Inspiration

Our top six dog-friendly places for special occasions

Claire Maguire Profile Image

Claire Maguire

Sawday's Expert

5 min read

Every dog owner knows how frustrating it is when you find somewhere to stay that would be perfect if it just accepted dogs. Even worse are those that say they’re dog-friendly, but are really no more than grudgingly dog-tolerant.

We’ve selected our top six places for special occasions where your dog can join in on the treat too. With space to nap and roam, from the woodlands and rugs of country cottages to the firesides and gardens of grand hotels, every one is the place of your dog’s twitchy dreams.

 

No.15 Great Pulteney, Bath

Style and substance go hand in hand at this art-filled boutique hotel and spa in Bath city. Dogs are welcome in almost all of the decadent bedrooms and are greeted with their very own woof-box. Indulge yourselves with afternoon tea and early evening cocktails after being spoilt in the spa.

Set a day aside to explore Bath and its array of charming cafés, cobbled streets, welcoming pubs (many are dog-friendly) and beautiful countryside walks just a stone’s throw from the centre.

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Another Place – The Lake, Cumbria

This family-friendly hotel on Ullswater is the perfect place to gather everyone for a celebration. Dogs will love joining you all on long walks around the estate, or hopping into the lake to cool off on hotter days. There are 18 beautiful acres to explore, all rolling down towards the shore.

In the evenings, you’ll find a brilliant restaurant in The Living Space, a pooch-friendly place to eat, play games and share stories all together. Sink into big sofas by the fire, or go for a swim in the indoor 20-metre pool before retreating to your comfortable bedroom to soak in the bath.

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The Scarlet Hotel, Cornwall

One of the loveliest, most romantic hotels in Britain, with sea views and relaxing rooms. Eat excellent fresh seafood out on the terrace with your dog at your feet, and go for a walk along Mawgan Porth beach (dog-friendly year round).

After days out, return to soothe your tired muscles with a long soak in the wood-fired hot tub high on the cliff top, overlooking the beach below. For a real treat, book a treatment in the Ayurvedic spa and swim in the pool with views out towards the ocean. You’ll all leave feeling refreshed and revitalised.

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The Peacock at Rowsley, Derbyshire

This grand old house dates back to 1652 and is located in the beautiful Peak District National Park. Its four-poster beds (one is from Belvoir Castle), picturesque gardens and impeccable food make it a fabulous place for a romantic celebration. Amazing food awaits in the restaurant – expect meat and game from the estate, and afternoon tea in the garden during summer.

Take your dog and explore the extensive grounds or the many walking trails around the Peak District, and return to sink into fireside seats by the bar or enjoy a G&T out on the terrace.

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Stow House, Yorkshire

In the heart of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales is this lovingly restored boutique Bed and Breakfast. Each bedroom has been decorated immaculately, boasting restored beams, sash windows, unique artwork and cast iron baths. Dogs are welcome in almost all areas, so enjoy a cocktail in the lounge, a coffee in the snug and dinner in the dining room without them leaving your side.

Picturesque walking trails start from your doorstep – head towards the River Ure past waterfalls and herons, or climb Penhill and marvel at the incredible views from the top. Return to help yourself to drinks from the honesty bar and look forward to delicious fresh breakfasts the next morning.

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The Meikleour Arms, Perth & Kinross

This historic but brightly renovated country estate in dense, ancient woodland is a wonderful outdoorsy retreat. Go fishing on the Tay, pick vegetables from the garden and walk through the forest. With very few rules, your four-legged friend can accompany you throughout the day.

In the evenings, head to the restaurant for incredible fresh produce – try scallops hand-dived on the west coast, vegetables and herbs from the walled garden and venison from the Meikleour Forest, paired with unique wines from lesser-known Bordeaux vineyards.

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More inspiration…

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Dog-friendly holidays

Visit our dog friendly hub and be inspired by our favourite places to stay, things to do, beaches to visit, and our favourite destinations.

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Dog-friendly collection

Browse our collection of private self-catering cottages, boutique hotels, charming B&Bs and welcoming pubs with rooms, where your dog can sleep over too.

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Romantic getaways

Our most romantic hotels, B&Bs, inns and self-catering retreats perfect for escaping with your other half for long walks, coastal sunsets and fireside lounging.

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Claire Maguire

Sawday's Expert

Claire combines her twin loves of writing and travel to create interesting and inspiring blog content. Originally from Ireland, she spent a lot of time in coastal Donegal, so visiting anywhere by the sea brings a special kind of happiness and nostalgia. Her favourite sort of place is anything that makes her say “I wish I lived here!” and as a big foodie, she sees time away as a period of no-holds-barred eating and drinking against a picturesque backdrop.
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