With more and more travellers looking for escapes closer to home, exploring with your canine companion is becoming easier to do. Plus, planning a getaway shouldn’t mean leaving your pet behind. The UK offers an abundance of destinations where both you and your four-legged friend can create memories while seeing all that these beautiful places have to offer.
Whether your pup’s the adventurous type who thrives on mountain trails or prefers leisurely strolls through cobblestone streets, there are destinations to suit all types of explorers. Keep reading to learn more about where to go with your dog for your next adventurous getaway.
City Breaks in Edinburgh
If you’re looking for somewhere that strikes the perfect balance between urban living and outdoor adventure, Edinburgh is the place to be. The Scottish capital welcomes dogs with open arms, making it an ideal destination for those who want culture without leaving their pet behind.
When looking for things to do in Edinburgh with your dog, there are more than enough fantastic places to explore. Arthur’s Seat dominates the city’s skyline, offering one of the most rewarding walks you’ll experience. The extinct volcano provides panoramic views across the city, allowing for an excellent place to get out and active with your pup.
The Royal Mile is another good spot to visit in Edinburgh. It buzzes with activity, and you’ll find plenty of outdoor seating where your dog can people-watch while you soak up the atmosphere. Street performers often draw crowds, allowing for an authentic day out in this lovely city.
Another excellent spot worth checking out in Edinburgh is Holyrood Park. Sprawling across 650 acres right in the city centre, your dog will think they’ve discovered paradise, with countless paths winding to run free away from the bustling city.
With a great selection of dog-friendly cafes and eateries, you’ll also find a ton of amazing spots to rest and unwind after a day of scouring this beautiful part of Scotland with your furry friend.
Seaside Escapes in Cornwall
Cornwall’s coastline stretches for miles, offering endless opportunities for beach adventures with your canine companion. The county also has a relaxed attitude toward dogs, meaning you’ll find welcome mats rolled out throughout fishing villages and other popular tourist spots.
Many beaches here allow dogs year-round, while others have seasonal restrictions, so it’s worth doing your research before your visit. The South West Coast Path winds along dramatic cliffs, providing walks that range from gentle coastal strolls to challenging hikes, catering to all types of walkers and dogs alike.
St. Ives might be famous for its art scene, but dogs seem equally captivated by the town’s winding streets and hidden corners. The harbour area comes alive with fishing boats and seabirds, creating a sensory playground that keeps curious dogs entertained for hours.
It’s also worth scouring the many rock pools scattered along the coastline, allowing for an excellent way to spend your day exploring with your dog. No matter where you decide to go, you’re sure to find an abundance of incredible places to visit that will excite both you and your beloved pet.
If you’re looking for some of the best places to stay in Cornwall, there are a ton of beautiful dog-friendly holiday cottages in Padstow, providing an excellent place to relax and unwind after days brimming with exploration.
Endless Hiking in the Lake District
The Lake District doesn’t just accommodate dogs, it celebrates them. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers terrain that seems designed for canine exploration, from gentle lakeside paths to challenging fell walks that reward effort with breathtaking views.
Windermere is one of the most popular places to visit in the Lakes, with waterfront walks that stretch for miles. There are also some excellent ferry services that welcome dogs, turning simple transportation into part of the adventure.
One of the biggest draws to the Lake District is the impressive amount of fell walking to enjoy here. You’ll be spoilt for choice when looking for a selection of trails, ensuring there’s a ton of things for you to do with your dog. Whether you’re looking for challenging scrambles or gentle strolls, the walking routes are sure to impress even the most avid of adventurers.
After you have seen all that the stunning landscapes have to offer, village pubs throughout the region also embrace the walking culture, welcoming muddy boots and happy dogs alike.
Rolling Hills in the Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales present a gentler alternative to mountain hiking without sacrificing natural beauty. Stone walls crisscross landscapes that roll like green waves, creating a patchwork countryside that feels distinctly English.
Drystone walls define much of the region’s character, and dogs quickly learn to navigate the stiles and gates that punctuate walking routes. These ancient boundaries tell stories of centuries past while providing convenient resting spots during longer walks.
Be sure to spend some time exploring the market towns scattered throughout the Dales during your visit. These beautiful spots maintain their traditional character, with weekly markets that both you and your dog can scour.
There are also some hidden waterfalls throughout the region, a great reward for explorers willing to venture off main paths. With so much to see and do here, you’re sure to find something for all types of travel itineraries, especially those travelling with their dog.
After you have seen all that the beautiful Yorkshire Dales has to offer, you’ll also find an array of excellent accommodation options here. Plus, if you prefer to travel spontaneously, there are some incredible lodges for sale in the Yorkshire Dales, providing a convenient spot for those seeking an easy escape with their four-legged friend.
What Makes a Good Dog-Friendly Holiday Destination?
The best destinations for dog holidays share certain characteristics that go beyond simply allowing pets. They embrace the reality that dogs enhance rather than complicate travel experiences.
Access to outdoor spaces ranks highest on any dog owner’s priority list. Destinations that offer varied terrain, from beaches to forests to mountain paths, keep both dogs and humans engaged throughout their stay. Plus, the ability to exercise properly affects everything from sleep quality to overall holiday satisfaction.
Another thing that makes for an excellent dog-friendly destination is the community attitude. Places where locals greet dogs warmly create relaxed atmospheres that benefit everyone. When residents embrace visiting dogs, it signals a destination that truly understands pet-friendly tourism rather than tolerating it.
It is also important to consider flexibility in accommodation options, dining possibilities, and activity choices. This ensures that holiday plans can adapt to dogs’ needs without compromising human enjoyment.
The most memorable dog holidays happen in places that feel welcoming rather than accommodating. And, when visiting any of the destinations above, both you and your dog are sure to enjoy a unique adventure with a ton of incredible things to do and see.
