🐾 The Ultimate Guide to Dog-Friendly Holidays in the UK: Staycations, Beaches & Countryside Escapes
Dreaming of a getaway without leaving your furry friend behind? You’re not alone. More UK dog lovers than ever are swapping traditional holidays for adventures they can share with their four-legged companions. And honestly, who could blame them? Whether it’s sandy paws on a sun-drenched beach, joyful tail wags on a woodland trail, or cosy evenings snuggled in a countryside cottage — a holiday just feels better when your dog is by your side.
The great news? Britain is one of the most dog-friendly countries in the world. From scenic coastal escapes and rugged national parks to charming pubs, boutique hotels, and even pet-focused festivals, there’s no shortage of welcoming places that roll out the red carpet for canine guests.
So whether you're craving beach days, countryside hikes, or lively dog events, this guide will help you plan the perfect UK staycation — packed with helpful tips, safety advice, product suggestions, and plenty of tail-wagging inspiration.
Why it matters:
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🐶 Avoid separation anxiety — for both you and your dog
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💷 Skip kennel or pet-sitter fees
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🥾 Enjoy adventures together – long walks, scenic naps, new sniffs
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📸 Capture core memories – complete with muddy paws and windswept ears
Best Dog-Friendly Destinations in the UK
Whether your dog is a seaside sprinter or a mountain mooch, there’s a perfect UK destination waiting for you both.
🏞 The Lake District
With postcard-perfect hills and trails made for four paws, the Lake District is a canine paradise.
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Try gentle walks like Orrest Head for stunning views
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Stop in Keswick — one of the most dog-friendly towns in Britain, packed with welcoming pubs and cafés
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Book a pooch-perfect cottage via Canine Cottages
Pro tip: Don’t miss Derwentwater — perfect for paddle dips and picnic naps.
🌊 Cornwall
If your pup loves the sea breeze and sand between their toes, Cornwall is calling.
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Perranporth and Watergate Bay offer dog-friendly beaches year-round
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Coastal paths are perfect for low-to-moderate walks with panoramic sea views
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Book stylish stays at Watergate Bay Hotel or find dog-inclusive gems on PetsPyjamas
Café stop: Head to the Beach Hut for brunch with sea views — dogs welcome.
🏔 Scottish Highlands
Dreaming of big skies, quiet glens, and loch side strolls? The Highlands deliver untamed beauty that’ll have your dog sniffing the breeze for hours.
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Discover Glen Nevis, Loch Ness, and quiet woodland trails
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Remote cabins and lodges offer peace (and space for muddy paws)
One for the bold: Wild camping in Scotland is legal — just brush up on local laws and always leave no trace.
⛰ Snowdonia
Snowdonia blends forest, mountains, and lakes into one endlessly explorable landscape.
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Try Llyn Padarn’s lakeside path or the tranquil trails through Beddgelert Forest
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Many local cottages and log cabins are pet-welcoming, some with enclosed gardens and outdoor taps for post-hike rinses
Hiking With Your Dog: What You Need to Know
Hiking with dogs can be one of life’s purest joys. That said, safety comes first.
✅ Before you go:
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Pack enough water for both of you — a collapsible bowl is a must
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Keep leads handy near livestock, cliff edges, or other dogs
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Know your dog’s limits: steep, rocky climbs aren’t for every breed
Flat-faced breeds like Pugs or Frenchies? Opt for shaded woodland walks instead of steep peaks.
🧳 Essentials Worth Packing:
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Reflective Dog Harness for low-light walks https://jsmstore.co.uk/products/dog-harness-vest-reflective-perfect-fusion-of-style-safety-comfort
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Collapsible Travel Bowl – compact and mess-free https://jsmstore.co.uk/products/silicone-travel-dog-bowl-portable-collapsible-feeder-for-pets-on-the-go
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Paw Protection Booties for gravel or hot terrain
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GPS Dog Fence – a must-have for campsite freedom without the worry https://jsmstore.co.uk/products/gps-wireless-dog-fence
Beach Days with Dogs: Safety First
There’s nothing like watching your dog sprint across a stretch of sand like they’ve been let loose in heaven. But beaches can also be full of hidden hazards.
🌊 Beach safety tips:
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Bring plenty of fresh water — seawater = upset tummies
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Test the sand with your hand: hot sand burns paws
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Avoid beaches with sharp rocks, shells, or jellyfish
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Respect local signage — some beaches restrict dogs during peak months
Check dog access before you go: The Beach Guide
🏖 Recommended Products:
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Cooling Dog Mat – great for car naps or shady spots https://jsmstore.co.uk/products/cooling-dog-mat-scratch-resistant-ice-silk-non-slip-pad
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Dog Life Jacket – especially for smaller breeds or nervous swimmers https://jsmstore.co.uk/products/swim-pet-dog-life-jacket-vest-clothes-make-your-dog-look-shark
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Pop-up Shade Tent – for midday breaks on sunny beaches
UK Dog Events Worth Travelling For
Planning around an event? These dog-friendly UK happenings are worth the detour.
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🐾 Crufts (March) – The ultimate dog show at NEC Birmingham
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🎉 DogFest (May–Sept) – Held in several UK cities with agility courses, stalls, and vet talks
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🐕 Paws in the Park (Sept) – Kent’s top canine celebration
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🌳 Bark in the Park – Blue Cross’s summer events across London park
Where to find them:-
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DogFest 2025
Locations and Dates
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Ashton Court, Bristol - September 6th & 7th, 2025
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Harewood House, Yorkshire - September 13th & 14th, 2025
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Paws in the Park 2025
Locations and Dates
1. Kent Showground - September 20-21th 2025
What to Pack: Dog Holiday Checklist 🧳
Here’s your essential kit for a smooth journey:
Bonus: bring a scent item from home (like a used pillowcase) to help your dog settle faster in new surroundings.
Weather Watch: UK Conditions Year-Round
☀️ Summer Travel Tips:
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Walk early or late to avoid heatstroke
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Bring cooling aids (mats, vests, water mists)
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Never leave dogs in cars — even for “just a minute”
👉 Full Guide: Keeping Pets Safe in Heatwaves
❄️ Winter Tips:
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Use a warm, waterproof coat
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Wipe muddy paws to avoid sore pads
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Bring a dry towel for post-walk snuggles
Tried & Tested Travel Essentials from Our Store
🎒 Pack these and go worry-free:
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Washable Velvet Dog Bed – for the cosiest night’s sleep, wherever you land
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GPS Wireless Fence – peace of mind for campsite and garden holidays
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Puzzle Toy for Travel Days – keep your dog busy in the car or at the hotel
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Universal Car Seat Protector – for mucky paws and coastal sand
Final Thoughts: Let the Adventures Begin
Your next unforgettable break is just a lead-length away. Whether you're hiking the Highlands, lounging on a Cornish beach, or relaxing in a countryside cottage, the UK is overflowing with pet-friendly places made for memory-making.
Don’t just take a holiday. Make it a pawfect one.
👉 Browse our full Summer Collection JSMpet store - https://jsmstore.co.uk/collections/summer-clothes-toys-cooling-products
🐾 Happy travels — and may your trip be full of tail wags and muddy adventures.
