Five of the UK's best dog-friendly escapes
Bracing coastal walks. Untouched woodland. Rolling green countryside. There’s nothing like getting out and exploring the best of the UK with your dog. Dog walks in nature are good for the mind and body, for both you and your furry friend.
But where are the best places to do it? In this guide, we’ll look at five of our favourite spots as well as give you some options for dog-friendly pubs with rooms.
What to look for in a dog-friendly escape
First things first, you need some spectacular landscapes to explore with your dog. It could be a deserted beach, some wild woodland, or craggy cliffs. Next, you’ll want a dog-friendly pub with rooms where you can stay for a night or two, so you can take your time exploring the best of the area.
So you, your family, and your dog feel comfortable, you’ll want somewhere that feels like a home from home with cosy rooms and warm and welcoming pubs. And to keep you all fed and watered, you’ll want refreshing drinks and delicious pub food.
1. Lyndhurst
Located in the New Forest and not far from the South Coast, Lyndhurst is a large village in Hampshire. It’s also a favourite spot of ours in the UK for dog walking. You can expect beautiful scenery and some spectacular dog walks.
Some of the best dog walks in the area include the Lyndhurst Hill and Swan Green Circular, Acres Down Woodland, and the Emery Down Circular. Or you can simply stroll around the village with your furry friend.
Where to stay in Lyndhurst
The White Rabbit
You’ll be living the good life with your dog with a stop and a stay at the White Rabbit Hotel. Set at the heart of Lyndhurst, the pub is surrounded by quaint cottages and has a small green opposite. It’s also right in the middle of a conservation area in the New Forest.
Our team at the White Rabbit is passionate about our food, serving classic pub food made with care, and traditional Sunday roasts with a huge Yorkshire pudding.
2. Guisborough
See the very best of the North Yorkshire countryside together with your four-legged friend with a dog walking trip to Guisborough. On the edge of the North York Moors National Park and not far from the coast, you’ll find breathtaking countryside and stunning views.
Popular dog walks in the area include Roseberry Topping and Woods, Guisborough to Saltburn-by-the Sea, and the Highcliffe Circular.
Where to stay in Guisborough
The Cross Keys
Situated in Upsall, the Cross Keys Hotel is one of the best dog-friendly pubs with rooms in Yorkshire. This charming country pub dates back to the 1800s, with a snug and cosy interior. It’s a great location to relax for a Sunday lunch with friends and family – including furry family members.
The stunning Rosebury Topping is in sight, and there’s even a countryside walk around the pub itself. You can also check out the nearby Cleveland Way National Trail.
3. Newbridge
Set right on the River Thames, just above Oxford, Newbridge is a wonderful place to stop for countryside walks with your furry friend. You can stroll across the 13th-century bridge or take your time relaxing along the river in some glorious British countryside. You’ll love it and so will your dog.Where to stay in Newbridge
The Rose Revived
With a charming location right on the River Thames, stop for a pint or a hearty traditional pub meal at the Rose Revived Hotel, and you won’t be disappointed. The 16th-century building is quaint and classic, while the menu is packed with pub favourites.
In winter, your dog will love the roaring fire too. And you can even check out the nearby Standlake Common Nature Reserve for a great dog walk.
4. Portishead
This town in northern Somerset is awash with beautiful countryside and lovely sea views. The scenery is picture-perfect, there are historical buildings to explore, and public gardens to stroll around. Popular dog walks in the area include Battery Point Lighthouse to Black Nore Lighthouse, Weston Big Wood and Walton Common.Where to stay in Portishead
The Royal Inn
The Royal Inn is a historic, cosy, and great-looking country pub right at the heart of Portishead – with some epic sea views to boot. You can stay for the night in this dog-friendly pub with rooms and enjoy an expertly curated menu.
When the sun’s out, relax with your furry friend in the pub beer garden before getting back out and exploring the best of the local area.
5. Masham
The market town of Masham in North Yorkshire is the perfect place to explore the Yorkshire Dales, with easy access to the Nidderdale National Landscape close by too. Both of these options make the ideal spot for a long dog walk. Some popular dog walks in the local area include Masham to Jervaulx Abbey, the Druids Temple, Hackfall Woods, and the Nidderdale Way.Where to stay in Masham
The King’s Head
This 18th-century country pub is at the heart of Masham – the gateway to the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales National Park. You’ll find delicious seasonal fayre on offer at the King’s Head Hotel, and a comfy place to stay the night with the whole family, dogs included.
Jervaulx Abbey is close by for a dog walk before a pit-stop at this dog-friendly pub with rooms in Yorkshire.