accommodation and will be greeted with food and water bowls, treats, poo bags and a ball. There are plenty of dog-friendly beaches along the Lincolnshire coast and lots of walks to tire them out.
Borrowdale Hotel, Keswick, The Lake District
The Lake District is of course a dog walker’s paradise, so it’s no surprise that it’s brimming with pup-friendly pubs and places to stay. However, for a room with a view, the Borrowdale Hotel is hard to beat. Situated at the foot of Shepherd’s Crag in the scenic Borrowdale valley and just a stone’s throw away from the stunning Lodore Falls waterfall, you’ll find dog-friendly lounges with real log fires, comfy armchairs and hearty food. A short walk from Derwentwater, it’s the perfect spot to rest after exploring everything the Lakes has to offer.
Dogs can stay at the Borrowdale for £15 per night per dog. Book online and add in your dog as an extra.
Woodfarm Barns, Stonham Aspal, Suffolk
Nestled in the heart of the Suffolk countryside you’ll find Woodfarm Barns, a collection of characterful holiday cottages. With doggy-proof enclosed gardens (some with private hot tubs), there’s also a two-acre enclosed meadow, where your pooch can sniff and explore off-lead to their heart’s content! You’ll also find a smaller section just for nervous and older dogs. On arrival you’ll be greeted with a delicious breakfast basket and – of course – a dog treat.
The barns welcome up to 3 dogs and charge £15 each per stay.
The Courthouse, Flat Cap Hotels, Cheshire
Set in an old courthouse, The Courthouse is steeped in history with nine uniquely designed bedrooms that have everything you and your furry companion could need for a great night's sleep. Located in the Centre of Knutsford, pups are welcomed with open arms in both the hotel and the attractive, refurbished bar and restaurant. They'll even enjoy a sausage breakfast as you tuck into your full English.
Book your room from £165 and enjoy a Pawfect Stay.
Reviewed by Digital Writer Emily Gilbert: "I was a bit nervous about taking our sausage dog Luna to a hotel for the night having never done it before but everyone at The Courthouse was lovely and nobody blinked an eye, even when she got a bit barky! The building is so impressive and the rooms are comfortable and well-fitted out. We stopped by the restaurant for dinner and breakfast and the food was gorgeous, both meals were presented beautifully and tasted spectacular. My husband especially rated the cocktails and Luna was delighted with her sausage breakfast!"
Langley Castle, Northumberland
What’s not to love about a stay at this 14th Century stately pile? History buffs will be interested in the location, as it’s just a short drive away from Hadrian’s Wall and the historic town of Hexham. Dog-friendly Castle View rooms overlook the castle, but pups are also allowed in the castle itself. In fact, they’ll be treated like royalty with the Poochy Déjeuner doggy package, which includes a bed and water bowl, plus a tasty breakfast of sausages and scrambled eggs for only £20 per night! Dog-friendly stays must be booked over the phone.