TRAVEL-GUIDES

Best dog-friendly staycations in the UK

4th October 2023
If you’re packing up the pooch and heading out for a staycation on these beautiful isles, then you’ll want to ensure you go somewhere that the whole group is going to love, including your furry friend. That’s why we’ve taken time to put together a list of some of our favourite dog-friendly holiday spots in the UK.
Photo by Belinda Fewings on Unsplash.

North Cornwall

Cornwall as a whole is a pretty perfect place to take dogs. But today we thought we’d focus on North Cornwall, and the many dog-friendly beaches it has to offer. This charming, windswept part of the UK has craggy coastlines and big, sprawling sandy beaches where your dogs can run to their heart’s content.

Rock is one of our favourite dog-friendly beaches in North Cornwall. Particularly great during low tide, when it links up with neighbouring Daymer Bay, Rock Beach is a giant stretch of sand backed by mountainous dunes where your pooch can run off and explore. Busy with other dog walkers in summer, come the off-season, you might just get a huge expanse to yourselves. Rock is also close to the amazing village of Padstow (pictured), which is home to a quaint harbour and some delightful places to eat and drink.

Another great dog-friendly beach in this part of Cornwall is Northcott Mouth, which is close to the popular Bude (Bude operates a dog ban during high season). Northcott Mouth is a National Trust owned beach that is peaceful and quiet and at times can feel like a secret cove thanks to its towering cliffs.

Other great dog-friendly beaches in North Cornwall include Porthilly Beach, Daymer Bay, Port Gaverne Beach, and Crantock Beach.

You may also wish to head inland and visit the dramatic scenery of Bodmin Moor. One of Cornwall’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Bodmin Moor is a stretch of remote granite moorland that is still grazed by moorland ponies. Dogs will love the giant, expansive space and the many walking trails, however, it is worth noting that by law, dogs must be kept on a short, fixed lead (no more than two metres long) between 1st March and 31st July. You should also keep them on a lead if you go near any livestock or wild animals.

Dog-friendly policies and local travel tips in North Cornwall

  • Many beaches allow dogs year-round, but some have seasonal restrictions (summer bans during peak hours – always check local signage).
  • On the South West Coast Path and cliff routes, keep dogs on a lead for safety (livestock, cliffs, nesting birds).
  • North Cornwall holiday cottages often advertise pet-friendly features such as enclosed gardens and easy trail access.
  • Popular attractions like Tintagel Castle permit dogs on leads in most outdoor areas, but always check ahead for restrictions.

Coastal walks and scenic headlands

  • Pentire Headland: Circular 5.5 km route with panoramic cliff views and heritage landmarks.
  • Watergate Bay to Newquay: ~6.4 km stretch along the South West Coast Path with dog-friendly beach access.
  • Tintagel to Boscastle Coast Path: Dramatic cliffside walk past Tintagel Castle, with spectacular sea views; keep dogs on leads near steep drops.
  • Bedruthan Steps (Mawgan Porth area): Famous clifftop views and rugged headland trails; seasonal dog restrictions on the beach below but excellent cliff walks.

Dog-friendly beaches and bays

  • Daymer Bay: Sandy beach with dogs allowed all year, near Rock and the Betjeman Walk.
  • Sandymouth Beach (Bude): Long sandy stretch with facilities, good for energetic dogs.
  • Polzeath (out of summer season): Very popular surf beach, with seasonal dog restrictions (allowed October–May).
  • Crackington Haven: Small, scenic bay backed by cliffs; dogs allowed out of peak summer season, with cliff paths leading onto the South West Coast Path.

Trails & Easy Routes

  • Camel Trail (Padstow–Wadebridge–Bodmin): Flat, multi-use path ideal for dog walks and cycling.
  • Sir John Betjeman Walk: 7.4 km loop with estuary views and historic St Enodoc Church.
  • St Nectan’s Glen (near Tintagel): Woodland walk to a waterfall, with shaded paths perfect for dogs on warmer days.
  • Bodmin Moor Trails: Open moorland with ancient stone circles and wide paths; ideal for adventurous dogs that enjoy longer walks.

Getting to North Cornwall

  • By Car: From London or the South East, take the M4 or M3 to the M5, then join the A30 into Cornwall. Journey time ~4–5 hours from London.
  • By Train: Direct services to Bodmin Parkway from London Paddington (approx. 4 hours); connections by bus or car hire into North Cornwall towns and villages.
  • By Air: Cornwall Airport Newquay has flights from major UK cities; car hire and local buses/taxis available at the airport.
  • By Coach: National Express and Megabus run routes to Bodmin, Wadebridge, and Newquay.
  • Travel Tip: Roads can be narrow and busy in summer — plan extra time if visiting with dogs and luggage.

Dog friendly Coolstays in North Cornwall
Photo by Neil Mark Thomas on Unsplash.

Anglesey

Anglesey is a beautiful island in North Wales that is connected to the mainland by a pair of bridges that cross the Menai Strait. The island is a real haven for dog owners, with 130 miles of beautiful coastline that has a footpath spanning its entire length. With some of Wales’s most eye catching scenery, Anglesey offers sweeping countryside, lovely beaches and views across the water to the spectacular Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park.

Rhosneigr is a picturesque village on the island’s east coast and has three fantastic stretches of beach. Traeth Llydan (Broad Beach) is one of the two main beaches and sits to the east of the village. It might be smaller than the nearby Treath Crigyll, but it still reaches over a mile long and is a truly fabulous stretch of golden sand, with rocky outcrops and low sand dunes. The beach is also popular for watersports, such as surfing, swimming, and kayaking, so there’s plenty for you to do as well as your canine companion.

If you’re visiting Anglesey, then you’ll want to make the trip to Beaumaris Castle, which is famous as the greatest castle that was never built. Not quite finished, this stunning, ancient ruin was the last of the royal strongholds created by Edward I in Wales. Explore the beautiful grounds with your dog in tow, who is even welcome on the ground floor levels of the site if on a lead.

Other great dog-friendly days out on Anglesey include the wonderful Newborough Forest, the uninhabited Puffin Island, and the beautiful beaches of Red Wharf Bay, Rhoscolyn Bay, and Cemlyn Bay.

Dogs are also welcome in one of the island’s best seafood restaurants, The Oystercatcher. Sitting behind the dunes of Traeth Llydan near Rhosneigr, dogs are welcome inside and on the fabulous outdoor terrace.

Dog-Friendly Policies & Local Travel Tips in Anglesey

  • Many beaches in Anglesey are dog-friendly year-round, though some apply seasonal restrictions (usually May–September on main family beaches). Always check local signage.
  • Dogs should be kept on leads near cliffs, farmland, and bird nesting areas, especially around coastal reserves like South Stack.
  • Anglesey has a wide choice of dog-friendly holiday cottages with enclosed gardens, and several pubs and cafés welcome dogs inside.
  • National Trust sites such as Plas Newydd House & Gardens often allow dogs in outdoor grounds and woodland walks (on leads).

Coastal Walks & Scenic Headlands

  • South Stack Cliffs (Holyhead): Dramatic coastal paths with views of the lighthouse; dogs on leads recommended due to steep drops and nesting seabirds.
  • Llanddwyn Island (Newborough): Iconic coastal walk through dunes and pine forest leading to tidal island views — very dog-friendly and photogenic.
  • Cemaes Bay to Llanbadrig Church: Scenic headland walk past one of Wales’s oldest churches with panoramic sea views.
  • Porth Wen Brickworks (near Amlwch): Atmospheric coastal ruins with rugged cliffside paths — best for adventurous walkers with steady dogs.

Dog-Friendly Beaches & Bays

  • Red Wharf Bay: Huge tidal beach (5 miles long) where dogs can roam freely year-round.
  • Traeth Lligwy: Sandy beach near Moelfre with good parking and year-round dog access.
  • Trearddur Bay: Popular beach with seasonal restrictions, but smaller coves nearby allow dogs all year.
  • Rhosneigr Beach: Wide sandy bay with seasonal summer dog bans on certain sections, but dog-friendly areas nearby.

Trails & Easy Routes

  • Anglesey Coastal Path: 130-mile trail circumnavigating the island, with shorter, accessible sections perfect for day walks.
  • Newborough Forest Trails: Shaded woodland paths leading to dunes and beaches — excellent for dogs needing cooler routes.
  • Holyhead Mountain Walk: Moderate loop with sea views, ancient hut circles, and rugged landscapes.
  • Malltraeth Marsh Walk: Flat wetland and estuary path, great for birdwatching and calm dog walks.

Getting to Anglesey

  • By Car: Easily reached via the A55 North Wales Expressway, crossing the Menai Suspension Bridge or Britannia Bridge from mainland Wales.
  • By Train: Direct services to Holyhead from London Euston (~4 hours) via Chester and Bangor; local stations connect to island towns.
  • By Air: Nearest airports are Liverpool John Lennon (~2 hours’ drive) and Manchester (~2.5 hours).
  • By Coach: National Express and Megabus routes run to Bangor and Holyhead with onward local bus services.
  • Travel Tip: Coastal car parks can fill quickly in summer — arrive early, especially at Llanddwyn and Trearddur Bay.

Dog-friendly Coolstays in Anglesey
Photo by Phil Hearing on Unsplash.

North Norfolk

The Times recently named North Norfolk as "one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth". Now, that’s very high praise indeed, but seeing as this gorgeous part of the UK is home to incredible coastlines, miles of beaches and an astounding hinterland of rolling countryside, it’s pretty accurate. North Norfolk is also a bird watcher’s delight, being a great place to spot millions of overwintering bird species, with hotspots at Salthouse and Blakeney.

But it’s not just twitchers who will love it. Dog owners should also consider North Norfolk for their next staycation. We’ve already mentioned the spectacular coastlines on offer, and dog owners will love both Holkham Beach and Wells-next-the-Sea, which are often considered by many to be two of the best beaches the UK has to offer. Dogs are welcome on Holkham all year round, however, from 1st April to 31st August, there is a dogs-on-leads policy in the most vulnerable areas of the beach. This still leaves over 70% open to walking off lead under close control. Wells-next-the-Sea is also dog-friendly (there’s a small section that is dog-free) and the fab Wells Beach Café is a fantastic, dog-friendly spot to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat.

The wider Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is an outstanding mix of tidal marshes, creeks and fabulous pine woods, meaning you can head ever-so-slightly inland and explore a lot of beautiful and varied scenery.

Dog-Friendly Policies & Local Travel Tips in North Norfolk

  • Many beaches in North Norfolk are dog-friendly, but seasonal restrictions often apply on busy sections (usually May–September). Always check beach signage.
  • Dogs should be kept on leads near Nature Reserves, Salt Marshes, and Bird Nesting Areas, especially at Holkham and Blakeney.
  • The area has many Dog-Friendly Pubs, Cafés, and Cottages, often with enclosed gardens and access to trails.
  • National Trust estates like Felbrigg Hall and Blickling Estate allow dogs in Parklands and Designated Areas (on leads).

Coastal Walks & Scenic Headlands

  • Blakeney Point: Coastal Spit with wide views and wildlife; dogs allowed on the main path but restrictions apply near Seal Colonies.
  • Sheringham to Cromer Clifftop Walk: Part of the Norfolk Coast Path with Sea Views, Beaches below, and easy access to Towns.
  • Hunstanton Cliffs: Dramatic Red and White Striped Cliffs with Coastal Paths; best explored at Low Tide with dogs.
  • Overstrand to Mundesley: Quieter Cliff-Top Path with Beaches below, good for longer walks.

Dog-Friendly Beaches & Bays

  • Holkham Beach: Vast Sandy Beach backed by Pinewoods, Dog-Friendly all year (though leads may be required near Nesting Birds).
  • Wells-next-the-Sea: Sandy Beach with Colourful Huts; Dog-Friendly Zones marked clearly.
  • Sea Palling: Wide Sandy Bay with Seasonal Restrictions in Swimming Areas, but Year-Round Dog Zones nearby.
  • Brancaster Beach: Long Sandy Beach with Dunes; Dogs welcome but must be under control around Wildlife.

Trails & Easy Routes

  • Norfolk Coast Path: Stretches across the North Norfolk Coast; Flat and Well-Marked, perfect for Long Walks with dogs.
  • Sheringham Park (National Trust): Landscaped Parkland with Woodland Trails, Waymarked Routes, and Sea Views.
  • The Peddars Way: Historic Roman Road Trail linking Inland to the Coast, with Gentle Gradients suitable for dogs.
  • Holkham Park Trails: Woodland and Lake Walks within the Holkham Estate, with Dog-Friendly Café Stops.

Getting to North Norfolk

  • By Car: From London, take the M11 or A11 to Norwich, then A140/A149 into North Norfolk. Approx. 3 Hours’ Drive.
  • By Train: Greater Anglia Services run to Norwich, with onward connections to Sheringham and Cromer on the Bittern Line.
  • By Air: Nearest Airport is Norwich International (~45 Minutes’ Drive). Stansted and Luton are larger options ~2.5 Hours away.
  • By Coach: National Express runs Routes to Norwich, with Local Buses to Coastal Towns.
  • Travel Tip: Coastal Car Parks fill quickly in Summer — Arrive Early, especially at Holkham and Wells.

Dog friendly Coolstays in North Norfolk.
HappenOak Treehouse

HappenOak Treehouse

Balsham - Cambridgeshire

Sleeps 2

A luxurious and romantic treehouse for two with an outdoor bath, Finnish-style sauna and views across the Cambridgeshire countryside.

Photo by Ivy Barn on Unsplash.

The Cotswolds

What is there to say about The Cotswolds that hasn’t already been said? Glorious countryside stretches out across almost 800 square miles, featuring ancient woods, picturesque lakes and sprawling hills, and dogs will love all of it.

You can bring your canine companions with you and stroll amidst this marvellous scenery or head into a historic town or quaint village for a pint in a cosy, dog-friendly pub as your pooch stretches out on the carpet in front of a log burning fireplace. Picture-postcard high streets are aplenty in The Cotswolds, so be sure to head into the towns and villages and experience the independent shops, cracking pubs, and lovely restaurants on offer.

When it comes to filling your days, dog-friendly attractions in The Cotswolds include the magnificent Blenheim Palace, the beautiful Batsford Arboretum, and the marvellous Broadway Tower.

Dog-Friendly Policies & Local Travel Tips in the Cotswolds

  • The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers rolling hills, villages, and trails that are very dog-friendly.
  • Dogs should be kept on leads near Livestock, Farmland, and Nature Reserves, especially in lambing season.
  • Many Dog-Friendly Inns, Pubs, and Cottages across villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Broadway welcome pets.
  • National Trust estates like Hidcote Gardens and Snowshill Manor allow dogs in designated outdoor areas and parklands.

Scenic Walks & Countryside Routes

  • Cotswold Way National Trail: 102-Mile long-distance path, with day sections ideal for shorter walks with dogs.
  • Broadway Tower and Surrounding Hills: Iconic folly with trails and panoramic views across the Severn Vale.
  • Winchcombe to Belas Knap: Circular route to a Neolithic long barrow, with countryside paths and open fields.
  • Sudeley Castle Grounds: Historic estate walks where dogs on leads are welcome in gardens and parklands.

Dog-Friendly Parks & Open Spaces

  • Cleeve Hill: The highest point in the Cotswolds, with open grassland and wide views; popular with dog walkers.
  • Minchinhampton Common: Open common land grazed by cattle, with criss-crossing trails; dogs under control required.
  • Batsford Arboretum: Woodland and seasonal gardens that welcome dogs on leads.
  • Rodborough Common: Expansive chalk grassland with wildflowers and grazing, ideal for walking.

Trails & Easy Routes

  • Slaughters Country Walk (Upper to Lower Slaughter): Easy riverside path connecting two of the prettiest Cotswold villages.
  • Bourton-on-the-Water Circular Walk: Gentle route along the River Windrush with dog-friendly pubs and cafés.
  • Painswick Beacon Walk: Moderate hill route with views and ancient hillfort earthworks.
  • Chipping Campden Circular Trail: Market town walk with historic architecture and countryside scenery.

Getting to the Cotswolds

  • By Car: Accessible from London via the M40 and A40, or from Bristol and Birmingham via the M5. Approx. 2 Hours’ Drive from London.
  • By Train: Direct Services from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh (~1.5 Hours), with onward bus and taxi links.
  • By Air: Nearest Airports are Birmingham (~1 Hour’s Drive) and Bristol (~1.5 Hours’ Drive).
  • By Coach: National Express operates services to Cheltenham, Cirencester, and Stratford-upon-Avon with local bus connections.
  • Travel Tip: Village car parks can be small and fill quickly in summer — Arrive Early or use park-and-ride options where available.

Dog friendly Coolstays in The Cotswolds.
Photo by Brent Jenkins on Unsplash.

The Chiltern Hills

The Chiltern Hills is a true gem that’s just a short hop from London. This relatively undiscovered Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is home to some quintessentially British countryside that offers something for everyone - including your dog!

Explore winding pathways that take you through hidden villages, chalk hillsides, flower-filled woodlands, and pretty rivers, all with your dog by your side.

Dog lovers will adore the Chess Valley, which offers delightful walks along the banks of the river Chess. This pretty chalk stream offers clear shallow waters where your dog can cool off in the summer sunshine as you wander the 10-mile Chess Valley Walk trail that mostly follows the river.

With spectacular views across the Oxfordshire Vale, the Aston Rowant National Nature Reserve is another great day out for you and your dog. Home to some easy access trails you can explore woods and downland at your own pace, or venture off the beaten track and be treated with some delightfully peaceful spots where red kites circle overhead.

Dog-Friendly Policies & Local Travel Tips in the Chiltern Hills

  • The Chiltern Hills are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) with many trails, woodlands, and commons where dogs are welcome.
  • Dogs should be kept on leads near Livestock, Farmland, and Wildlife Areas, especially during lambing season and ground-nesting bird season.
  • Many Dog-Friendly Pubs, Country Inns, and Cottages can be found in villages across the region.
  • National Trust sites such as Ashridge Estate and Hughenden Manor allow dogs in Parklands and Designated Walking Areas.

Scenic Walks & Countryside Trails

  • Ashridge Estate: Ancient Woodlands and rolling landscapes, with waymarked trails suitable for dogs on leads.
  • Coombe Hill: Panoramic Views over the Vale of Aylesbury, with open grassland and woodland walks.
  • Chiltern Way Circular Walk: Long-distance trail covering 134 Miles, with shorter sections ideal for day walks.
  • Ivinghoe Beacon: Chalk Hill summit with sweeping views; dogs should be on leads due to wildlife and steep slopes.

Dog-Friendly Parks & Open Spaces

  • Wendover Woods: Forestry England site with multiple trails, picnic areas, and a dedicated dog exercise field.
  • Hughenden Park: Historic parkland linked to Hughenden Manor, with formal gardens and open meadows.
  • Tring Park: Open grassland and woodland managed by the Woodland Trust, with dog-friendly paths.
  • Cholesbury Common: Historic common land offering wide open spaces and connecting trails.

Trails & Easy Routes

  • Ridgeway National Trail: Ancient pathway stretching 87 Miles, with sections across the Chilterns ideal for moderate dog walks.
  • Ashridge Bluebell Walk (seasonal): Woodland trails showcasing bluebell carpets in spring; dogs on leads recommended.
  • Grand Union Canal Towpath (Berkhamsted–Tring): Flat, easy path along the canal with dog-friendly pubs en route.
  • Hambleden Valley Walks: Gentle trails through farmland, woodland, and villages, popular for shorter strolls.

Getting to the Chiltern Hills

  • By Car: Easily reached from London via the M40, M1, and A41, with multiple car parks at National Trust sites and trailheads. Approx. 1–1.5 Hours’ Drive from Central London.
  • By Train: Direct Services from London Marylebone to Great Missenden, Wendover, and Princes Risborough; London Euston to Tring and Berkhamsted.
  • By Air: Nearest Airports are London Heathrow (~40 Minutes’ Drive) and London Luton (~30 Minutes’ Drive).
  • By Coach: National Express and local services run to High Wycombe, Hemel Hempstead, and Aylesbury with onward bus links.
  • Travel Tip: Popular car parks at Ashridge Estate and Coombe Hill can fill quickly on weekends — Arrive Early to secure a spot.

Dog friendly Coolstays in The Chilterns.
Photo by George Bannister on Unsplash.

The Lake District

The Lake District features in so many of these lists. The UK’s largest National Park and World Heritage Site, the Lake District, in Cumbria, is not only home to England’s highest mountain and deepest lake, but it’s also a walking, hiking, and dog owner’s paradise. Add to this thriving communities and beautiful market towns and you’ve got one of this nation’s best holiday destinations.

If you’re looking to take the dog for a scenic walk you should consider the route that takes you around the shoreline of Derwentwater, a lake close to the fantastic town of Keswick. The 10 mile route takes you on a beautiful circuit of the lake.

If you want to take in sweeping views then you should also consider heading up Dodd Fell, one of the Lake District’s highest fells. The walk takes you and your canine companion through the enchanting Dodd Wood, which is home to some wonderful red squirrels and an array of other wildlife. The walk can be challenging at points, though the path is nice and easy to follow and offers spectacular views of Derwentwater, Bassenthwaite, and the surrounding countryside.

Other lovely days out in the Lake District for dog owners include the fantastic dog-friendly Windermere lake cruise, the Lingholm Estate, Lowther Castle, and the The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Steam Railway.

Dog-Friendly Policies & Local Travel Tips in the Lake District

  • The Lake District National Park is very dog-friendly, with many trails, lakeshores, and fells open to walkers with pets.
  • Dogs should be kept on leads near Livestock, Farmland, and Wildlife Areas, particularly during lambing season and in nature reserves.
  • Many Dog-Friendly Cottages, Inns, and Pubs across towns such as Keswick, Ambleside, and Windermere welcome pets.
  • National Trust properties like Sizergh Castle and Fell Foot Park allow dogs in outdoor areas and on designated walks.

Scenic Walks & Fell Routes

  • Catbells (near Keswick): Popular half-day fell walk with panoramic views of Derwentwater; moderate climb, dog-friendly with care on steep sections.
  • Helm Crag (Grasmere): Iconic summit known as “The Lion and the Lamb,” with a shorter but steep ascent.
  • Orrest Head (Windermere): Gentle walk with rewarding lake views; ideal for families with dogs.
  • Tarn Hows (Coniston area): Circular woodland and lakeside trail, flat and accessible, with year-round dog access.

Dog-Friendly Lakes & Shores

  • Derwentwater: Lakeside paths, beaches, and boat launches; Keswick is known as one of the UK’s most dog-friendly towns.
  • Coniston Water: Woodland walks and lakeside trails, with dog-friendly cafés and pubs nearby.
  • Ullswater: Popular for boat cruises that welcome dogs on board, plus scenic shoreline trails.
  • Windermere West Shore: Quieter side of England’s largest lake, with woodland walks and access to dog-friendly pubs.

Trails & Easy Routes

  • Keswick Railway Path: Flat, multi-use trail from Keswick to Threlkeld, ideal for easy walks with dogs.
  • Grizedale Forest Trails: Waymarked woodland routes with varied lengths, sculptures along the way, and plenty of shade.
  • Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge Walk: Riverside path through meadows and woodland with a dog-friendly pub at the end.
  • Borrowdale Valley Walks: Gentle trails through ancient woodland and alongside rivers, suitable for less strenuous outings.

Getting to the Lake District

  • By Car: Access via the M6 motorway, with main entry points at Penrith (Junction 40) and Kendal (Junction 36). Travel times are approx. 5 Hours from London, 2 Hours from Manchester.
  • By Train: Mainline Services to Oxenholme Lake District from London Euston (~3 Hours), with connections to Windermere, Kendal, and Penrith.
  • By Air: Nearest Airports are Manchester (~1.5–2 Hours’ Drive) and Newcastle (~2 Hours’ Drive).
  • By Coach: National Express and Megabus routes run to Kendal, Windermere, and Keswick with onward local buses.
  • Travel Tip: Car parks in popular spots such as Keswick, Ambleside, and Windermere fill quickly in peak season — Arrive Early or use park-and-ride services.

Dog friendly Coolstays in the Lake District.
Photo by Connor Mollison on Unsplash.

The Scottish Highlands

Rugged, spectacular walks are aplenty in The Highlands. We’d argue that not even the majesty of the Lake District can compete with this outstanding, inspiring place nestled in the very north of the British Isles. And if you do venture up into the Highlands with your pooch, then you’ll not be left wanting.

The Highlands is home to the incredible Cairngorms National Park with its high peaks and sprawling mountain range, as well as some marvellous islands, and a number of scenic lochs, including the world famous Loch Ness. And if it’s walks you want, The Highlands has lots to offer.

Why not climb Ben Macdui, the second highest mountain in Britain? You can approach the mountain from Speyside, crossing the vast Cairngorm plateau. This walk will take you through a rolling arctic wilderness that might require some good navigating on your part, but it’s certainly well worth the effort.

You may also wish to try the trail to the Fyrish Monument that takes you through pine woods offering wonderful views of the Cromarty Firth area. This outback trail is near Alness and can be challenging, but is yet again worth the exertion.

If grand, spectacular bodies of water are your thing, then be sure to take your pooch with you to Loch Morlich. Enjoy a coastal stroll to the highest beach in the UK, which is home to some truly memorable walks along an award-winning beach.

Finally, Glen Affric offers one of the northern Highland’s most outstanding walks through a peaceful, rural haven. Add to this the fact that it takes you past Plodda Falls, a high waterfall that’s a true sight to behold, and you’ve got a great day out for the whole family.

Dog-Friendly Policies & Local Travel Tips in the Scottish Highlands

  • The Scottish Highlands offer vast open landscapes where dogs are welcome, including lochs, glens, and mountains.
  • Dogs should be kept on leads near Sheep, Deer, and Ground-Nesting Birds, especially during spring and summer.
  • Many Dog-Friendly Hotels, Lodges, and Cottages across towns such as Fort William, Inverness, and Aviemore cater to pets.
  • National Trust for Scotland sites and Forestry Scotland trails generally allow dogs, with guidance to keep them under close control.

Scenic Walks & Highland Routes

  • Ben Nevis (Fort William): The UK’s highest mountain; challenging ascent where dogs need stamina and care on rocky sections.
  • Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail: Famous Harry Potter filming location, with a gentle walk and dog-friendly views of the viaduct.
  • Loch an Eilein (Cairngorms): Circular forest trail around a loch with a castle ruin; flat and ideal for dogs.
  • Quiraing (Isle of Skye): Dramatic rock formations and ridge paths; spectacular but requires leads due to steep drops.

Dog-Friendly Lochs & Shores

  • Loch Ness: Trails around the loch, castle views at Urquhart, and boat trips that welcome dogs.
  • Loch Morlich: Sandy beach within Glenmore Forest, with forest trails and year-round dog access.
  • Loch Lomond: Part of the national park, with shoreline walks, dog-friendly cruises, and pubs.
  • Loch Maree: Scenic, quieter loch in Wester Ross, with peaceful woodland paths.

Trails & Easy Routes

  • Caledonian Canal Towpath (Fort Augustus to Inverness): Flat, well-marked trail ideal for relaxed dog walks.
  • Aviemore to Boat of Garten Trail: Woodland and moorland path with wildlife and gentle gradients.
  • Great Glen Way Sections: Long-distance trail from Fort William to Inverness, with shorter day routes accessible.
  • Clava Cairns and Culloden Battlefield Walks: Historic sites near Inverness with open grounds suitable for dogs on leads.

Getting to the Scottish Highlands

  • By Car: Main access routes are via the A9 from Perth to Inverness, or the A82 from Glasgow to Fort William. Approx. 3 Hours from Edinburgh, 4 Hours from Glasgow.
  • By Train: Services run to Inverness from Edinburgh and Glasgow (~3.5 Hours), and the scenic West Highland Line connects to Fort William and Mallaig.
  • By Air: Nearest Airports are Inverness (regional connections) and Glasgow/Edinburgh for long-haul arrivals.
  • By Coach: Scottish Citylink and Megabus operate services from major Scottish cities to Inverness, Fort William, and Skye.
  • Travel Tip: Remote areas may have limited services and phone signal — plan ahead, carry maps, and check weather conditions before setting out.

Dog-friendly Coolstays in the Scottish Highlands

Overview of key dog-friendly staycation regions in the UK

Region / Area | Highlights / What Dogs Will Love | Key Dog Policy Notes | Access / Transport Tips ---|---|---|--- North Cornwall | Coastal walks, sandy beaches, cliff paths | Some seasonal beach bans; dogs on leads near cliffs | Nearest airports: Newquay; train to Bodmin Parkway; drive via A30 Anglesey | Dramatic cliffs, island walks, forest trails | Seasonal restrictions on main beaches; lead in nature reserves | Via A55, train to Holyhead, regional buses North Norfolk | Flats, salt marshes, long sandy beaches | Restrictions in nature reserves; check beach signs | Car via A11/A149; train to Norwich + local lines Chiltern Hills | Woodlands, ridges, commons, country estates | Dogs under control near farmlands and nesting zones | Close to London – trains to Great Missenden, Wendover, etc. Lake District | Lakeside strolls, fells, forests | Lead near sheep, enforce control, seasonal conditions | Train to Oxenholme / Windermere; M6 motorway access Scottish Highlands | Remote lochs, glens, mountain walks | Keep on lead near deer, livestock, nesting areas | Train to Inverness; drive via A9 / A82; ferry / scenic routes
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog-Friendly Staycations in the UK

Are dogs allowed on UK beaches all year round?

Not always. Many beaches have seasonal restrictions, usually from May to September. However, there are plenty of year-round dog-friendly beaches, such as Sandymouth in North Cornwall and Red Wharf Bay in Anglesey.

What are the best dog-friendly regions for a UK staycation?

Popular areas include North Cornwall, Anglesey, North Norfolk, the Lake District, the Cotswolds, and the Scottish Highlands. Each offers beaches, countryside, or mountain trails that are perfect for dogs.

Do UK holiday cottages allow dogs?

Yes. Many UK holiday cottages are dog-friendly, often with features such as enclosed gardens, nearby walking trails, and easy access to beaches or countryside. Always check the property’s pet policy before booking.

What should I know about dog policies in national parks and estates?

In areas like the Lake District and Scottish Highlands, dogs should be kept on leads near livestock and wildlife. National Trust and National Park sites often welcome dogs in outdoor spaces, but rules vary by location.

How can I travel to dog-friendly staycation spots without a car?

Most destinations are reachable by train, coach, or regional bus. For example, the Lake District is accessible via Oxenholme or Windermere stations, North Norfolk via Norwich and the Bittern Line, and Anglesey via direct trains to Holyhead.

What is the best time of year to take a dog-friendly UK staycation?

Spring and autumn are often ideal. The weather is cooler for walking, beaches are less crowded, and there are fewer restrictions. Summer is popular but can mean busier locations and seasonal beach bans.

Are dogs welcome in pubs and restaurants in the UK?

Many pubs and cafés across the UK are dog-friendly, especially in rural areas and tourist towns. It is best to check in advance, but dog water bowls and treats are increasingly common.

Can dogs go on public transport in the UK?

Yes. Dogs are generally allowed on trains, buses, and the London Underground free of charge, provided they are well-behaved and on a lead. Some coach operators may have restrictions, so always check beforehand.

Are there dog-friendly attractions besides walks and beaches?

Yes. Many historic sites, castles, and gardens allow dogs in outdoor areas. Examples include Tintagel Castle grounds in Cornwall, Plas Newydd Gardens in Anglesey, and National Trust estates across the Cotswolds.

What should I pack for a dog-friendly staycation?

Essentials include food, bowls, lead, waste bags, a dog towel, and bedding. For countryside or mountain trips, pack tick prevention, a first aid kit, and water for longer walks. In summer, carry shade and cooling mats.

Kit: Search Assistant

Hi! I'm your Coolstays assistant. Ask me to find properties like 'treehouse with hot tub in Cornwall' or 'romantic cottage in the Lake District'.