Not anymore. Today, even the smartest country hotels and boutique boltholes are bending over backwards to welcome canine guests (and kids). We’re talking outdoor dog showers complete with scented shampoos, agility courses, dog-sitters on standby and mini-bars stocked with lamb chew sticks. Anything to make the resident pups feel at home.
It’s all due to a wider recognition that dogs are family, and families now want to travel together in style. We’ve rounded up six of the UK’s loveliest dog-friendly hotels – mini-break destinations where pets are every bit as pampered as their owners.
The Fish Hotel, Broadway
Tucked away on a private estate in the Cotswolds, The Fish is a playful minibreak retreat, where shepherd’s huts, treehouses and smart hotel rooms make it a hit with energetic families and their four-legged entourage. Dogs are treated with their own agility course, a wash-down station for muddy paws and even a pup-friendly afternoon tea. Designated dog-friendly bedrooms come with wooden floors, easy outdoor access and thoughtful touches – towel, bed and Woof & Brew treats. While the main restaurant is reserved for humans, the bar (which serves wood-fired pizzas) welcomes canine companions. £30 per stay, per dog.
Chewton Glen, Hampshire
A short walk to Highcliffe beach, where pups – and kids – can run wild in the sand and surf, Chewton Glen was crowned ‘Best Hotel in the British Isles’ by Conde Nast Traveller. This five star country house hotel appeals to all ages. Little people are kept entertained with a children’s club, pool, pony trekking and surfing. By prior agreement, dogs can stay in the treehouse suites where they’ll receive a personalised welcome, complete with a bed and treats, for £35 a night.
Gara Rock, Salcombe
For a stylish seaside escape with stunning dog walks straight from the doorstep, you’ll struggle to beat Gara Rock. Perched high on a secluded clifftop along the South West Coastal Path, this hotel has a loyal following of returning guests. Dogs are warmly welcomed in most bedrooms, including Coastal Cottages and a handful of suites, and are free to join their owners in the restaurant and residents’ lounge. After a bracing beach romp or paddle in the shallows, sandy paws can be washed off in the new outdoor shower thoughtfully stocked with Bramley’s canine shampoo. A special place. £40 per dog for a short break.
Treehouse Hotel, London
No family member, four-legged or two, gets left behind at this quirky city stay slap bang in central London. Children can set up camp in their own in-room teepee and enjoy movie night milk and cookies. Meanwhile, the Ulti-Mutt Staycation package accommodates all of your dog’s needs from dog walking and sitting to Settle beds. There’s even a mini-bar stocked with venison kibble and lamb chew sticks. With furry friends taken care of, owners can relax in the rooftop restaurant bar overlooking the London Eye and Regent’s Park.
Another Place, The Lake, Watermillock
Whether arriving on two feet or four paws, guests are made to feel instantly at home at Another Place. Set on the shores of Ullswater, this family-focused hotel is a true Lake District playground for families and their canine companions. For £15 extra per night, dogs can explore the extensive grassy grounds or the nearby fells before retreating to bed. Dog-friendly accommodation ranges from shepherd’s huts and a woodland treehouse to lake-view suites and cottages, each thoughtfully equipped with beds and bowls. Dogs are welcome in three of the hotel restaurants The Glasshouse, The Living Space and The Brackenrigg Inn, ensuring they’re never left out of the action.
