Bring your pooch with you on your family getaway this year and discover a whole host of wonderful dog-friendly things to do in Somerset. With an exquisite coastline to see, unique landscapes including wetland and moorland to explore, and many cosy cottages where dogs and their humans can lay their heads, Somerset is the perfect place for a dog-friendly holiday.
From colourful gardens to sandy beaches, charming villages to country inns, there’s a wealth of dog-friendly days out in Somerset – you’ll be spoilt for choice! We’ve put together a list of some of our favourite places to visit and things to do in Somerset with dogs, so you and your canine companion can enjoy a fun-filled getaway to this beautiful part of the UK.
Browse through our dog-friendly cottages in Somerset and find the ideal base for your South West adventure.
Dog-friendly cottages in Somerset
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Dog-friendly pubs in Somerset
During a trip to dog-friendly Somerset, you’ll no doubt need somewhere to dine out that both you and your four-pawed pal will love! Check out these five fantastic places to eat and enjoy a big lunch or delicious dinner while your hound snoozes at your feet.
Prince of Wales, Ham Hill
The family-owned Prince of Wales pub at Ham Hill not only allows dogs in the bar but there are water troughs outside for Rover to have a drink, a hose to clean him off after a countryside walk, and even dog biscuits available at the bar. They serve local produce where possible and their menu includes light bites and pub food with a fancy twist.
The Plough Inn, Taunton
The Plough Inn in Taunton is a fantastic dog-friendly option. It’s rumoured that they even have dog treats behind the bar! Both dog and owner can relax by the fire in the cooler months, while live music and delicious meals keep locals and visitors returning all year round, making the Plough part of a great dog-friendly day out in Somerset.
The Halfway House, Pitney
Another traditional dog-friendly pub with a warm atmosphere, The Halfway House in Pitney was runner up in the Somerset CAMRA Pub of the Year several times over the years so one thing you can be sure of is a good beer! They serve ‘honest, homemade, unfussy’ food, perfect for a post-walk energy boost!
The Bridge Inn, Dulverton
This quaint country pub by the river is a delightful place to stop after walking the wilds of Exmoor National Park with your canine companion by your side. The Bridge Inn has a great selection of food from ‘light bites’ to pies, and there’s a kids' menu so families can ensure everyone in the group is well catered for.
White Horse Inn, Mark
Surrounded by countryside and charming cottages, the White Horse Inn occupies a village location and is a lovely spot to grab food. Dogs are welcome to sit and unwind with you in the bar area, and Burnham-on-Sea is less than 5 miles away if you fancy a walk beside the ocean before dinner. When looking for things to do in Somerset with dogs, beach and beer, this has to be right up there.
Dog-friendly attractions in Somerset
From gardens to railways, there are all kinds of beautiful places to visit for a day out with the dog. Find a wonderful dog-friendly attraction in Somerset that you and the playful pup can enjoy together during your holiday adventures.
West Somerset Railway, Minehead
The more adventurous dog will love a trip on the West Somerset Railway. For a flat rate of £3, dogs are issued their very own ticket, leaving them free to enjoy the beautiful scenery from the comfort of an authentic steam-powered locomotive. The heritage railway stops at various stations en route, including Crowcombe Heathfield, the perfect starting point for a walk in the Quantock Hills, the ancient harbour town of Watchet and historic Dunster Village. Also, try the Avon Valley Railway too, another great dog-friendly attraction in Somerset.
Cheddar Gorge, Cheddar
Cheddar Gorge, one of the most popular days out in Somerset, also has the added benefit of being dog-friendly! Your canine pal is allowed to accompany you into the caves and most of the cafes and shops along the gorge, and the stunning scenery offers plenty of photo opportunities to capture the whole family’s holiday together.
There are many gardens in the county where dogs are permitted, providing fantastic new sniffing territory for the inquisitive pooch. You, too, will enjoy wandering around the beautiful gardens including Hestercombe (see further below) and Fyne Court Estate.
Glastonbury Abbey, Glastonbury
The iconic Glastonbury Abbey should also make it onto your list of dog-friendly days out in Somerset. The resting place of the legendary King Arthur, Glastonbury Abbey enjoys a beautiful setting in 36 acres of parkland. There are a number of events throughout the year, from exhibitions and workshops to concerts and theatre.
Willows & Wetlands Visitor Centre, Taunton
Owned by the Coate family, who have been growing willow on the Somerset Levels since 1819, the Willows & Wetlands Visitor Centre and the surrounding wetland welcome dogs on leads who can discover this wildlife haven alongside their owners. Take a guided tour, stop by the shop or pick up a leaflet for a self-guided walk through the wetlands.
With the variety of landscapes afforded by the Somerset Levels, Quantock and Mendip Hills and beautiful coastline, there are many, many scenic dog-walks. Read our blog post on the top walks in Somerset to find out where you can explore all year round.
Hestercombe Gardens, Taunton
Over 50 acres containing lakes, follies, woodland, formal terraces and breathtaking views await you and your canine companion to explore at Hestercombe Gardens. Dogs are allowed in the gardens, cafe and shop - there’s an art gallery on-site too but dogs can’t venture inside. At this fantastic dog-friendly place in Somerset, you can see a wonderful range of plants from the exotic to classic English varieties in these gardens that have been perfected over the last three centuries.
Dog-friendly beaches in Somerset
There’s nothing quite like a walk on the beach, and Somerset has a few excellent options for your coastal walkies. Let the wind blow through your fur and the salty water lap over your paws with a day at the beach. With pebbly beaches perfect for rock pooling, sandy beaches great for sandcastles, and plenty of beach cafes and ice cream vans where you can grab a tasty treat, you’ll soon find a wonderful dog-friendly place in Somerset for a beach day with your best friend.
Dog-friendly holidays in Somerset
You’ve had a fun-filled day at the beach, roaming the countryside or exploring a local attraction and it's finally time to rest up. So, you’ll need a fantastic holiday cottage to suit you, your canine companion and whoever else has joined you on this Somerset retreat! Our dog-friendly cottages welcome all kinds of pups and boast plenty of wonderful features, from wood burners to gardens, to ensure the whole pack will enjoy a relaxing stay. Dog-friendly Somerset has never been so exciting.
Dog-friendly cottages in Somerset