Top 10 Dog-Friendly Cottages for a UK Break

Your pooch is part of the family, so it’s no wonder it tugs at your heartstrings when you have to leave them behind to go on holiday. Gone are the days where you couldn’t take Fido anywhere though, because as staycations have grown in popularity, so has the demand for dog-friendly cottages and holiday homes. 

If you’re planning a UK break this year, we have some incredible dog-friendly cottages for your four-legged friends, offering an abundance of amenities and convenience for people travelling with dogs. Here’s our pick of 10 of our favourite dog-friendly cottages and holiday homes…

1. Waterside House, Sussex

Best for: doggy-paddle practice

Waterside House is a lovely English country home with a magnificent 800-acre lake and lush lawn leading right to the water’s edge. Your dog can swim and fetch sticks to his/her heart’s content and soak up the warm sun on the spacious terrace.

Of course, there’s no lack of amenities for the humans in your group. The huge glass-ceiling kitchen and luxurious, cosy furnishings are perfect for entertaining. With room for up to 18 guests, this is a superb choice for a family party or gathering of friends.

Best of all, this Sussex country splendour is just an hour from London… ideal for a weekend getaway.

2. Tanat Valley Farmhouse, Snowdonia

Best for: quality time with your four-legged friend

3. Wisteria Cottage, Somerset

Best for: family fun

Wisteria Cottage is everything your furry pal has ever dreamed of — plenty of fresh country air and outstanding landscapes to explore with walking routes straight from your doorstep and ample space to play frisbee or fetch. Once you return from your adventures, there’s a pretty garden and patio where you can enjoy the Somerset countryside.

Of course, there’s plenty for humans to love in this charming cottage — there’s no better place for a peaceful getaway with the family (and your furry friends). Everyone will adore the super-stylish interior with a brick fireplace and upscale appliances and amenities – and it’s just 5 minutes from the lively town of Ilminster!

4. The Fortalice, Highlands

Best for: hunting dogs

If you fancy a Highlands shooting holiday with your dogs, then this former fortress is an excellent choice, providing access to excellent partridge, grouse, and even stag shooting opportunities. If fishing is more your style, there’s nothing like fishing in Scotland from your base at The Fortalice. You can even enjoy winter getaways here; how does a weekend skiing at Glenshee sound?

You and your furry friend will love walking the Perthshire countryside and napping near the massive log fireplace in this 16th-century castle. 

5. Derwent Garden Estate, Lake District

Best for: unrivalled routes for walkies

Derwent Garden Estate is a beautiful home in the illustrious Lake District featuring six lovely acres with a mile-long private drive adjacent to the park. Plus, there’s a stone BBQ and spacious outdoor dining area, the perfect place for Fido to catch a stray burger or chip.

Humans will love the commodious kitchen with vegetable and herb gardens and gorgeous panoramic views of Skiddaw, Grassmoor and the Lorton and Buttermere Valleys. Don’t forget the charming stone summerhouses—an idyllic spot for an evening tipple.

6. Pebbleline House, Cornwall

Best for: cooling off in the waves

You’ll love the amazing views at Pebbleline House, which looks out over the Cornwall coast – and even better, the beach is just steps away! Close to Polperro, a popular seaside village, the holiday home is an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle, and there are so many walking trails surrounding it for you and your pup to enjoy.

The England Coast Path makes up 2,795 miles of coastal walking opportunities, making it the world’s longest. Find out which sections of this amazing initiative are open, here. 

7. County Meath Castle, Ireland

Best for: fishing with Fido

County Meath Castle is located in a secluded setting plus a 4,500-acre lake liberally stocked with perch, pike and even brown trout—what’s not to love? Not to mention, the castle is situated on the banks of the River Inny as it enters Lough Sheelin. Of course, there are bogs and forests full of birds and wildlife to chase, too.

This majestic castle dates back to the 12th Baron of Delvin, who completed it in 1537. You’ll fall in love with the period antiques and furnishings that speak to Ireland’s glorious past. The tower bedroom may be the most beautiful place you’ll ever spend a night.

8. North Berwick House, East Lothian

Best for: contemporary cool canines

9. The Cobblers Cottage, Cotswolds

Best for: eco-friendly pooches

The Cotswolds is a dream destination for both owners and dogs — is bursting with tranquil landscapes, pretty parks, and charming wildlife, perfect for long walks and excursions. 

10. Daffodil Cottage, Cotswolds

Best for: romantic getaways with the dog in tow

Are you keen for a romantic getaway — long walks with your partner and your pet, followed by cosy evenings in front of the wood-burning stove with a bottle of wine and some lovely cheese? If so, Daffodil Cottage is calling your name. This cottage is set off the beaten track in Tarlton, located in the stunning Cotswolds. 

The cosy cottage with its unique interior and Venetian-inspired bathroom is a special treat for your couple’s break — and there’s nothing so lovely as walking alongside wildflowers blooming in the tranquil countryside.

Ready to stay in one of our dog-friendly cottages? We hope we’ve inspired you to take your dog further afield than the local park for his next walkies. Why not plan your next UK break with your dog and enjoy one of these fabulous cottages or castles? Take a look at our dog-friendly collection here, or alternatively, just get in touch with our concierge team who can organise the trip for you!