Winter is prime time for long lunches that turn into lazy afternoons. There’s nothing better than warming up with a drink after a muddy walk with your dog snoring happily under the table. The good news is that the UK does cosy really well. And, even better, plenty of places genuinely welcome dogs rather than just tolerate them. Here’s our pick of brilliant dog-friendly pubs and restaurants for winter.
Lake District: Keswick, Ambleside and winter walks
The Lake District is hard to beat for winter pub-hopping with a dog. After a blustery walk around Derwentwater or a gentler wander along the old railway path to Threlkeld, you’ll find loads of dog-friendly places to eat in Keswick. The Dog & Gun and Pack Horse Inn are classics, while nearby Ambleside is packed with dog-friendly pubs too, like the Royal Oak. Many pubs are happy for dogs to stretch out by the fire and even offer them treats to keep them sweet.
Stay the night: One of your best bets is to look for dog-friendly accommodation like Borrowdale Cottage in Borrowdale or around nearby Grasmere. It saves driving on icy, winter roads after dark and makes for an easy, early morning walk before breakfast.
Top tip: Bring a towel. Even the politest dogs seem to find the deepest puddles in winter.
Yorkshire: York, Whitby and Harrogate
It’s a bit of an insider secret, but York is one of the best cities for dog owners. From historic inns to cosy snugs, there’s no shortage of dog-friendly pubs in York, which locals swear by, like Valhalla York. You’ll also find plenty of dog-friendly restaurants to eat in the city too, including near the Shambles, such as Ate O’Clock.
Outside of York, you could head to the coast, where you’ll find a host of dog-friendly pubs in Whitby, ideal after a windswept beach walk. The Endeavour is great and particularly dog-friendly. Further inland, Harrogate’s mix of elegant streets and nearby countryside makes it a great winter base, with lots of dog-friendly pubs that visitors love. The Mucky Duck is fantastic with dogs.
Stay the night: When looking for a place to stay, try searching for dog-friendly accommodation on the edge of the North York Moors. You’ll get countryside walks by day and proper pub food by night.
Top tip: Many city pubs are busiest Friday and Saturday nights. Aim for late lunch or early dinner for a calmer vibe.
London and the South East: fires, roasts and proper walks
It may sound surprising, but London is brilliant for dogs. From traditional boozers to modern gastropubs, there’s no shortage of dog-friendly pubs London-wide, plus plenty of dog-friendly restaurants that don’t mind muddy paws. Minnow in Clapham is great as it’s just across the road from Clapham Common.
Outside the city, Surrey and Kent are a winter dream. Think frosty mornings and dog-friendly pubs with fantastic food, which local walkers rely on for warming lunches. The Merry Harriers, in the pretty village of Hambledon, consistently wins over food critics for good reason.
Stay the night: If you’re on a tight budget, look for dog-friendly accommodation just outside London, in the suburbs. It’s often better value and much quieter in winter, but getting around on public transport is still super easy, even with a dog in tow.
Top tip: Check opening times midweek in winter, especially in smaller villages.
The Midlands: Derbyshire, Nottingham and beyond
Derbyshire does cosy pubs exceptionally well. After a walk in the Peak District, duck into one of the many dog-friendly pubs the region is known for. The ones with stone floors, open fires and generous portions. The Manners in Bakewell is a great example.
Cities like Birmingham are also packed with dog-friendly pubs, which locals recommend, especially around the canals and parks. The Plough Harborne is a chic, modern pub that will warmly welcome your pup. Over in Nottingham, you’ll also find dog-friendly pubs that welcome dogs indoors rather than just in beer gardens, like Poppy and Pint. Accommodation-wise, you don’t have to stay in the city itself. You could get a cottage in the West Midlands countryside instead.
Stay the night: Dog-friendly pubs with rooms around Bakewell or Matlock are ideal winter bases, with short walks straight from the front door.
Top tip: Some pubs provide dog treats and blankets, but it’s always worth packing your own just in case.
Wales: sea air and hearty food
Coastal Wales is brilliant in winter. Aberaeron has some lovely dog-friendly places to eat, which seasoned visitors return to year after year. The New Celtic Restaurant has a fantastic dog-friendly veranda. Llandudno offers classic seaside walks and plenty of dog-friendly pubs like the King’s Head and The Snowdon. Bigger city-wise, Cardiff is also a great contender with lots of dog-friendly pubs, which dog owners rate highly. Brewhouse & Kitchen is great and near Bute Park and the River Taff – perfect for a dog walk.
Stay the night: Dog-friendly stays along the coast mean you’ll get sea views without summer crowds.
Top tip: Winter tides can make beach walks unpredictable, so check access times before heading out.
Making the most of winter pub trips with your dog
A few simple things make winter pub and restaurant visits smoother:
- Call ahead if you’re unsure which restaurants are dog-friendly
- If you can, choose pubs with wooden or tiled floors. They’re usually more relaxed about wet dogs
- Bring a mat or blanket so your dog can settle
- Time walks so your dog’s tired (and dry-ish) before you eat
With so many dog-friendly pubs and restaurants across the UK, there’s no reason to leave your best walking companion at home this winter. Check out our range of pet-friendly accommodation, where you can discover fantastic places to eat with your pups in tow.
