Dogs are very much part of the family, so what would a family holiday be without your four-legged-friend. There’s no need to worry about leaving your pooch behind in kennels or in the care of a relative, our dog-friendly holiday cottages are perfect for accommodating you and your pet.

You can choose from a range of cottages across the country, boasting enclosed gardens and enjoying beautiful locations where your companion will feel right at home. There are such an abundance of places in the UK to discover with your dog, from attractions where they’re welcome too, to gorgeous beaches and picturesque walks which you can all enjoy together.

Bringing the family pet needn’t mean making sacrifices yourself, however. Many of our luxury cottages welcome dogs, and while Rover enjoys his holiday, you can make the most of yours, relaxing in a hot tub, or swimming in your own private pool.

If you’ve got young children too, our family friendly properties, some with games rooms and play areas, will provide all the space you need for a comfortable stay together.

Dog-friendly beaches

Where better to let your dog run around and get rid of some of its pent up energy than on the beach. While some of the more popular ones have seasonal restrictions, there are many other fantastic options which remain dog-friendly year round. A lot of the time you’ll find that the only other living things sharing the beach are other dog walkers and seagulls!

The seaside has something special to offer each season. Wander deserted coves with your four-legged companion in the depths of winter and enjoy the crashing waves and nature at its best before retiring to a dog-friendly café for a hot chocolate. Make the most of those beaches where dogs are only permitted in winter, when the rest of the holidaymakers are snuggled up at home. Summer, of course, lends itself to long clifftop walks, enjoying the views and soaking up the sun before indulging in an ice cream on the beach.

Each region has its own selection of beaches where dog owners can let their pet free for a good game of fetch. Rhossili Bay in Wales, Perranporth in Cornwall and Burnham Beach in Somerset are but a few particularly attractive dog-friendly beaches.

Dog-friendly pubs and attractions

When you’ve had enough fresh air and the dog has sniffed out every new smell there is to find, it’s lovely to be able to have a delicious meal in a dog-friendly pub. Across the country, cosy local establishments are more than happy for your pet to accompany you while you eat. Bridge Inn in Yorkshire, Exmoor Forest Inn in Somerset and Elephants Nest feature among the Good Pub Guide’s favourite dog-friendly UK pubs.

As for dog-friendly attractions; no need for your four-legged friends to feel left out! Many stately homes allow dogs in their grounds to wander around their beautiful gardens. The Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall, Lowther Gardens in Cumbria and The National Arboretum in Gloucestershire are among some of the many places which welcome dogs.

Why just stop at gardens? Trips on the Bodmin & Wenford Railway, West Somerset Railway and North Yorkshire Railway can be enjoyed by you and your furry friend. For the adventurous pooch, there’s always punting with the Norwich Punting Company!

Whatever itinerary you and your dog follow on your holiday, you’re sure to enjoy the fresh air, beautiful scenery and wonderful attractions on offer in the UK. When you return home, Pooch will have plenty of stories to make the neighbourhood dogs jealous of his great cottage break!

Take a look at our dog-friendly cottages to find your perfect home-away-from-home.