Social distancing measures may have eased but we’ll be restricted to dog walks in our local area for a little while longer. While we wait for the pandemic to pass, it’s good to dream about all the wonderful places we can visit once we’re allowed to travel again.
With so many stunning dog-friendly destinations throughout the United Kingdom, it can be difficult to choose where to go. But here are some of the top contenders for your bucket list of places to visit with your dog after lockdown.
The Lake District
Your dog will love the wide-open spaces and endless walking possibilities in the Lake District. The spectacular scenery in this National Park features some of the country’s highest mountains and largest lakes. You can walk short or long on easy or strenuous trails through idyllic landscapes worthy of Wordsworth’s poetry. There is plenty of dog-friendly accommodation all over the Lake District, in popular towns such as Windermere and Ambleside, and in remote locations surrounded by scenic countryside.
The Suffolk Seaside
If the seaside is more your thing, then the Suffolk coast will not disappoint. It’s a beautiful coastline dotted with quaint villages, heathland reserves and long beaches where you can scamper with your dog to your heart’s content. Top dog-friendly destinations in Suffolk include Aldeburgh, Southwold and Orford where you’ll find a wide choice of holiday properties suitable for pets.
The Scottish Isles
If you’re looking for peace and solitude on your next canine getaway, head to the Scottish islands. Whether you choose Skye, Mull, Arran or another of the hundreds of islands off Scotland, you’ll be assured spectacular scenery of craggy mountains, white sand beaches and colourful seaside villages.
The South Downs
Footpaths and bridleways criss-cross this National Park in southern England. These include the South Downs Way, which stretches for a 100 miles between Winchester and Eastbourne. Located in South East England, the South Downs National Park is a convenient bucket-list destination for a quick trip away with your dog. It’s an outstanding area of rolling hills, sleepy villages and far-reaching views. For dog-friendly trips in the area, consider basing yourself in Midhurst, Petworth or Lewes.
The Gower Peninsula
There are numerous places in Wales worthy of being on this dog-friendly bucket list. But the Gower Peninsula is one of our favourites for ease of access and variety of seascapes. It’s primarily a coastal holiday destination with spectacular seaside scenery and long sandy beaches. Favourite places to stay for dog owners on the Gower include Oxwich, Port Eynon and Rhossili.
The Yorkshire Dales
You can walk with your dog for miles without seeing another soul in this vast national park in the north of England. Characterised by high dales and wide valleys, this wild and rugged area is fantastic to explore on foot. Things to see include the Ribblehead Viaduct and Fountains Abbey, as well as several impressive waterfalls. Dog lovers should head to Grassington, Ingleton or Hawes for pet-friendly accommodation in the heart of the Dales.
The North Cornwall Coast
As one of the country’s top holiday destinations, Cornwall has been a dog-friendly favourite for decades. With its beautiful beaches and dramatic coastline, North Cornwall is the perfect getaway for time outdoors with your four-legged friend. When it comes to accommodation, you’ll be spoilt for choice for dog-friendly cottages and holiday homes in wonderful locations such as Bude, Polzeath and Padstow.
The New Forest
You and your pup can explore the ancient woodlands, open moors, pine forests and coastal scenery of this magnificent national park in the south of England. With its dog-friendly attractions and 140 miles of footpaths and trails, it’s an amazing area for a holiday with your dog. Accommodation is plentiful in the New Forest with pet-friendly options in Lyndhurst, Brockenhurst and Lymington.
The Norfolk Broads
For something a little different, take your dog for a holiday on the Norfolk Broads. Famous for its navigable rivers and waterways, the area is best explored by boat. However, there are also plenty of places to walk and quaint villages to explore. Dog-friendly holiday homes can be found in wonderful locations such as Acle, Hoveton and Great Yarmouth.
The Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight, off England’s south coast, is another bucket-list destination that is perfect for dog owners. The island boasts more than 500 miles of footpaths, including woodland trails, clifftop walks and beachside rambles. Together with its scenic attractions and dog-friendly accommodation, the Isle of Wight is a lovely, laid-back holiday destination for you and your four-legged friend. You can choose from over 250 dog-welcoming properties on the Isle of Wight, in popular locations such as Cowes, Shanklin and Ventnor.
