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The best dog friendly holiday ideas in the UK
Travelling with your canine companion can be one of the most rewarding and magical things to do on your break. And it doesn't have to mean limiting your options, either. In fact, you’ll find a wealth of dog friendly holiday ideas right here in the UK, that cater perfectly to you and your four-legged friend.
Are you and your pup looking for a coastal escape where you can bound along the beach together? Or are you keen to retreat to the countryside, where you can be surrounded by nature and atmospheric woodlands? No matter what you decide, there's something to suit every dog and their owner in Britain. In this guide, we'll uncover some of the best dog friendly holiday ideas and locations in the UK, helping ensure that you experience new adventures with your loyal sidekick in tow, and have the most memorable time away together.
Beach getaways
One of the first dog friendly holiday ideas in the UK to consider, is having a beach getaway with your pup. It’s hard to beat a break away where you and your furry friend get to soak up the sun, splash in the waves, and trail across the sand together. Here are some ideas for where to go:
Cornwall
When it comes to beaches, Cornwall is a top spot, and certainly a true dog lover's paradise. You’ll find miles of golden sandy beaches that welcome pups all year round. Take your dog for a refreshing dip in the waters at Fistral Beach, or enjoy a scenic coastal walk along Perranporth Beach.
Some great dog friendly accommodation for this location includes: Newquay Bay Holiday Park.
North Wales
You also have the fantastic North Wales which makes for one of the best dog friendly holiday ideas in the UK. This region provides the perfect backdrop for a dog friendly beach break, with places like Rhyl Beach's long, sandy stretch. Also, there’s the quaint seaside town of Llandudno that offers access to several dog-welcoming beaches, including the iconic West Shore.
Some great dog friendly accommodation for this location includes: Golden Sands Holiday Park.
Walking holidays
Another one of the best dog friendly holiday ideas in the UK is going on a walking break. If there’s one thing your pup likely loves, it’s walks. Sometimes even just the word “walk” or “walkies” is enough to get tails wagging. So, here are some top places for walking breaks with your dog:
The Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is a true haven for dogs and their owners who love walks, with plenty of scenic trails and paths to discover. You can explore the dramatic Needles at Alum Bay, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the peaceful woodland of Parkhurst Forest. You can also walk along the scenic Ventnor Downs, a National Trust location.
Some great dog friendly accommodation for this location includes: Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park.
Dorset
The picturesque coastline of Dorset is another ideal destination for walking holidays with your dog. For one, the Jurassic Coast is famous for its many scenic stretches of sand, fascinating fossils to discover, and landmarks like Durdle Door. You can also tackle a section of the South West Coast Path, which offers breathtaking sea views and plenty of opportunities for your pup to stretch their legs.
Some great dog friendly accommodation for this location includes: Swanage Bay Holiday Park.
Escapes to nature
Some more dog friendly holiday ideas in the UK involve an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life into the rolling countryside or enchanting forests of the UK. There’s so much for you and your pup to discover, from wildlife and plants to scenic forest trails. Some great spots for this are:
Scotland
With its majestic lochs and serene glens, Scotland is a dream destination for those wanting to escape to nature with their dog. You and your pup can explore the rugged landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park, or discover the stunning Loch Lomond on a peaceful walk, where your dog can roam freely and breathe in the fresh, clean air.
Some great dog friendly accommodation for this location includes: Moffat Manor Holiday Park.
Hampshire
The diverse landscapes of Hampshire provide the perfect nature playground for dogs and their owners, especially because this is where you’ll find the enchanting New Forest. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the ancient woodland, exploring new trails and natural sights with your four-legged friend, who will be running and playing to their heart's content.
Some great dog friendly accommodation for this location includes: Sandy Balls Holiday Park.
Culturally enriching trips
Another one of the best dog friendly holiday ideas in the UK is to turn your trip into a cultural getaway, full of new experiences in different cultures around the UK. The best way to do this is to explore unique activities and historical sights in your chosen location. Some top spots include:
Lincolnshire
Discover the rich history of Lincolnshire, with its beautiful city that’s bursting with culture. You can visit the charming markets, such as Cornhill Market, that offer a cultural experience that's perfectly suited for dog friendly holidays. Your pup can also accompany you as you explore the impressive Lincoln Cathedral, a staple of this region’s historical significance.
Some great dog friendly accommodation for this location includes: Cleethorpes Pearl Holiday Park.
Yorkshire
The next great spot for culture-rich dog friendly holidays in the UK is Yorkshire. From the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales to the vibrant city of York, Yorkshire is a diverse region that welcomes dogs with open arms. Many of Yorkshire's historic sites, are dog friendly – such as Whitby Abbey and Castle Howard – allowing you to immerse yourself in the region's cultural heritage with your four-legged friend by your side.
Some great dog friendly accommodation for this location includes: Woodland Lakes Holiday Park.
Luxury pup breaks
If there’s one thing to consider for your dog friendly holiday ideas in the UK, it’s how you can make your stay as comfortable as possible for you and your pup. That’s why it’s a great idea to venture somewhere you can have an extravagant, hassle-free stay with your furry friend. Here are some top picks for luxury pup breaks in the UK:
Tattershall Lakes
For those seeking a touch of luxury, Tattershall Lakes in Lincolnshire offers a premier dog friendly holiday experience. This fantastic holiday park boasts a range of stylish lodges and caravans that cater to canine guests. What’s more, you’ll find some exclusive accommodation options that welcome your pup too, such as the fact you and your pup can feel like superstars when you stay in The Rockstar.
Sandy Balls
Nestled in the heart of the New Forest, Sandy Balls is an ideal holiday resort that caters perfectly to dogs and their owners, for the most unforgettable time away. This picturesque destination features luxury accommodation options that you and your pup will love. For example, what could be more luxury than a dog shower? But that’s exactly what you’ll get when you stay in The Knightwood for your break away.
Dog friendly holiday ideas in the UK – FAQs
You’ll likely have some questions surrounding the best dog friendly holiday ideas in the UK. Don’t worry, as we’ll answer some of the top queries below:
Where is the best place to go on holiday in the UK with a dog?
The best place to go on holiday in the UK with a dog will largely depend on your interests and the type of experience you're seeking. That being said, some popular destinations include Cornwall, the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the Scottish Highlands, all of which offer some great dog friendly attractions and experiences.
What to do on holiday with a dog?
There are lots of things to do on a holiday with a dog, which is why it’s important to choose the best location for your activities. You can enjoy a wide range of experiences, from coastal walks and hiking in the woods to visiting dog-friendly pubs and exploring various historic sites. Also, many holiday destinations provide dedicated dog parks, play areas, and facilities to keep your four-legged friend entertained.
Which beach is best for dogs UK?
The best beach for dogs in the UK will come down to preference, but some of the best dog-friendly beaches in the UK include Fistral Beach in Cornwall, Rhyl Beach in North Wales, and Durdel Door Beach in Dorset. These beaches tend to welcome dogs year-round or during specific off-season months, giving your pup plenty of space to run, play, and swim.
Is Durdle Door dog friendly?
Yes, Durdle Door in Dorset is a dog-friendly destination. The iconic limestone arch and surrounding cliffs are accessible to dogs, so you and your pup can experience the wonder of this natural landmark together. It's important to keep them on a lead for safety reasons, especially near the water and the cliff edges. Many of the walking trails and beaches in the Durdle Door area are also welcoming to canine visitors.
Should I let my dog swim in the beach?
It's generally safe to let your dog swim in the ocean at the beach, as long as the water conditions are suitable and your pup is a confident swimmer. However, it's important to supervise your pup and be mindful of factors like strong currents, cold temperatures, and other potential hazards. Also, you can research your chosen beach to find out if swimming with your dog here is safe.
Experience new adventures with the best dog friendly holiday ideas in the UK
Whether you're seeking a retreat to the gorgeous coast, a hiking adventure full of new experiences, or a luxurious pup-friendly retreat, there are so many dog friendly holiday ideas in the UK to choose from.
Make sure you consider these great locations and activities, as well as what interests and needs you and your pup have, and you’re guaranteed an unforgettable time away. Research your chosen location to find all the great dog-friendly activities you can enjoy on your break, and remember to look at what great facilities and accommodation options are in store at your chosen holiday park too.
Use our guide to plan the perfect getaway that allows you both to experience new sights, sounds, and adventures together. So why not start planning your next dog friendly holiday in the UK today?