So often, centuries-old castles are off-limits to our dogs. But there are a selection of castles in the UK that do welcome four-legged explorers. And we think there’s something magical about wandering around ancient stone walls with your furry companion by your side. For you, there’s history. For them, there’s usually a blend of open space and plenty of spots to sniff. Here’s our guide to dog-friendly castles worth planning into your next trip away.
Tintagel Castle, Cornwall
Tintagel is instantly recognisable. Set on the coast, it perches dramatically above the waves. Dogs are welcome to explore if they’re kept on leads, both throughout the outdoor ruins and on surrounding paths. And you’ll need to keep an eye out for cliff edges and steep steps.
What we also love about Tintagel Castle (in addition to welcoming our furry friends) are the nearby activities and attractions. You could walk over to Merlin’s Cave or the beaches nearby for a paddle. Just make sure that dogs are welcome at the time of year you visit. Tintagel Beach is dog-friendly year-round, but others might have seasonal restrictions in summer. Or, you could pop into Tintagel to grab a bite to eat at one of the dog-friendly cafes or pubs.
Raby Castle, County Durham
If your dog likes wide-open spaces, then Raby Castle’s deer park, in County Durham, will be right up their street. There are walled gardens too, where dogs on leads are free to join you, as well as the cafe. The main castle building, sadly, only allows assistance dogs. While they can’t go with you inside, the castle gardens are stunning and particularly lovely in both spring and autumn.
Nearby, you can walk along the River Tees, where you can take a gentle amble and your four-legged mate can splash around down the banks. If you’re hungry, you could try one of the village pubs in Staindrop – a pretty spot to refuel.
Castle Howard, North Yorkshire
Castle Howard is quite the stately pile, so you may automatically assume dogs aren’t allowed. Thankfully, this large estate is super welcoming to our canine pals. Again, they’re not allowed inside the main house, but the estate grounds and outdoor spaces more than make up for it. It’s got plenty of pathways, lakeside loops and outdoor cafes, where dogs are allowed on short leads. Outdoor seating areas at the cafes and on-site water bowls make it easy to take a breather together.
If you exhaust the grounds before the day is up, you could pair your visit with a wander around one of the pretty Yorkshire market towns nearby. There are plenty of quaint country pubs with outdoor patios for a bite to eat or a quick drink.
Castell Harlech, North East Wales
Set on a rocky crag, with far-reaching views, this fortress is packed with history and is a remarkable sight from the town. Your dog is welcome on the ground floor, on a lead. But, do check ahead of time before you visit, as sometimes there are specific restrictions in place due to events being held there. You can book online and, if you do, you’ll receive a 5% discount.
You could spend the money you saved at one of the town’s several pubs with outdoor spaces – great for a late lunch. If you’ve got energy left, head to nearby Snowdonia National Park for a walk on one of its countless trails or head down to Harlech Beach with its vast expanse of sand.
Corfe Castle, Dorset
The castle may be in ruins, but that just adds to a day out here. Corfe Castle is in between Wareham and Swanage, and is built on a steep hill. If it’s still for you, you’re welcome to bring your dog as long as they’re on a lead. They’re allowed almost everywhere around the site, including its tea rooms.
Once you’ve finished noseying around the historic site, you could take a walk down Purbeck Ridgeway. It’s a coastal and countryside trail that has both short and longer loops. Or, you could head to the castle’s village, where you can take a load off at a cafe or pub with dog-friendly outdoor seating.
Handy tips for visiting dog-friendly castles:
While exploring ruins and parklands with your dog can be the makings of a great day out, it’s a good idea to remember:
- Leads: It’s rare for castle sites to allow dogs to roam freely, without being under the control of a lead. These are important historic sites, after all. Plus, even the most chilled of dogs should be on a lead, especially around livestock or wildlife, which are often par for the course at castles and stately homes.
- Bring the essentials: While many of these sites are well set up for dogs, it’s still a good idea to have a stash of doggy essentials in your car, especially in summer. Water bowls and poo bags are the obvious must-haves, but a towel is also super helpful if they’ve got wet or dirty.
- Look up local walks: What’s great about ancient castles is that they’re often near public footpaths. If you can, grab an OS map or look up the area on your phone for surrounding pathways.
- Plan food stops: This is more for you than the dogs, but it’s great to stop and refuel.
So whether you’re after the clifftop drama at Tintagel, deer park strolls at Raby or a pub lunch after Corfe Castle, you’ve got plenty of dog-friendly options for a history-filled day out. You’re going to need a place to stay nearby, too, so search our dog-friendly properties today.
