Dog-friendly hotels: tips for choosing the right stay (and top picks to try)

Dog-friendly hotels: tips for choosing the right stay (and top picks to try)

At Love My Human, we believe dog-friendly travel isn’t just a trend - it’s a lifestyle. That’s why we stock some of the best pet travel gear out there, so your four-legged co-pilot can journey in comfort and style. But let’s be honest: where you go matters just as much as how you get there. The right gear is only half the story – choosing the right hotel makes all the difference.

We’re not talking about hotels that merely tolerate dogs; we mean the ones that roll out the red carpet for them. The places where dogs are genuinely part of the experience, not an afterthought.

The good news? Across the UK, more and more hotels are embracing this spirit; from grand country estates to cosy coastal getaways, these stays go beyond the basics to make your pup feel as welcome as you.

So, what actually makes a hotel dog-friendly? And which ones are worth adding to your travel list this autumn?


What makes a hotel dog-friendly

Being dog-friendly isn’t about handing over a water bowl at reception. It’s about creating an experience where dogs and their humans can relax together, without compromise. Here’s what separates the truly dog-obsessed from the dog-optional.


1. Amenities for your pup

Let’s face it – your dog is the VIP of this trip, so it’s only right they’re treated like one. The best hotels offer thoughtful touches such as:

  • Cosy dog beds and bowls waiting in the room – no need to lug yours from home.
  • Welcome packs with treats, toys, and even a local walking guide tailored to pet owners.
  • Special canine menus, doggy room service, or even a doggy afternoon tea (yes, really).

It’s all about the little extras that let your dog know: ‘You belong here too.’ 

 

2. Green space galore 

Nothing dampens a holiday faster than a “dog-friendly” hotel with nowhere to roam. You shouldn’t have to put your dog on a lead just to pace around a car park.

The best dog-friendly hotels offer easy access to the outdoors, where your dog can stretch their legs, sniff around, and explore safely and freely. Think:

  • On-site gardens or enclosed dog exercise areas
  • Woodland trails that start right from the doorstep
  • Private grounds or estates where dogs can be off-lead
  • Nearby beaches, nature reserves, or open moors that welcome dogs year-round

These kinds of spaces aren’t just a nice bonus – they’re an absolute must. Dogs need room to sniff, zoom, and explore, and the best hotels make it super easy to step outside and dive straight into adventure. Whether it’s a woodland wander or a full-speed sprint across an open field, your pup will thank you (probably with muddy paws and a big grin).


3. Dog-welcoming dining 

Too many ‘dog-friendly’ hotels fall at this hurdle – allowing dogs in rooms, but shutting them out of other areas. For a stay to be truly meaningful, dogs should be welcome wherever you are. That means: 

  • Dogs allowed in lounges, bars, and dining areas
  • Special dog-friendly sections of restaurants or cafes
  • Water bowls dotted around communal spaces

After all, no one wants to leave their dog alone in the room while they dine. Being able to relax together – whether it's breakfast, a casual lunch, or a formal dinner – is what turns a dog-friendly stay into a seamless one.


What to ask before you book 

Avoid disappointment by checking a few essentials in advance:

  • Is there a pet fee, and if so, how much?
  • Are dogs welcome in all public areas, including the restaurant?
  • Are there any size or breed restrictions?
  • Do they offer dog-specific services, like grooming or menus?


Lottie Gross - 365 Things To Do With Your Dog in the UK and Ireland

We understand that finding genuinely dog-friendly stays and activities can feel overwhelming. While the number of dog owners - and dog-friendly outings - is steadily growing, reliable information isn’t always easy to come by.

That’s where Lottie Gross comes in. Her guide, 365 Things To Do With Your Dog in the UK and Ireland, is packed with a full year’s worth of ideas for adventures with your pup. From Ireland’s wild landscapes and Northern Ireland’s rolling hills to Cornwall’s golden beaches and the dramatic peaks of the Scottish Highlands, the UK is packed with adventures to delight every dog – and their two-legged companions too.

The book also highlights some of the best places to stay, and we asked Lottie which dog-friendly hotels stood out the most from her travels.

First up is Ellenborough Park in the Cotswolds, a beautiful country house where dogs are greeted with a ‘Dog Pack’ in the room, including a bed and bowls. There’s even a dedicated Dog Spa, set near the human spa, where owners can wash their dogs with warm water and enjoy all the spa-style amenities.

Her second favourite is The Fish Hotel, also in the Cotswolds. Here, dogs can enjoy an indoor agility area, a boot room, and a proper dog bathtub stocked with towels and shampoo. What really impressed her, though, was the thoughtfulness of the staff: when she went down to dinner, they had already laid out a mat for her dog Arty, treating him with gentle care as they noticed he was a little nervous.

Whether you’re looking for a quick outing, a half-day adventure, or a full day exploring, Gross’s guide covers:

  • Countryside and forest walks
  • Dog-friendly beaches
  • Accommodation options that welcome your pet
  • Activities to keep both you and your dog entertained
  • And more!

With its mix of practical tips and inspiring recommendations, 365 Things To Do With Your Dog in the UK and Ireland is more than just a guidebook – it’s an invitation to create memorable experiences with your dog, wherever your adventures take you.

Check it out here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/dog-days-out-9781844866502/


Tried & Tested: Dog-Friendly Hotels Recommended by Our Community 

We always love hearing from our community of dog lovers, and when we asked you for your favourite dog-friendly hotels, you absolutely delivered. These are the places that got tails wagging and earned a spot on the must-visit list:

The bottom line 

Your dog is family - so why shouldn’t they get VIP treatment when you travel? By choosing the right dog-friendly hotel, your holiday can be as stress-free for your pup, as it is for you. Whether it’s chasing seagulls on the coast, exploring woodland trails, or curling up together by a roaring fire, the UK is bursting with getaways that welcome dogs with open arms.

Back to blog