- John Devlin
- Last Updated: April 2023
Finding things to do with your family can sometimes seem like a daunting task, but trying to find dog-friendly days is even harder. We work hard to discover all the top dog-friendly attractions and pet-related activities across the UK.
Here are hundreds of great dog-friendly family outings, ranging from National Trust parks to English Heritage sites. Pack your bags, get your water bowls ready, and head out to explore a plethora of dog-friendly places near you. day trip.
Table of contents
Where Your Four-Legged Friend Will Love Dogs
Browse the links below to find countless dog-friendly activities near you, from North Yorkshire to the West Midlands and the Lake District, and you can rest assured we'll organize a dog-friendly day for you. They have been checked and double checked to make sure they all welcome dogs, more than one dog may take a quick email to check.
If you want to bring your four-legged friendDogs allowed in UK weekend stays, and then our vast selection of dog-friendly hotels is everywhere.
From Northumberland, North Yorkshire, Lancashire, Cheshire all the way to Cornwall, Somerset and Devon. Stunning countryside, great dog day trips, woodland walks and areas of natural beauty your pooch will love.
1. Lake District
Dog-loving families come from all over the country to experience magical lochs, scenic walks, beautiful gardens to explore and countless days to spend with your dog, making the North West of England a paradise for you and your best friend.
Dog Day in the Lake District
2. Windermere
Whether you're cruising the lake, strolling through the beautiful vegetable gardens, climbing a hill, or enjoying a good dinner at one of the many dog-friendly pubs in the area. windermere will steal your heart
Dog Day in Windermere
3. Trout Baker
A picturesque market town in the heart of the Lake District - Troutbeck is the perfect base for exploring the area and there are plenty of dog-friendly places to visit, including many local pubs
Dog Day at Trout Baker
4. Yorkshire
Dogs are welcome at all attractions in this stunning county. Hike through the Yorkshire Dales, hit one of dozens of dog-friendly beaches, experience the dog-friendly activities North Yorkshire has to offer, or visit historic sites like Scarborough Castle
Dog friendly day in Yorkshire
5. Scarborough
A North Yorkshire gem, if you walk through Scarborough city center you see dogs of all shapes and sizes, why? Scarborough is a great place to bring your dog and yours for a 'good' holiday.
Dog Day in Scarborough
6. Whitby
The North Yorkshire coastline is a dog's paradise and Whitby is no exception, with miles of sandy beaches, castle grounds, National Trust-owned buildings and acres of open countryside for your pooch to explore nearby.
Dog Love Day in Whitby
7. Northumberland
Dogs and their owners will love exploring the coast and countryside of this historic county. More than 30 beaches, most of which are dog-friendly year-round, and a state park covering more than 400 square miles are just two reasons to visit.
Dog Day in Northumberland
8. Newcastle United
You might be surprised to know that this vibrant northern city has plenty of places to spend the day with your dog, for those who come for a short break. From strolls along the pier to nearby beaches and historic sites. see for yourself
Dog Day in Newcastle
9. Cornwall
With hundreds of dog-friendly holiday homes and plenty of attractions, Cornwall needs no introduction when it comes to dog-friendly days. You and your dog will be spoiled for choice.
Dog Day in Cornwall
10. The Peak District
National Trust gardens, quaint towns and miles and miles of open countryside make the Peak District a great place to visit with your dog. A must see is the beautiful grounds of Chatsworth House (dogs must be kept at a short distance)
Dog Day in the Peak District
11. Cumbria
One of the UK's most popular locations for dog friendly day outings. Cumbria is fun for the whole family. Boat trips, steam trains, walks through castles with sprawling grounds, woodland walks and beach combing are just a few suggestions
Dog friendly day in Cumbria
12. Wales
With over 200 miles of coastal trails for your best friend to explore, Snowdonia National Park is home to rugged mountains. Add to that the amazing castle and delightful gardens where dogs are welcome and do I need to say more!
Dog Love Day in Wales
13. Devonshire
There are so many places to go with your dog in Devon, take a steam train ride or learn about the fascinating history of this pretty county on a day trip with your dog to Bygones, where well-behaved dogs are welcome
Dog friendly day in Devon
14. Torquay
Holidaymakers flock to the English Riviera every summer, and when you look at all the attractions around Torquay, such as the Bygones and Seaton Tramway, which also welcome your dog, it's easy to see why
Dog Day in Torquay
15. Somerset
Cheddar Gorge, with its many great places to walk the dog and much to explore, is without a doubt the highlight, and the nearby town has cafes serving Fido with hot drinks and fresh water.
Dog Day in Somerset
16. Scotland
If you book a break in Scotland, your four-legged friend will be in heaven. There are hundreds of dog-friendly places to go and enjoy. The Cairngorms are a dog walker's paradise, and you can even go monster hunting on a Loch Ness cruise
Dog Day in Somerset
17. Aviemore
If you're an active dog owner, Aviemore is the place for you, after a day of walking the dog, you can play on the water or climb mountains, you can relax in the Bothy bar, and Fido can join you for a well deserved drink drinks
Dog Day in Aviemore
18. Dundee
Cross the Estuary of Tay or spend an afternoon wandering People's Park in central Dundee, whatever your fancy you're sure to find it close to this cosmopolitan Scottish city
Dog Day in Dundee
19. Northern Highlands
Want to get away from it all? The Northern Highlands could be the perfect place to live with your dog. With incredible views everywhere, you'll be spoiled for choice when walking the Highlands
Dog Day in the Northern Highlands
20. Inverness
With mystical lochs, pine forests and misty mountains on the doorstep, add to that notorious Scottish hospitality and it's no wonder Inverness welcomes thousands of dogs and their owners every year.
Dog friendly day in Inverness
21. Isle of Wight
Are dogs welcome on the Isle of Wight? Clearly. With sunny weather, beaches galore and lots of beautiful dog-friendly vacation homes, this is the perfect pet-friendly destination with countless places to take your dog
Dog Day on the Isle of Wight
22. Cotswolds
Dogs love walks and there are plenty of opportunities to stretch their legs in the Cotswolds. Explore the Cotswolds Water Park - a beautiful place for water loving dogs to play and have fun.
Dog Day in the Cotswolds
23. Norfolk
Speaking of water, Norfolk, with its miles of Lake District and beautiful coastline, is another county that welcomes dogs to its various attractions. Spend time at the ruins of the 12th-century fortifications at Castle Acre, or charter a boat for a leisurely cruise
Dog Day in Norfolk
24. Dorset
Booked a Dorset holiday cottage? Then you and your four-legged friend can enjoy a meal. From National Trust-owned Corfe Castle with its outdoor play areas and open spaces for children, to fossil hunting. There are countless things to do and see.
Dog friendly day in Dorset
25. Bournemouth
Relax on the beach, cruise around Poole Harbour, and explore nearby National Trust institutions and picturesque gardens. Bournemouth and the surrounding area offer many days to enjoy with your dog.
Dog Day in Bournemouth
26. Weymouth
His best friend will happily wag his tail if you book a holiday in Weymouth. Stroll along the flat Rodwell Trail, which is stroller and wheelchair accessible, or hang out with the dog for the day and take a selfie together at the iconic Portland Bill Lighthouse
Dog friendly day in Weymouth
27. Hampshire
Book your accommodation in Hampshire and discover the best of English Heritage. There are dozens of places to go with dogs, and miles of countryside for dog lovers and their hounds to explore.
Dog friendly day in Hampshire
28. Staffordshire
Did you know that Staffordshire has the most miles of canals in the country? Great for leisurely walks as most of the county is AONB and there are plenty of quaint villages and pretty market towns to explore with your fur babies
Dog friendly day in Staffordshire
29. Warwickshire
"Those puppies, Trey and Blanche and Sweetheart—look, they bark at me." William Shakespeare. You can discover more about the famous bard in the county of his birth, and the pretty villages along the River Avon are delightful too.
Dog friendly day in Warwickshire
30. Cheshire
Cheshire is home to Chester Racecourse, the oldest sporting venue in the UK, and there are plenty of good times for people and dogs alike. Delamare Forest and its new visitor center are an oasis of tranquility for woodland walks.
Dog Friendly Day in Cheshire
31. Nottinghamshire
Robin Hood's county has miles of forest trails and beautiful gardens, including Clumber Park's beautiful walled gardens where dogs can play.
Dog friendly day in Nottinghamshire
32. Leicestershire
Nestled in the heart of England, Leicestershire has some great dog-friendly attractions, including Ulverscroft Nature Reserve, owned by the National Trust, and it's a great day out (dogs are a must)
Dog friendly day in Leicestershire
33. Gloucestershire
If idyllic woodland walks and beautiful countryside are your favourites, there's no better place to enjoy the great outdoors. Spend a day at Robinswood Hill, a 250-acre country park with plenty of space to enjoy the spectacular scenery
Dog friendly day in Gloucestershire
34. Essex
You'll be surprised how many pet-friendly attractions Essex has. The Saffron Trail has more than 70 miles of backcountry trails, and some beaches, like the dunes at Sony Bay, allow dogs off the lead so they can frolic in the shallows
Dog Day in Essex
35. Suffolk
Pretty thatched cottages and rolling countryside make this picturesque county a dog-friendly getaway. Stroll the grounds of Framlingham Castle or relax on one of the many beaches.
Dog friendly day in Suffolk
36. Kent
England Garden provides a variety of leisure time for you and your dog. From lounging on the river to strolling around Hever Castle, Anne Boleyn was once a resident. there are many things to do
Dog Day in Kent
37. Sussex
Dogs are welcomed with open arms across the county, from the Bluebell Line Railway in East Sussex to Borde Hill Gardens and Park in the west, although they do need to be kept under control and ahead.
Dog Friendly Day in Sussex
38. Brighton
Brighton, the shining star of the south coast, is a popular holiday destination for Londoners escaping and if they bring their canine companions, they won't be disappointed. Many cafes allow a well-behaved dog and there are countless walks and activities nearby. .
Brighton's dog-friendly day
39. Lancashire
Is there a county as diverse as Lancashire that will take your breath away with its industrial heritage, National Trust country houses, beautiful gardens and scenery? Best of all, there are countless dog-friendly days to enjoy
Dog friendly day in Lancashire
40. Blackpool
For hundreds of years, Blackpool has attracted thousands of tourists in summer. But did you know that Rover can have an equally good time here, and there are plenty of places to discover that welcome dogs with open arms.
Dog Friendly Day in Blackpool
41. Derby County
Comprising part of the Peak District National Park, it is dotted with picturesque villages offering fantastic dining options, many of which allow well-behaved dogs. Derbyshire is a popular place to holiday with your terrier
Dog Day in Derbyshire
42. Shropshire
Picnic in the woods, impressive Ironbridge Gorge, castles, remarkable gardens and stunning views. Shropshire offers dog owners chance to do as they please
Dog friendly day in Shropshire
43. Surrey
On the south coast not far from London. Surrey is sunny and you can get a tan by visiting many places that welcome your dog, from formal gardens and handsome mansions to rolling hills, Surrey really has it all.
Dog friendly day in Surrey
44. Worcestershire
Located in the West Midlands, two famous attractions here are the Worcestershire Arwincroft Museum and the Wyle Forest Discovery Centre, which has a dog washing station and a dog-friendly cafe museum.
Dog friendly day in Worcestershire
45. Cambridgeshire
When someone mentions Cambridgeshire, you might think of boating down the river or exploring the old university town, but did you know there are plenty of places to explore with your dog and one of the best is Milton Country Parks.
Dog friendly day in Cambridgeshire
46. Central Region
From Sutton Park Nature Reserve in the West Midlands to Skegness in the East. You'd be surprised how many places there are for you and your pooch to enjoy near some of the country's largest cities.
Dog Love Day in the Midlands
47. Lincolnshire
The county is full of hidden gems, many of which welcome dogs. The AONB Lincolnshire Wolds offer something for everyone and plenty of beaches to play in, and Fido is sure to wag his tail.
Dog friendly day in Lincolnshire
FAQs for Dog Owners
Dog Crates and Wildlife
PLEASE NOTE: Wherever you take your pet, always remember to have poop bags ready and dispose of any waste in the dog crates provided.
There will be times when your dog will need to be on a leash and tightly controlled, possibly due to restrictions or dangerous cliff walks. When you're out for a walk with your dog, always keep an eye out for ground-nesting birds, free-roaming deer, and especially farm animals.
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It's true that a day out with your dog takes some planning and research, but when you see the fun your dog can have, we think it's 100% worth it, spending the day in a dog friendly environment is so much better than being stuck Leading the day. Trust us, your best friend will appreciate your efforts.
Whether you are looking for a differentdog walks near your houseOr planning a trip, be sure to check out our guide.
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John Devlin
Online publisher for over nine years, specializing in the travel and dog industries. When I'm not writing about pet travel and places to visit, I enjoy walking, fishing, and family time with my 2 golden retrievers.
FAQs
How often should you walk your dog UK? ›
Most dogs need at least 1-2 walks per day (unless otherwise specified by your vet). A brisk walk is a great opportunity for your dog to burn off extra energy, and a slow, meandering walk – where you let your dog sniff and explore for as long as they want – is great for their mental health.
What are the best dog walking times? ›Evening. The evening is a prime walking time for social woofers since this is when most people walk their dogs after work. Social pups love seeing all the goings-on around town and maybe even getting a pet from a passerby.
How many times a week should you walk your dog? ›It is recommended to walk your dog between 10 and 15 minutes, two to three times a week, according to PetMD. But if this is not feasible for your schedule, an alternative to a walk outside is 10 to 15 minutes of activity at home, according to PetMD.
What are the rules for dog walking UK? ›It is recommended that no more than four dogs are walked at any one time. ALL dogs under a dog walker's care should be reliably under control at all times and transported in accordance with the guidance in this document. Dog walkers should ensure they have a lead for each dog.
What time should I walk my dog UK? ›We recommend walking your dog in the morning or evening when it's cooler to reduce the risk of heatstroke and burning their paws on the pavement.
Is 1 hour walk a day enough for dog? ›“An hour-long walk every day is generally a good recommendation — preferably all in one session,” she says. “A long walk benefits a dog's physical body as well as their mental health.
Is it better to walk your dog in the morning or afternoon? ›Taking your dog out in the morning before breakfast is a good habit to have, especially during the summer, as temperatures at that time are still mild and there being no need to worry about sunstroke. The morning walk should last half-an-hour to an hour and should be the longest of the day.
Is a 2 hour walk too long for a dog? ›Your Dog's Exercise Tolerance
Most dogs can tolerate a daily 20–30-minute walk if they have a relatively good body condition. Dogs in great physical health can tolerate walks for up to two hours or go hiking for hours at a time.
Yes. Like humans, dogs need the mental stimulation that new sights and experiences bring. Repeating the same walking routine tends to get boring after a while, and as a dog walker, you probably feel the same way.
When should you not walk your dog? ›It's generally safe in temperatures of up to 19°C (68°F) but be careful when the mercury rises above this. Even at temperatures as low as 20°C (70°F) dogs are at risk of heat stroke. Heat stroke in dogs is essentially a high temperature not caused by a fever.
How long can a dog go without a walk? ›
No dog of any age should be made to wait longer than 8 hours! Different breeds have different social needs: hounds are extremely social, but some “working” breeds and guard dogs are fine for 10-12 hours.
How long is a good daily walk for a dog? ›A dog in good general shape can enjoy a 15 to 30 minute walk daily. Most breeds may need routine walks several times per day. Moreover, dogs with excellent health can enjoy long walks of up to two or more hours.
Can dogs roam freely in UK? ›It's against the law to let a dog be dangerously out of control anywhere, such as: in a public place. in a private place, for example a neighbour's house or garden.
How much do dog walkers charge per hour UK? ›Dog walkers can charge around £10 and £20 an hour, depending on location and demand.
Is dog walking profitable UK? ›On average most dog walkers in the UK earn between £10 to £20 per hour. Undoubtedly, your rates will vary depending on the location and the number of dogs you can walk at ago.
What temperature should you not walk your dog UK? ›As a general rule, walking your dog at any temperature below 20C is ideal. Anything above 20C can cause your dog to become dehydrated and very hot very quickly. The hotter the temperature, the higher the risk to your dog. As the temperature increases, even by just 1C, the risk to your dog increases too.
How cold is too cold for dogs UK? ›Small and medium breeds with thinner coats will struggle in -4°C conditions. Bigger dog breeds with thicker coats can withstand temperatures of -6°C. At -7°C dogs are at a risk of developing hypothermia and frostbite and going in these conditions is not recommended for most breeds.
Should you feed or walk a dog first thing in the morning? ›Feeding an hour or so before your walk means your pup will be full of healthy nutrients and won't be starving before walkies, helping them feel energized and ready to take on the park!
How long can dogs hold their pee? ›Adult dogs that are one year or older should be able to hold their pee in for up to 6-8 hours. However, 8 hours is a bit of a stretch, and ideally, you should not expect your dog to hold their urine for longer than 6 hours.
Can a dog go one day without a walk? ›Most dogs love them and they can be a wonderful part of our day. That being said, it is not necessary to take a walk every single day. Many dog caretakers feel like they are failing their dogs if they skip a daily walk. In fact, it is usually nothing to worry about, and sometimes it's exactly what your dog needs!
How far is too far to walk a dog? ›
Most dogs can handle 5 km (3 miles) without extra training but need at least a month to get up to 20 km. Walks above 5 km should always be followed by a light rest day. If you go too far too quickly you could cause all sorts of muscle, tendon, ligament, joint or bone problems.
How long can dog hold pee overnight? ›How Long Can A Dog Hold Its Bladder Overnight? The answer to this question is about 6 to 8 hours on average. Some pups may be able to last 10 hours, while others may only make it to five.
What time of day is it safest to walk your dog? ›Dogs can overheat very quickly and with serious consequences. Avoid the heat of the day – it's best to walk your dog either first thing in the morning or later in the day. Keep walks shorter than normal, your dog needs to get out but not for too long.
Should you eat before your dog? ›With that in mind, it is highly stressed that you are to always eat prior to your dog to establish and hold your place as the alpha. Allowing your dog to eat before you suggests to him that he is ahead of you in the pecking order and that this could derail your status as the big dog in charge.
What kind of dog does not need to be walked? ›Shih Tzu. The Shih Tzu is a small dog that was bred to sit on its owner's lap. Short daily walks will suffice and if there are days where this isn't possible then they will happily race through your house and bound on and off furniture to meet their exercise needs.
How often should you bathe a dog? ›Generally speaking, a healthy dog with a short, smooth coat and no skin problems doesn't need to be bathed often. In most cases, dog baths are more for the benefit of their pet parents than for the dogs themselves. Even so, it's a good idea to bathe your pooch at least once every two to three months.
Can you Overwalk a dog? ›Although activity levels range from dog to dog, you can over-exercise your dog. Like humans, over-exercising can lead to decreased activity levels, energy, and overall harm than good.
Are dogs happier after a walk? ›A walk can make a dog very happy. They love to check out the sights and smells and will really look forward to spending time with you. A dog that doesn't receive sufficient exercise can easily become bored or destructive.
What percentage of dog owners walk their dog every day? ›Our survey found 78% of dog owners say they walk their dogs. On average, dog parents take 10 walks with their furry friends each week and average 3 miles per trip. That adds up to about 30 miles of canine-encouraged cardio week in and week out, or about 120 miles per month! See Spot Go!
Do dogs enjoy new walks? ›As domesticated pets, a dog's natural tendency is to remain active, and so they are naturally excited at the opportunity to get the exercise and mental stimulation that a walk provides. In addition, dogs are social animals; for a dog, a walk means more time to spend with his best friend and pack leader—you.
Is 90 degrees too hot to walk a dog? ›
What Temperature Is Too Hot To Walk My Dog? There is not a hard and fast temperature that makes it too hot, but a good rule of thumb is 90 degrees and higher is too hot. On days with very high temperatures, the best idea is to modify your walk times to be early in the morning or late in the evening.
How cold should a dog be when walking? ›Most healthy medium or large dogs can walk for 30-minutes if the temperature is above 20 degrees F. Smaller dogs should limit the walk to 15 or 20 minutes if temps are between 20 to 32 degrees F. If it's below 0 degrees, no dog should be out for a walk.
What temperature is too hot for dogs in a car? ›Most pet parents know better than to leave a pet in the car when temperatures reach into the 80°s or 90°s (F), but a dangerous temperature is much lower than that. Even 60°F is too hot for pets in cars, according to Accuweather.
How many times a day should a dog poop? ›With that in mind, he advises that in general “defecating one to two times daily is considered normal.” He also notes that if your dog is eating a diet that is higher in fiber, they may regularly poop three times a day.
Is it OK to leave a dog alone for 8 hours? ›Most experts agree you shouldn't leave your adult dog alone for more than eight to 10 hours, but some dogs (especially ones with small bladders) can't last that long.
Can I leave my dog alone for 2 days? ›As a general rule of thumb, adult dogs can be left alone for up to 6 hours a day. However, the amount of time a dog can spend safely alone will vary from dog to dog, as even the most laid-back dogs may become distressed when you leave them on their own for long periods of time.
How many times a day should a dog eat? ›Dogs should eat at least two meals each day, about 12 hours apart. But a breakfast, lunch, and dinner schedule is an equally great option. If more than 12 hours elapses between meals, the stomach can become hyperacidic causing nausea.
How much do dog walkers charge? ›Dog walkers typically charge between $20 and $30 for a 30-minute dog walking service. The average cost across the US for a 30-minute dog walking service is $24.84 in 2022.
Can I take my dog to England from USA? ›You can enter or return to Great Britain with your pet cat, dog or ferret if it: has been microchipped. has a pet passport or health certificate. has been vaccinated against rabies - it will also need a blood test if you're travelling from an country that is not 'listed'
What dogs are restricted in the UK? ›There are currently four illegal dogs in the UK. Those are Pit Bull terrier, the Japanese Tosa, the Dogo Argentino and the Fila Brasileiro.
Can dogs travel from UK to USA? ›
Cats and dogs do not require a permit to enter the U.S., they do not require a rabies vaccination either, as the UK and Ireland are rabies free. You should however, get a health certificate from your veterinary stating that your pet is fit and healthy to travel.
How many dogs can you walk UK? ›It is recommended that no more than four dogs are walked at any one time. ALL dogs under a dog walker's care should be reliably under control at all times and transported in accordance with the guidance in this document. Dog walkers should ensure they have a lead for each dog.
Do you need a license to be a dog walker in the UK? ›You do not need official training to become a Dog Walker in the UK. However, if you are dog sitting or taking care of a dog within your own home or business then you will need to obtain a Level 2 or a Level 3 qualification to meet the Defra Animal Activity Licensing requirements.
What is the average price for dog walking UK? ›Location | Average cost (per walk) |
---|---|
London area | £10 - £20 |
South, South West and Midlands | £10 - £15 |
Outer region and North | £10 - £15 |
- Set up a Dog Walking Website (most recommended).
- Carry out 'targeted' social media.
- Land a High-Quality Ad in the local Paper.
- Use Effective Posters & Flyers.
- Network — The Right Way.
- Create and Leverage Partnerships.
- Conjure up listings to gain more presence online.
- Bad weather. As a dog walker, you're often at the mercy of the elements. ...
- Accidental injuries. Animals are often unpredictable. ...
- Property damage. Do you enter clients' homes or gardens to pick up their pets? ...
- Unhappy clients.
Most dogs love them and they can be a wonderful part of our day. That being said, it is not necessary to take a walk every single day. Many dog caretakers feel like they are failing their dogs if they skip a daily walk. In fact, it is usually nothing to worry about, and sometimes it's exactly what your dog needs!
Is 2 walks a day enough for a dog? ›We recommend that you walk your pooch, on average, 3 to 4 times a day for about 15 minutes. However, frequency also depends on the particular dog's: Breed. Eating habits.
How often should you walk your dog if you have a backyard? ›Latchkey Pets recommends that you take your dog out for at least a 15 or 20-minute walk every day and also let her play in the backyard. If she has some underlying health problems, you should consult with the vet before taking her out for a walk.