Sometimes you NEED a break, but going abroad just isn’t an option. With time constraints, huge planning and possibly children of the human or furry variety in tow, it can all get too complicated. Next you feel the urge to escape, why not take a little staycation to a luxury dog friendly cottage in the UK? For half the cost of travelling abroad you can have some down-time to relax and unwind, and the best part is, you can take your pooch with you!
From the sandy beaches of Cornwall to the hills of the Brecon Beacons or the city life of Edinburgh, we’ve found 10 dog friendly cottages that are sure to cater to your every holiday need. When booking into a pet-friendly cottage, be sure to check the fine print as often there are extra fees involved for bringing dogs, and there may also be a limit on how many animals you can bring.
1. LAKE DISTRICT, CUMBRIA
Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Lake District, this cottage is strikingly modern and the perfect base for a long weekend walks with a dog. Keswick is a popular Lake District destination with a wide array of independent shops, restaurants, and galleries for you to explore. Be sure to stop for a meal the aptly named ‘Dog and Gun’ – a modern gastropub which is more than dog-friendly. BOOK NOW
2. NEW FOREST, HAMPSHIRE
Not often do you have the opportunity to stay in a renovated telephone exchange, but this studio-style holiday rental in the New Forest offers exactly that! Ideal for couples looking to go on a romantic getaway with an adventurous twist, this property is great to take advantage of nearby canoeing, kayaking, and other outdoor pursuits. Although it is just off a nearby road, dog owners can relax as it is surrounded by a picket fence that ensures your dog stays safe. BOOK NOW
3. EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND
If you are looking for a mix of city and country, this is the cottage for you. Whilst being set in the quintessentially Scottish village of North Queensferry, it is a mere nine miles from Edinburgh’s city centre. Although we say cottage, this is certainly an understatement as this luxurious and spacious accommodation sleeps 10 plus up to two dogs. Spend your days here either visiting local sights such as Doune Castle and Dunfermline Abbey (used in the Outlander TV series), or simply sit back, pooch by your side taking in the views over the River Forth. BOOK NOW
4. PORTHLEVEN, CORNWALL
Looking like something straight out of the pages of ELLE DECORATION, this stylish seaside cottage is beautifully furnished in white, grey and rose gold – perfect for those holiday Insta snaps! Property owner Michelle says she took inspiration from traditional English seaside cottages and Scandinavian homes. The cliff-side home is also well located for various coastal dog walks exploring secret beaches and snacking on Cornish fudge (a must!). For the foodies, there are also a number of renowned eateries in nearby Porthleven, although it is advisable to check if dogs are allowed before visiting. BOOK NOW
5. WHITSAND BAY, CORNWALL
Another coastal Cornwall property we just couldn’t resist mentioning is this striking cliff-side cottage with a modern twist. Nautical colours galore, it is hard not to fall in love with this home’s seaside charm. A walk track runs straight from the front door down to a dog-friendly beach where you and your pooch can play in the sand or go into the sea for a paddle. When you return, spend some time on the balcony keeping watch for frequently spotted cormorants, kestrels, peregrine falcons, and dolphins. BOOK NOW
6. WEST SUSSEX
This wood cabin-style cottage will see you immersing yourself into the forest, but is not for the faint-hearted. You will have to embark on a ‘digital detox’ – wifi and television certainly aren’t available here! What it (thankfully) lacks in modern amenities it more than makes up for in quirky extras – did we mention the wood-fired hot tub? Just a couple miles away is Billingshurst, a picturesque town boasting 12th Century churches and Medieval buildings, as well as dog-friendly 16th Century pub, Onslow Arms. Arundel Castle, Fishbourne Palace and Bodiam Castle are all just a stone’s throw away and are sure to keep you busy for the duration of your stay. BOOK NOW
7. THE COTSWOLDS
Dedicated to quirky upcycling, the unique Filly Island home in the Cotswolds is sure to challenge anyone skeptical to creative repurposing with fire bucket lampshades and curtains crafted out of Hungarian grain sacks. Although it is a small property, it has a good outside space for up to two dogs of any size to play in after days out out exploring the Cotswolds countryside. BOOK NOW
8. BRECON BEACONS, WALES
This traditional Welsh farmhouse set in the Black Mountains is a delight for a family of nature lovers or keen walkers. Dogs are welcome on walking tracks that take you by high moors and glacial lakes. The nearby village of Crickhowell is a small town but offers multiple independent boutiques and dog-friendly country pubs; we recommend stopping at the Bear Hotel or Dragon Inn for a roast. BOOK NOW
9. ISLE OF SKYE
Voted 4th Best Island in the World by national Geographic, the Isle of Skye is a place of dramatic landscapes and unimaginably large lochs. This converted chapel may also be the most unusual cottage on our list with its reversed level design to make the most of the views in the living area. After an exhausting walk for both you and your pup, pick up some dog treats and local whiskey to enjoy by the fire before utilising the telescope, which is perfectly situated for stargazing. BOOK NOW
10. YORK MOORS
This northern seaside retreat in the York Moors is a destination perfect for families with multiple dogs. The accompanying swimming pool and nearby beach are sure to provide hours of fun, even if a little chilly! Nearby town of Filey has all the restaurants and amenities you could need whilst also being the perfect location to go crabbing. If you still have time the Bempton cliffs are well worth a visit. BOOK NOW
Have you stayed in a luxury cottage in the UK with your dog? Tell us in the comments below! Make sure to share your next dog friendly adventure with us on social media @STYLETAILS.
Michelle
Love this! The West Sussex one that’s pictured has the wrong link. Any chance of updating it?
Sara White
Hi Michelle, thanks so much for pointing that out! The link has now been updated. Keep us posted on your pet friendly adventures!