Dog-Friendly Holiday Guide

17 May 2023

If you want to enjoy a relaxing holiday this summer with your four-legged friend, the UK has some of Europe's most beautiful countryside and coastline, so it's no surprise that there are loads of dog-friendly attractions to visit in the North West of England.

There are plenty of stunning seaside walks where you can take your pup along the sandy beaches of Morecambe Bay or the lush green surrounding Cumbria’s Lake District. Further afield, Scotland also provides many scenic trails through woodland or mountainsides if they're up for a challenge. Read on to discover how to choose a great dog-friendly holiday.

family beach walk dog

Planning for the Perfect Dog-Friendly Holiday

When planning a trip with your dog this holiday season, there are some extra considerations to prepare for. Firstly, accommodation. We have a range of great dog-friendly cottages in Cumbria, Scotland and Yorkshire Dales that will ensure your pup has the holiday of their dreams, such as the Holly Barn near Trough of Bowland and Bective house in Kirkby Lonsdale.

Something else you will need to consider is what you plan on giving your pet whilst you are away. You'll need plenty of snacks and water for your beloved pet, so pack those up before your journey. Our cottages are all self-catered and offer greater flexibility for pet owners.

Finally, it's time to pick out where you will go! There are lots of outdoor walks in the north of England and Scotland that are perfect for dogs, and many of our holiday cottages with hot tubs are placed conveniently nearby.

couple walking dog on hills

Dog-Friendly Fun in Cumbria

The Lake District is an excellent place for dog lovers. There are plenty of places to visit, walks, and things to do with your dog. The abundance of outdoor activities will provide endless enjoyment for you and your pet, but what makes the Lake District unique is most eating establishments will conveniently accept dogs, perfect for that evening meal after an afternoons walk.

There are plenty of walks around Windermere that are perfect for dogs. Starting from one of our cottages, such as The Old Vicarage, many locations surround Lake Windermere, such as Bowness, Ambleside and Windermere Town. The view from the top of the fells is stunning, well worth the climb, and achievable with two or four legs.

family with dog at lake

You can take your dog on board Windermere Lake Cruises as they have special areas where they can relax or play while you enjoy the cruise along Lake Windermere. The boat views are amazing, and there's even ice cream stands at the ferry stops, so everyone's happy! The regular ferries provide an excellent way of getting around outside the car, letting you avoid holiday traffic and quickly visit the other towns on the lake's edge whilst taking in the views.

Kirkby Lonsdale is a village south of Cumbria that provides a unique, quaint atmosphere for vintage England. The village embraces everyone, with many shops and pubs for humans and dogs alike. Our luxury cottages, such as the aptly named dog house in Kirkby Lonsdale, let visitors choose either Lake District hot spots or the even closer Yorkshire Dales outdoor adventures and dog-friendly pubs.

Dog Adventures in Scotland

For adventures further north, Scotland has no shortage of dog-friendly holiday activities. But, unfortunately, there are so many that it can be difficult to know where to start. So if you're looking for an outdoor adventure with your dog, why not try top-rated outdoor walks? They're all within 10m of our dog-friendly cottages in Scotland, Loch View House and Skye Fall, and they're sure to keep you and your pup happy!

Loch Lochy is located right outside our Loch View House holiday cottage, well known for being surrounded by mountains and hills, making it one of the most beautiful places in the UK. It has been used as a venue for many films such as Harry Potter and Braveheart, which shows just how much beauty there really is there for you and your pet.

walking dog on fells

Take a walk along the banks of Loch Linnhe. This trail has been rated highly by users who've used it in the past, with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars. It's suitable for all ages and abilities, although it's important to note that it's not wheelchair accessible. Also, if your pooch isn't too keen on water, they may struggle on this trail as several sections involve crossing rivers or streams.

Ben Nevis is a great location away from water, conveniently near our Fort William property, Skye Fall. This mountain has been climbed by thousands of people each year since its first ascent back in 1746. However, it's important to remember that Ben Nevis is challenging. Therefore, planning ahead and ensuring that you and your furry companion are adequately prepared for the journey would be essential. But with the right equipment and mindset, walking a dog around Ben Nevis could be an unforgettable experience for both owner and pet alike.

Scottish holiday cottage

Millhouse: Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages

Book your dog-friendly cottage today with one of our dog-friendly cottages in Scotland, Cumbria and the Yorkshire Dales. Enjoy a peaceful getaway that you can share with your whole family, including your four-legged ones. Browse our selection of five-star luxury cottages online or contact us, and we’ll help you start planning your next adventure.

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