The 8 Best Dog-Friendly Staycation Spots in the UK

So, according to cottages.com, they get a whopping 21,000 monthly searches for “dog-friendly cottages”, and that got me thinking...

Since the whole pandemic thingy turned our travel habits upside down, staycations have become the go-to getaway for so many of us. We’ve gotten used to swapping airport queues for countryside views, and honestly, we’re not too mad about it. One of the main reasons is because we can bring our dogs with us!

That means no more puppy-dog eyes as you pack the car or confusing vaccination forms for those wanting to travel with their pup into Europe. Instead, sticking in your home country means you can take your four-legged bestie along for the ride almost effortlessly.

As someone who travels a lot with my own pup, Milo, who, by the way, is now basically a connoisseur of dog-friendly travel, it really got me thinking. Some places in the UK are just better when it comes to dogs. And if you're going to take a dog-friendly staycation, why not do it properly?

So, I’ve rounded up mine and Milo’s absolute favourite UK spots. These are places that tick all the boxes: epic walking trails, dog-friendly beaches, cosy pubs that welcome wagging tails, and of course, comfy dog-friendly cottages where your pup is treated like part of the fam.

So, whether you're planning a short but sweet weekend escape or a full-on week or fortnight of adventure, these are the dog-friendly staycation spots in the UK that Milo and I have tried, tested and loved. And hopefully that also means you and your dog will love them too!

The Cotswolds is one of my favourite places I’ve ever visited with Milo. There is so much to do that’s dog friendly, but it’s also calm, scenic and relatively easy to get to, no matter where you are in the country. It’s ideal for a dog-friendly staycation, especially if you want countryside vibes without going completely off-grid.

There are endless walking options, many of them gently rolling and stile-free, which is great if your dog prefers a proper roam without being constantly on the lead. We spent a good chunk of time exploring the Farncombe Estate near Broadway. Here there’s 500 acres of open meadow, woodland, and proper way-marked trails.

One of my favourite days of the entire was our visit to Cotswold Wildlife Park. Yep, it’s a zoo where dogs are allowed (on lead, of course). Milo was honestly transfixed by the giraffes and penguins. It’s not often you get to bring your dog somewhere like that and it really was worth the trip just for that.

If you’re visiting in the summer, the Cotswold Lavender fields are also worth a stop. Dogs are welcome on leads, and it’s a lovely place for a slow wander and a picnic. Basically, if you want a relaxed, easy-going dog-friendly staycation with great food, walks and views, this one’s a winner.

The Lake District is probably an obvious one, but it has to be mentioned, otherwise I’d feel blasphemous. This whole region is practically made for dogs with its wide-open space, hiking trails and fresh air that smells like trees and sheep.

We based ourselves near Windermere and took one of the Windermere Lake Cruises on one day and yes, dogs are totally welcome on board. Honestly, it was such a good shout. There’s something about being on the water with your pup by your side that feels so special. Milo loved it, although I think he would have preferred to have been in the water, rather than on it!

We also explored Lowther Castle and Gardens since again, dogs are welcome on leads through the grounds, and it’s a great way to take in the scenery and soak up a bit of local history. This is another dog-friendly staycation worth your consideration, especially if you like lots of big walks with epic views.

When it comes to a dog-friendly staycation, Whitby ticks way more boxes than I first anticipated. The town centre especially is surprisingly welcoming for dogs, which isn’t something you can say often about a town, with loads of shops, pubs and cafés offering water bowls and head scratches to our family’s pups. And it’s not just the town either, the surrounding area is just as accommodating.

Some of our favourite moments were simply spent wandering through Whitby’s narrow streets, heading up the famous 199 steps to the Abbey and beach-hopping our way along the coast. We checked out Whitby Beach and Robin Hood’s Bay, but the real standout for us was Sandsend. It always has been, and probably always will be, one of the best dog-friendly beaches I’ve ever been to (hence why it was included in this blog!). It has stretches of sand, barely any crowds, and a really peaceful atmosphere.

One thing we didn’t get to do last time, but is 100% on my list for next time, is the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Well-behaved dogs are welcome for just £3 a day, and I can’t think of a better way to take in the scenery than on a steam train with your dog at your feet, or probably in Milo’s case, with his head sticking out the window.

I’m a little biased with this one since I grew up in the Peak District, but having grown up there with dogs my whole life, I can confidently say it’s one of the most beautiful dog-friendly staycation spots ever.

There’s something about the mix of dramatic hills, peaceful valleys, and welcoming little towns that makes it perfect for exploring with your dog. Places like Matlock Bath are always a favourite, although it can be busy on the weekends, but it’s worth visiting in the week just to experience the riverside walks and world-famous chip shops.

Nearby, Cromford and Bonsall are two of those hidden gem villages that feel like a step back in time. Loads of footpaths wind out from the villages themselves, and the local tea rooms and pubs welcome dogs like regulars.

Further north, you’ve got Bakewell (yes, the tart is worth absolutely it), Castleton, and the grounds of Chatsworth House which again are all totally worth the detour. Chatsworth in particular is great for dogs on lead, with miles of open space and riverside walks that are just as enjoyable for humans.

I’ll admit, there’s probably too much to cram into one trip, but I guess that just gives you an excuse to plan a few more dog-friendly staycations to the Peaks in the future.

Another dog-friendly staycation spot Milo loved, mainly because of the endless number of dog-friendly beaches on offer, was the Norfolk Coast. For me, the best place to visit in the area with your pup is Holkham Beach. We visited it several times during our two-week holiday. It’s absolutely massive, with more than enough space for your dog to run wild without bothering anyone.

Afterwards, we wandered over to Holkham Hall for a slower-paced explore since dogs are welcome on the grounds and parkland, and it's such a lovely spot to stroll through post-beach madness.

Nearby Wells-next-the-Sea is also worth a visit for its nice walks, a cheerful harbour, and plenty of dog-friendly cafés and pubs where your dog is more than welcome to crash while you grab a bite. We also ventured a little inland for a boat trip with Broads Tours. They run cruises along the Norfolk Broads, and dogs are welcome aboard.

This probably feels like another obvious one, especially for dog owners, but that’s exactly why I’m including it on this list. Cornwall is another dog-friendly staycation spot in the UK that has so much for us and our pups. There are more beaches, scenic hikes, cosy pubs, and a chilled-out vibe that makes you feel like you’re on holiday the second you arrive.

You’ve got the entire South West Coast Path at your feet which is 630 miles of way-marked trails, dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and sea air that’ll have your dog absolutely buzzing. We spent a dreamy afternoon at Watergate Bay, where dogs can run lead-free all year round. Milo was straight in the sea within minutes, surprise, surprise.

We also made a stop at the Eden Project. While dogs aren’t allowed inside the domes (which is fair enough), they are welcome around the gardens, trails, and picnic areas on a lead. It’s still well worth visiting, even just to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery.

Another highlight was exploring the ruins of Tintagel Castle which has more stunning views of the coastline and loads of space to wander with your dog. It’s worth noting though that there are steep paths, so maybe not so ideal for older dogs.

I know this is a huge area, but if you’ve got the time, the Scottish Highlands are so worth exploring, as much of it as you possibly can. It’s honestly one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever been to, and a dream come true for any kind of dog-friendly staycation.

There’s a real sense of freedom up there. Between the lochs, mountains, and endless glens, you’re surrounded by nature in its rawest, most beautiful form. Thanks to Scotland’s right-to-roam laws, you and your dog can go almost anywhere, as long as you’re respectful of livestock and wildlife.

One of our favourite walks was around Loch an Eilein in the Cairngorms. It’s a super easy loop through ancient pine forest with peaceful water views and plenty of good sniff spots for Milo. The Old Logging Way is also perfect if you’re after a gentle but scenic cycle or walk, and the local cafés and inns in the area really embrace dog owners. Scotland is definitely another dog-friendly staycation spot I want to return to and explore further.

And finally, Suffolk might not be the first place that pops into your head for a dog-friendly staycation, but it really should be. With rivers, lakes, and over 50 miles of heritage coastline, it’s an absolute playground for dogs who love to swim and explore.

One of our favourite spots has to be Felixstowe. This stretch of shingle beach is perfect for walks with a cool backdrop of massive container ships passing by.Just be aware there are summer restrictions on some beaches, but from October to April, it’s wide open for your pup to explore as they want!

If you’re visiting during summer, beaches like Southwold, Sizewell, and Walberswick beaches welcome dogs all year round, so there’s plenty of space to run free. And for a real treat, head to Dunwich National Trust site. It’s a bit of a hidden gem with beautiful heather blooms, breakers to paddle in, and even a tearoom with dog-friendly refreshments.

So, there you have it, eight incredible dog-friendly staycation spots that prove just how lucky we are to call the UK home. From the dramatic cliffs of Cornwall to the peaceful lochs of the Scottish Highlands, there’s no shortage of beautiful places to explore with your four-legged buddy. Our pups bring us so much joy at home, so why shouldn’t they get to experience a holiday with us every now and then.

And before you head off on your next adventure, don’t forget to pack properly for your dog! At WOOOF, we’ve got everything your pup needs for your dog-friendly staycation. We’ve got smart new collars, harnesses and leads, delicious high-value dog treats for road trip rewards, enrichment toys to keep them happy when it’s too hot or cold for hikes, and all the essentials like eco-friendly poo bags and a pet first aid kit.

Wherever your next dog-friendly staycation takes you, WOOOF is here to make sure your dog is prepped, pampered and properly packed!

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