For the Love of Dogs: The top 10 dog-friendly hotel stays in the UK
6 August 2024
In recent years, the trend of travelling with pets has surged, transforming from a niche market to a booming industry.
Luxury hotels across the UK have not only embraced this shift but have elevated the experience, offering bespoke services that cater to even the most discerning canine companions, and becoming self-titled ‘dog hotels’. Top-tier establishments are redefining hospitality for four-legged guests - from gourmet doggy menus to dedicated concierge services, the offerings have become increasingly sophisticated.
This shift reflects a deeper change in how we view our pets – no longer just animals, but integral family members deserving of equal holiday indulgence, and quality time. Whether you're seeking a coastal retreat, a countryside escape, or are on the hunt for the best dog-walks in the UK, this selection of dog friendly accommodation promises an unforgettable stay for both you and your pooch.
Join us as we unpack the top 10 places to enjoy a dog-friendly break, ensuring that your next holiday can truly be a family affair, tailored to delight every person or pet.
Homewood Hotel, Somerset
Nestled in the rolling hills of Somerset, Homewood Hotel offers a canine experience that rivals that of its human guests. With 31 dog-friendly rooms, the hotel goes above and beyond with its 'Woof Box' – a thoughtfully curated welcome package filled with Lily's Kitchen fare, treats, and a ball. For a supplement, your dog can enjoy plush beds and dedicated bowls in-room. The hotel's commitment to four-legged comfort extends to its dining options, with dogs welcome in the bar and lounges, where a special canine menu awaits. For pampered pooches, a comprehensive grooming service is available, alongside unique touches like doggy robes and a welly store for post-walk cleanliness. The dog concierge service ensures every canine whim is catered to, while the 20-acre grounds and dedicated agility course provide ample opportunity for exercise and play.
Seaham Hall, Durham
Perched on the dramatic Durham coastline, Seaham Hall offers a selection of luxury dog friendly lodges for pets and owners alike. The Garden Suites, complete with private gardens and outdoor hot tubs, provide an idyllic setting for a pet-friendly getaway. Upon arrival, furry guests are greeted with a comprehensive 'pup-pack', including a cosy bed and special towels for post-beach walks. The hotel's proximity to the Durham Heritage Coastal Walk offers an unparalleled opportunity for exploration, with 11 miles of breathtaking coastal paths stretching from Seaham to Crimdon Park. For those preferring a shorter jaunt, the Seaham Hall and Beach Circular provides a pleasant route directly from the hotel grounds to the shoreline.
Grove of Narberth, Pembrokeshire
In the heart of Pembrokeshire, Grove of Narberth offers a selection of dog-friendly accommodations that blend seamlessly with the pastoral Welsh landscape. From the Cottage Garden Suites with their inviting open gardens, to the first-floor Elderflower suite with its ground-floor terrace access, each space is thoughtfully designed to accommodate canine guests. The hotel's attention to detail extends to its doggy dining menu, crafted in collaboration with Burns Real Dog Food. The extensive grounds provide a natural playground for dogs, while nearby Coed Canaston Wood offers scenic woodland walks. For socialisation, the highly-rated Valley Orchard Dog Park in Narberth provides a safe environment for off-lead play.
Thurlestone, South Devon
Thurlestone Hotel in South Devon embraces its coastal setting with a range of dog-friendly accommodation and a partnership with Forthglade natural pet food. Upon arrival, canine guests receive a goody bag brimming with treats, toys, and essential information on local dog-friendly beaches. The hotel's location is a paradise for dog walkers, with access to numerous coastal paths and year-round dog-friendly beaches. The Thurlestone Circular Walk, an 8-mile route showcasing the best of South Devon's scenery, offers an excellent opportunity for a day's adventure with your four-legged companion.
Whatley Manor, Wiltshire
Whatley Manor in Wiltshire offers a refined country house experience for dogs and their owners. The hotel's thoughtful approach is evident in their welcome letter, which includes tailored walking routes and a garden map highlighting the best areas for canine exploration. Dogs are welcome to join their owners in the drawing rooms for afternoon tea or a light meal from the A la Carte menu. The beautiful gardens and grounds provide ample space for leisurely strolls, while nearby Cloatley Meadows Nature Reserve offers a diverse landscape of meadows and wetlands for more adventurous outings.
The Athenaeum, London
For those seeking an urban retreat, The Athenaeum in the heart of London offers a sophisticated dog-friendly experience. The VIPup Package includes a range of luxurious amenities, from comfortable beds to gourmet treats. A particular highlight is the Athenaeum bow tie, a stylish souvenir for the fashion-conscious pup. The hotel's location adjacent to Green Park and Hyde Park provides easy access to vast green spaces, a rarity in central London. For those requiring additional services, dog sitting, walking, and grooming can be arranged for a supplementary fee.
Bailiffscourt Hotel, Sussex
Nestled in the Sussex countryside, Bailiffscourt Hotel offers a quintessential English retreat for dogs and their owners. The Sandy Paws package includes a range of thoughtful touches, from a welcome kit with bowls and treats to a 'Ruff and Tumble' drying coat for post-walk comfort. The hotel's 30-acre grounds and proximity to Climping Beach provide diverse landscapes for exploration. Whether your dog prefers a woodland ramble or a seaside sprint, Bailiffscourt caters to all canine preferences.
The Vineyard, Berkshire
The Vineyard in Berkshire offers a taste of rural luxury with its dog-friendly accommodation, the Atrium Suites. Canine guests are provided with beds, bowls, and treats, along with a map of nearby dog walks to explore the picturesque Berkshire countryside. A highlight of the area is Snelsmore Common Country Park, offering a variety of marked trails through diverse landscapes. The park's Easy Access Trail ensures that all dogs, regardless of their owners' mobility, can enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
The Painswick, Gloucestershire
In the heart of the Cotswolds, The Painswick welcomes dogs with open arms and a range of pet-friendly amenities. The hotel's Boot Room is stocked with wellies and coats for human guests, alongside a curated selection of local walks for four-legged explorers. Dogs are welcome in various areas of the hotel, from the bar to the garden lounge, ensuring they can be part of every aspect of your stay. The nearby Painswick Beacon Walk offers a relaxed route with panoramic views, perfect for a morning walk or evening stroll.
Talbooth House, Colchester
Talbooth House in Colchester has an elegant approach to dog-friendly accommodation. The hotel's outdoor and covered dining areas ensure that meals can be a family affair, four-legged members included. The surrounding area offers diverse experiences for dogs and their owners. Dedham Vale Vineyard welcomes canine visitors, allowing for a unique wine-tasting experience with your pet in tow. For those seeking more expansive green spaces, High Woods Country Park provides extensive walking trails through woodlands, meadows, and lakes.
Lead the Way
For those seeking even more dog-friendly accommodation options, explore the Lead the Way collection. From coastal retreats where your furry friend can frolic in the waves to countryside escapes with endless fields to explore, this collection ensures that every tail-wagging adventurer is catered for.
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