Dog-friendly winter getaways in the UK

Photo courtesy of @katebewitcheduk

Winter is a wonderful time of year to plan a UK getaway with your four-pawed pals. With cosy dog-friendly pubs, magical frosty landscapes and deserted beaches to enjoy, the scene is set for a memorable getaway.

With the help of beautiful photos sent in via our social media channels, we’ve picked out some of our favourite destinations for dog-friendly winter breaks in the UK. From Scotland’s snow-draped hills and peaks to the chocolate-box villages of the Cotswolds, these enchanting spots are packed with walks, dog-friendly days out and resplendent winter scenery.

Read on for our top picks, and for more inspiration, browse our guide to winter breaks.

Dog-friendly cottages

Dog-friendly winter breaks in England

Top left photo courtesy of @theemmagram

Peak District

The blanket of winter transforms the already beautiful Peak District into a sparkling, frosty kingdom. Take advantage of crisp, clear days to enjoy some of the most stunning dog walks you’ll ever experience. With panoramic views aplenty, it’s the best way to work up an appetite before settling down in front of a roaring fire in one of the Peak District’s plethora of welcoming dog-friendly pubs!

Left photo courtesy of @thomascomp

Lake District

Another of the UK’s national park gems, the Lake District is a place of winter solace. A calmness descends after the crowds of summer, and with snow a tantalising possibility, the area is transformed into a winter wonderland. From walking to whisky tasting, museums to shopping, there is no end of dog-friendly activities to enjoy, all with your faithful friend by your side.

Cotswolds

Like stepping into a world where time has stood still, the gorgeous, picture-postcard villages of the Cotwolds take on an inimitable charm during winter. If you’re looking for dog-friendly winter breaks full of quaint festive markets, warm and welcoming cafes and a packed calendar of winter events, the Cotswolds is for you. Enjoy interesting walks through pretty scenery, and hop from one honey-hued village to the next where a pup-friendly pub lunch is never far away.

Bottom right photo courtesy of @_ryan_kerr

Dartmoor

This rugged and romantic wilderness sprawling across Devon offers no end of walks, whether you’re looking to take on a challenge with your pup, or prefer to keep things short and sweet with a quick stroll in captivating surroundings. Bellever Forest and Parke in Bovey Tracey are top choices for woodland walks, or head up to popular Haytor to stretch your legs and hunt for letterboxes (hidden containers with logbooks) amongst the rocks.

Dog-friendly winter breaks in Scotland

Loch Lomond

Majestic Loch Lomond is a delightful destination for an off-peak break, with dog-friendly cruises around the loch continuing throughout winter. Glide across the lake and admire the surrounding snow-capped mountains before heading off on a lochside walk – the falls of Dochart, pictured, makes for a refreshing winter ramble. Then warm up with a hearty supper at one of the many dog-friendly eateries around the loch. When the days are short, there are dramatic sunsets aplenty, and you may even witness the northern lights if you’re lucky.

Edinburgh

With lots of dog-friendly attractions, eateries and walks, Edinburgh is a top destination for dog-lovers year-round, but in winter, it’s simply magical! Even if you’re not in town during the numerous festive events, there’s much to explore, including walks around Calton Hill, Holyrood Park, and even Portobello Beach. Dog-friendly attractions include Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, Forth Boat Tours, and Edinburgh Bus Tours.

Top left photo courtesy of @_nicolescott

Isle of Skye

Remote and rugged, Skye is a winter destination for true adventurers and their pets. But grit, determination and a hefty suitcase full of thermals will see you reaping the rewards of epic scenery and peaceful solitude. The weather can be notoriously inclement and the days short, but when you can’t get out exploring on foot, it’s the perfect excuse to slow down, unwind and curl up with a good book in front of a roaring fire.

Dog-friendly breaks in Wales

Left photo courtesy of @rosywildlife

Cardiff

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly city break in winter, Cardiff is a top pick. Packed with dog-friendly attractions and plenty of choice for your daily walks, there’s a surprising list of things to do with your dog in this cheerful Welsh city. Cardiff Castle welcomes dogs in all outdoor areas, while Bute Park and Roath Park (pictured) are lovely places to stretch your legs. If retail therapy is on the agenda, dog-friendly Victorian Central Market makes for a lovely shopping experience, and many of the independent shops in the city are happy to welcome well-behaved pups.

Brecon Beacons

Wrap up warm and pull on your walking boots for a dog-friendly winter break in the Brecon Beacons. Explore sights such as the spectacular Henrhyd Waterfall, enjoy picturesque strolls along the River Usk, take in the views from The Blorenge, or challenge yourself to a hike up one of the Beacons’ majestic peaks (weather and safety permitting). Crackling pub fires, fascinating museums and cosy cottages await should the weather take a turn for the worse.

Bottom left photo courtesy of Hayley Cooper

Snowdonia/Eryri

A list of destinations for dog-friendly winter breaks would not be complete without the outdoor adventurer’s mountain paradise of Snowdonia. An idyllic coastline contrasts with snow-capped peaks offering a multitude of options when it comes to walkies with your energetic hound. The pretty, peaceful beaches of the Llyn Peninsula make for a lovely late-afternoon stroll in winter, while inland, the short days allow more time for stargazing in the designated Snowdonia International Dark Sky Reserve.

Book your dog-friendly winter getaway

The thought of curling up in a cosy cottage with your four-legged friend at your feet is all the more inviting when winter rolls around. Warming wood burners, hot tubs, roll-top baths and underfloor heating are amongst the tempting features on offer in some of our dog-friendly holiday homes. So whether you’re looking for snuggly days in or active days out, you’re sure to find your perfect property within our collection.

Dog-friendly cottages