The ultimate and definitive guide to the best and totally wag-worthy dog-friendly hotels in the UK. Doggy holidays just got a MAJOR upgrade…
Not all hotels are as dog friendly as they make themselves out to be, so I’ve hand-picked these wag-worthy hotels that don’t just permit dogs, but truly welcome them – from gourmet dog menus and dog pampering treatments to dog-friendly beer and even an in-house ‘phodographer’ to capture your dog’s happy holiday moments.
After all, when your dog joins you on holiday, you want the break to be fun for them, too, right? And although there are countless hotels around the country that allow dogs (read: tolerate), there are only a few that really go above and beyond to ensure that their time is fun and memorable as yours. Which, frankly, is how it should be.
With plenty of in-room comforts including squishy dog beds, personalised bowls and organic treats, and lots of lovely walking routes nearby, these pawsome hotels have the bow-wow factor and guarantee a warm wag-worthy welcome.
Starting with the hotels that already have Flora’s stamp of approval (she’s a lucky girl), these hotels are a pup’s paradise and will make taking your dog on holiday a breeze, so both you and your pooch will return feeling blissfully relaxed and fully revived.
1. Spread Eagle, Midhurst
The best dog-friendly hotel we’ve stayed at so far, the Spread Eagle hotel made sure that Flora’s stay was as lovely as our own.
Within sniffing distance of the South Downs National Park, the hotel sits in the perfect spot for doggies to stretch their legs and explore the countryside – or simply curl up by the fire. Their Muddy Paws package includes a welcome kit with a cosy dog bed, food and water bowls and tasty meals, plus a ‘Ruff and Tumble’ drying coat to take home, and there’s also a menu of dog walks – including the perfect dawn stroll for early risers, dusk walks to make the most of the evening light, and long routes for the endlessly energetic.
For the more adventurous walkers there’s a picnic you can take, complete with a bottle of Ridgeview sparkling wine to toast the occasion. Dogs can also take the opportunity for some summer sprucing during their stay, booking in a wash and blow-dry or a full groom.
2. Villa Henrietta park in Bath
Villa at Henrietta Park is a pup’s paradise (not to mention ours too). Again, Flora was made to feel super welcome, and the hotel had placed a comfy dog bed in our room, along with dog food, treats, poop bags and a toy.
Although mere moments from the very heart of historic Bath and all its shops and restaurants, the five-star Villa at Henrietta Park is ideally situated on a quiet residential street and nestled right opposite a leafy park – perfect for furry companions.
3. Beach Retreats
Not a hotel as such, but a collection of beach cottages and villas, Beach Retreats has a whole range of dog-friendly houses that are perfect for romantic breaks or group holidays.
We recently stayed at their Sand And Sea property which was a stone’s throw from the dog-friendly beach.
All of the Beach Retreats are located near dog friendly beaches where they can explore the caves, dig up the sand, splash in the waves and meet new friends.
And with your own kitchen and living spaces you won’t have to worry about whether or not your pup can come along. There’s lots of nearby activities you can do where you can bring your dog along too!
4. Brooks Country House hotel in Herefordshire
Brooks Country House is a stunning Georgian manor house that sits on 13 acres in the Wye Valley – an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – and overlooks an expanse of former parkland, now owned by the National Trust.
In a beautiful corner of rural Herefordshire, this is the best of British countryside: swans on a lake, pheasant and ducks, lambs on undulating hills, mature trees and dreamy views in every direction – a pup’s paradise! Dogs are welcome in some parts of the hotel but not the restaurant, and the dog-friendly rooms are in the courtyard and come with a dog bed, dog bowl and doggy treats.
5. Burley Manor
With its wide-open spaces, endless woodlands and 143 miles of traffic-free track, is there anywhere better than the New Forest to bring man’s best friend? At Burley Manor, furry companions will find their own dog mat, a welcome bag of delicious healthy snacks and treats and special bowls to eat and drink from.
Dog-friendly rooms have direct access onto the hotel grounds, so you can just open the door of your room onto your private terrace and let your dog do their business whilst you’re still sipping coffee in your dressing gown.
Dogs are allowed in most areas of the hotel including the bar area (where there’s a jar of doggy biscuits), but are not allowed in the main restaurant – guests can choose to leave their dog in their room, or have their meal in the informal bar and lounge area where their pup can join them. There’s also 8 acres of hotel grounds to explore!
6. The Headland Hotel
One of the best dog friendly hotels in Cornwall, The Headland Hotel have always understood that dogs are part of the family. Just a stone’s throw from the beach, wet, sandy pooches are also very welcome.
In return for their best behaviour, dogs are spoilt with a welcome pack that includes a bowl, blanket, food, and treats. There’s also plenty of water bowls dotted around the hotel so they’ll feel perfectly at home.
7. The Gallivant
The Gallivant Hotel in Camber sands is pretty much doggy heaven. There are dog biscuits and dog baskets galore, and the beach is just a lead tugging 200 metres away over the dunes with walks that go on for miles (eight, to be exact).
Your dog can also relax with a complimentary dog rug, toy and water bowl in your room.
8. Lime Wood
Canine companions will love the warm welcome at this stately stay in the heart of the New Forest – from a ribbon-wrapped Bonio biscuit to gorgeous grounds to play on.
Dogs are welcome in the Garden Lodges which include open fires, wood and stone floors, access to private terraces and a cosy dog basket.
9. Luton Hoo
The grand and imposing 5 star Luton Hoo hotel lies on the border of Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire and boasts an impressive spa.
The dog-friendly rooms all have private patio doors that open out onto the grounds, and the rooms include a yummy dog dinner, dog bed, bowls, balls, toys and dog snacks!
For fussy eater, their chef can prepare a pre-ordered dinner and have it delivered to your room.
10. Swan at Lavenham Hotel & Spa
The 15th century 4-star Swan at Lavenham hotel has a dog registration card on arrival, as well as an in-room doggy dinner menu and treats. The menu includes dishes like a Bowser Burger, or grilled free-range chicken served with rice, and there’s even a selection of sides like Pooch’s Pilaf and Crispy Pigs Ears and a doggy afternoon tea with dog-friendly donuts, cupcakes and carrot cake made from yogurt powder, buttermilk, sugar-free apple sauce and honey. Dogs on a lead are welcome in the lounge where they can curl up in front of the cosy open fire or outside in the medieval courtyard gardens.
11. The Nare hotel in Cornwall
Thw privately owned Nare hotel even offer their own Table d’Hotel menu, including a seasonal Chef’s Dish of the Day. Fussy eaters or those with special dietary requirements will find the Dog’ a la carte menu offers an even wider selection. There’s a field behind the hotel for stretching their legs, as well as a nearby coastal footpath and Carne beach – which the hotel overlooks.
12. The Black Swan in Helmsley
The Black Swan at Helmsley is renowned for its dog-friendly welcome, where dogs are welcome to snuggle by the open log fire in the bar or bask in the summer sun in their walled garden, as well as share your room with you.
Dog-friendly rooms come with tasty dog treats (plus a half bottle of chilled Champagne for the dog parent), a dog bed and bowls, plus a voucher for a woodland photo shoot for up to three dogs with the hotel’s award-winning ‘phodographer’, lasting approximately 1 and a half hours including editing, polishing and preparing your images. On top of this, the hotel is home to some of the finest walking routes in the land.
13. Duke’s London
Duke’s London hotel takes dog-friendly to a whole other level with their VIP (Very Important Pet) package.
From two gourmet deals per day from the Pet Menu, a luxurious dog bed in their room with comfy cushions to snuggle up in, to 24-hour dog sitting and dog walking services and the ultimate dog grooming package as well as ‘expert’ Personal Dog Shopper on hand to pick out only the best pet toys for your canine friend, and even veterinary services on request, this is probably just about as luxurious as it gets for any pet.
14. Gleneagles hotel
The five-star Gleneagles hotel is best known for their golf (they’ve been awarded the Best Golf Resort in the World) and their gourmet restaurants (including a 2 Michelin star restaurant on site), but this luxurious hotel is dog-friendly too!
Dogs can stay in your bedroom, but if you’re on a romantic break then the Gundog School at Gleneagles offers state-of-the-art indoor heated kennels, furnished with a king-size dog bed with a deep, comfortable mattress, so your pet can stay in the lap of luxury.
Kennel staff will clean out, feed and water your dog, and will let them out into one of the secure exercise paddocks each morning. You’ll of course have your own key to the kennels and the code to unlock your dog’s personal kennel door so you can take them for walks in the beautiful Perthshire countryside around the hotel – or Gleneagles offer dog walking service too. The hotel also offers dog training with the hotel’s professional trainers, so they can brush up on their manners whilst you brush up on your golf or soak in the spa.
15. Good Wood Hotel Chichester
At Good Wood Hotel, dogs get access to their very own private members’ club, The Kennels! At this hotel you’ll find tasty treats available on request (like an organic pig’s ear), as well as walking maps outlining the estate’s most dog-friendly routes. Dog parents are even given a dog bed, pooper scooper and bags to use during their stay.
And you don’t have to worry about leaving your furry friend in your room whilst you eat, as dogs are welcome in the dining room too. There’s even a dog food menu of home-cooked meals using Goodwood Home Farm ingredients. But be sure to call in advance, as of the 91 rooms only 6 are dog-friendly. There’s also no restriction on dog size and you can bring up to 2 dogs.
16. Bovey Castle
Dogs are well catered for at Bovey Castle, where they’ll find biscuits at reception, sausages for breakfast and a doggy welcome pack – with bedding, bowls and a ‘Day Trips for Dogs’ guide which includes spectacular walking suggestions to dog-friendly pubs and beaches nearby. Dogs are welcomed in ALL guest rooms from a classic double to the top suite, and are welcome in the lounge too. Situated in the spectacular Dartmoor National Park, there are walks galore.
17. The Great House, Sonning
Leafy green surroundings along the peaceful River Thames couldn’t make for a more serene escape for you and your furry friend. Your dog will love The Great House as much as you when they realise they’re allowed into the hotel restaurant (food passed under the table at your discretion). This picturesque corner of Berkshire will keep tails wagging with riverside walks and dog friendly pubs right under your thumb.
18. Bourne Valley Inn Hampshire
The quintessentially English Bourne Valley Inn welcomes dogs with doggie beer (yes, really) and free biscuits behind the bar, where they’re welcome to join you for a drink and chill.
Oh, and dogs are allowed in the restaurant too, so you won’t have to leave them on their lonesome in your room.
19. Trout Inn
The Trout at Tadpole Bridge is nestled deep in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, and is surrounded by fields and the river Thames flowing just outside the door.
There are dog-friendly bedrooms, the option to dine with your dog, pet amenities on site and dogs stay completely free.
20. The Miller of Mansfield
The 17th century coaching inn The Miller of Mansfield in Goring on Thames welcome dogs in the bar and in the bedrooms, and provide dog bowls, beds, biscuits and are even known to stock dog-friendly beer! There’s boat hire on the river nearby, perfect for a paddle on the water, and lots of riverside walks nearby.
21. Cliveden Hotel
What could a dog want more than a doggie welcome pack with a comfy bed and a chef’s canine menu, as well as dog-sitting and dog walking services? Well, how about the 250 acres of surrounding National Trust woodland paths designed for dogs to explore. Good luck leaving Cliveden Hotel!
Although your dog can sniff to their heart’s content along the National Trust woodland paths, Cliveden’s manicured gardens and lawns are strictly off-limits, as is their spa and restaurant / dining rooms.
22. Whatley Manor
At Whatley Manor, dogs can explore the 12-acres of gorgeous grounds, including 26 distinctive areas of garden – your friend will be spoilt for choice with all the fabulous parkland to sniff! Westonbirt Arboretum and Cotswold Water Park are both nearby and great for days out with your pooch.
After your stroll, relax together in any of the Whatley Manor’s lounges – dogs are welcome here. All dogs can expect a luxury dog basket, food, treats, toy, bowls and pet towels waiting in their room.
23. Rosewood London
Thought dog-friendly hotels were strictly for the countryside only? The five-star Rosewood hotel in London offers a canine package where guests and their dogs can enjoy pampering sessions together! Dog-friendly rooms have been designed by Barbour and include a Barbour dog bed, coats and leads for dogs to use during their stay, and all dog guests receive a welcome card and treats from the hotel’s resident golden retriever, Pearl.
There’s also a Pearl’s Guide to London that will advise the best tips on where to walk, dine and shop for guests and their four-legged friends. There’s also dog-sitting services available for those that can’t take their dog with them.
24. The Scarlet Hotel in Cornwall
Your dog will thank you for the endless sandy walks along the cliff side and the homemade doggie treats waiting on arrival at the Scarlet Hotel near Newquay in Cornwall. Your pooch can indulge in the ultimate luxury hotel room – a dog-friendly suite split over two levels with a seating pod looking out over the delightful sea beyond. And although your little pal isn’t allowed in the restaurant, they can find some company with Jasper, the hotel’s whippet, out on the balcony while you work your way through the hotel’s menu. You can go light on the pet packing too as eating and drinking bowls, a blanket and even waste bags are provided by the hotel.
25. Hotel Tresanton, St Mawes, Cornwall
Seafront Tresanton has a handful of dog-friendly bedrooms to choose from including one with a private garden. All pooches get their own bed, blanket and food bowl, and guests can choose to take their meals in the special Dog’s Bar, bedecked with chairs and cushions in cute doggie prints, and Hunter wellies can be borrowed for walks along the coastal path and local beaches.
26. Ashdown Park Hotel
Surrounded by 186 acres of secret gardens, lakes and woods, the 19th century Neo-Gothic Ashdown Park country house is doggy heaven. Their dog friendly rooms have french doors that open onto directly out into the parkland, complete with private terrace with outdoor furniture for relaxing with your pooch by your side.
All dog guests get their own dog basket, blanket and bowls for the duration of their stay along with a map of walking trails (that also include local dog-friendly pubs), a dog dinner and a goodie bag that includes a 2kg bag of dog food, a bag of treats, and a tin of wet food.
27. Four Seasons Hampshire
Testament to their dog-friendliness, the Four Seasons in Hampshire have their own resident black Labrador called Oliver Beckington.
There are dog-sitting services and even activities on offer, and dog-friendly rooms include a dog bed, grooming products, feeding bowls, packet of food, and even personalized spring water on arrival.
28. The Balmer Lawn Hotel and Spa, New Forest
Open forest surrounds this 4-star former hunting lodge, with 220 square miles of national park and 40 miles of coastline for dogs to explore. Most pubs in the area are dog-friendly, offering drinking bowls and bar snacks, and the Balmer Lawn Hotel has an outdoor wash down area to de-sand your dog post-walk. The dog-friendly bedrooms come with water bowls, daily canine treats and towels for muddy paws.
29. The Grove Hotel
The 18th century Grove Hotel is surrounded by 300 acres of land and includes a spa, onsite golf course, biking trails and tennis court. Dogs are allowed to stay in your room with you, and the hotel also offers a pet-sitter for when you want to enjoy the spa or restaurant.
30. The Mayflower
The Mayflower is a seaside hotel with a nautical theme and Lymington harbour views, and is surrounded by beautiful Hampshire countryside. There’s a dog-friendly beach on the doorstep, as well as a 60 mile long foot path that follows the coast of the Solent perfect for energetic dogs, and dogs are welcome all over the hotel including the restaurant.
31. Duchess of Cornwall
The Duchess of Cornwall in Poundbury, Dorset was opened by Prince Charles, Camilla and the Queen, in partnership with The Duchy of Cornwall. Decorated in a distinctive style by Camilla’s sister, Annabel Elliot, the boutique hotel is stunning as well as dog friendly. Dogs are free to sleep in the bedrooms and roam all over the hotel including the pub, and there’s even dog ice cream on offer!
32. Lulworth Cove Inn
The Lulworth Cove Inn sits on the Jurassic coast, famous for ITV’s recent TV hit, Broadchurch. With its stunning coastal views – just steps from a true natural wonder, it’s ideal for dog walkers and those that enjoy the great outdoors. Located along an exciting ‘Fossil Forest’ South West coast path, it’s also perfect for the kids to go fossil hunting along the Jurassic coastline, and for parents to marvel at a truly idyllic part of this famous World Heritage Site.
33. The Grange Hotel
Four-legged friends are given a warm welcome at The Grange Hotel in York with a bed, bowl and a bag of home-baked and healthy pooch treats. Dogs can even dine with their owners in The Dante Room of the Regency Grade II listed townhouse hotel and there are plenty of walks on your doorstep.
34. The Fish Hotel Cotswolds
Surrounded by 400 acres of countryside, your little one is not going to get bored at the Fish Hotel. Dogs can sleep in their dog-friendly rooms in The Stables, and are also welcome in the bar where they can relax by the 360° fire after a long day’s walkies.
35. Oakley Court near Windsor
The ‘Woofs Welcome’ package at Oakley Court provides pooches with a bed, blanket, bowl, toy and a treat on arrival, plus the hotel’s 33-acre estate offers lots of space for dogs to roam around in.
