Dog Friendly Holidays in the UK

If you can’t imagine leaving your four legged friend behind when you go on holiday, there’s some good news... a staycation in the UK means you can bring them with you!

All you need to do is:

·         decide where you’re going to go

·         book dog-friendly accommodation

·         plan sufficient toilet breaks and leg stretches during your journey.

You’ll also save lots of money by not having to pay to keep your dog in kennels, and you certainly won't be worrying about their wellbeing if they’re right by your side all week! Here are some of the best dog-friendly holidays in the UK:

Devon & Cornwall
If your dog loves splashing in the sea, chasing seagulls and running from the waves, he’ll love being taken to Devon or Cornwall! There are seasonal bans for dogs on some beaches, but there are more than 100 beautiful coastlines that are happy to welcome well behaved dogs throughout summer, meaning you can both enjoy the wild coastline and peaceful fishing villages. There are also plenty of beer gardens if you fancy trying a pint of west-country ale or cider, and there’s an abundance of dog-friendly accommodation too, particularly if you book a holiday cottage through the Classic Cottages website.

The Lake District
The Lake District in Cumbria is another fantastic holiday destination for dogs. With miles upon miles of rolling greenery, towering mountains, cool lakes and winding rivers, your dog won't be short of space to run around. Most Cumbrian pubs welcome muddy dogs and holiday makers wearing walking boots, so you can be sure that you won't be turned away after a day exploring iconic locations such as Lake Windermere, Wastwater and Scafell Pike. Just be sure to keep an eye out for sheep and cattle grazing in fields: much of the Lake District consists of working farms!

Dorset & Somerset
Just like Devon and Cornwall, Dorset and Somerset are both perfect dog-friendly holiday destinations. There’s a breath-taking Jurassic coastline for you and your dog to explore together, plenty of woodland to forage in and beautiful heathland ready and waiting to be unearthed. There’s also lots of dog-friendly attractions in Dorset if you fancy doing something more urban. For instance, why not check out Dorchester’s Roman Town House, Portland Museum, Tout Quarry Sculpture Park, Clouds Hill or Corfe Castle? These attractions all welcome dogs on leads, and there’s a lot more you can do with your dog during a Dorset holiday.

Hampshire & New Forest

New Forest and Hampshire are said to be two of the most beautiful places in the UK and are well worth a visit any time of year. The New Forest National Park was once a royal hunting for William the Conqueror back in 1079 AD, and New Forest ponies roam freely throughout the forest! Similarly, so do deer and Britain’s only venomous snake – the adder! But don’t worry; adders are easily scared and most will disappear into the undergrowth if your dog approaches. If you’re holidaying in Hampshire, be sure to check out this website if you’re wondering where you can and can’t take your dog.