This is the year to step out and discover the UK’s most breathtaking natural wonders with your dog by your side. From thundering waterfalls to ancient woodlands, sea stacks to mountain summits, exploring the UK’s wonders is better with four paws along for the ride. Whether you want to step back in time, caper along coastal trails or hike in the hills, head to these dog-friendly destinations for unforgettable adventures.
Coastal Landmarks
Durdle Door, Dorset
The whole of the Jurassic World Heritage Coastline is a natural wonder you can roam with Rover at your heels. But it’s the magnificent limestone arch of Durdle Door that’s the most striking reminder of millions of years of geological history and one of the most iconic coastal landmarks in Britain. Capture a photo with Fido in the frame from the brow of the hill, or take the steep path down to the beach where you’ll be humbled by the mighty power of nature while your four-legged friend bounds along the shoreline.
Find a dog-friendly place to stay nearby at Lulworth cove.
Holkham Beach, Norfolk
Let your dog run free across the vast golden sands of Holkham Beach, one of the UK’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Backed by rolling dunes and pine woodlands, the beach is a dog-friendly haven year round with endless space for sandy-pawed adventures and scenic trails through Holkham National Nature Reserve. This stretch of coastline has featured in films like Shakespeare in Love, but when you visit your dog will be the star of the show, racing along the shore with the wind in their fur.
Find a dog-friendly place to stay at nearby Wells-next-the-Sea.
Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
Often ranked in the most awe-inspiring places in the UK, this stepped landscape of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns is said to have been created by giants. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it was more likely formed after a volcanic eruption around 50 million years ago – the cooling lava forming the distinctive hexagonal columns. Whatever you choose to believe, it’s the jewel in Northern Ireland’s craggy coastline and a spectacular place for a dog walk. While dogs must be on leads near the visitor centre, the wider coastal area offers plenty of space for exploration.
Explore the Northern Ireland coast from a dog-friendly property across the border in County Donegal.
The White Cliffs of Dover, Kent
The iconic White Cliffs of Dover are one of the world’s most famous landmarks – and stunning terrain to explore with your hound at your heels. Ramble along the cliff tops and take in the views together, then visit the South Foreland Lighthouse for refreshments in the designated dog-friendly space outside the café.
This natural attraction is easy to visit from one of our dog-friendly holiday cottages in Kent.
Cape Cornwall, Cornwall
Once thought to be the most westerly point of Britain (until it was trumped by Land’s End), there are few better places to feel the raw power of nature than Cape Cornwall, where the Atlantic meets the Irish Sea. Here you can climb to the landmark chimney atop a rocky peak and lap up all the mesmerising scenery to yourself – or at the very most a few others and the swirl of seabirds that flock from the offshore colonies on Brison Rocks. While you’re in West Penwith, make sure you delve into the fascinating World Heritage mining territory at nearby Geevor Tin Mine, where dogs are welcome on all areas of the site except the underground tour.
Stay nearby in a dog-friendly holiday let in St Just.
National Parks
Snowdonia National Park, Wales
You don’t have to scale the highest peak in Wales to explore the natural wonders of Snowdonia National Park on foot and paw. Eyri, as its known in Welsh, is criss-crossed by spectacular walking trails from its rugged peaks to peaceful valleys. Many routes are dog-friendly, but it’s wise to avoid the busiest routes up Snowdon, and opt for quieter walks like Cwm Idwal or Beddgelert Forest.
Stay in the heart of the mountans in dog-friendly Llanberis or elsewhere in North Wales.
Lake District National Park, England
With its rolling hills and serene lakes, the Lake District is a dream destination for adventurous dogs and their owners. If you’re looking for lofty views on a moderate hike with your hound, try the steady climb up Catbells, where the scrambles are manageable and there are plenty of grassy areas for your pooch at the peak. If you prefer gentle lakeside strolls head to Derwentwater and Buttermere, and wherever you wander rest your legs in the National Park’s many paw-friendly cafés and pubs.
Check out our properties in the Lake District that take dogs.
The Cairngorms, Scotland
Escape into the wild beauty of The Cairngorms, where your dog can roam through vast forests, splash in clear lochs, and hike up rugged mountain trails. This is Scotland at its most untamed – five times the size of the Lake District, and packed with wildlife, waterfalls, and wide-open spaces. Follow ancient pinewood trails in Glenmore Forest, climb to breathtaking viewpoints like Meall a’ Bhuachaille, or explore the shores of Loch an Eilein, where reflections of castle ruins shimmer on the water.
Base yourself at one of our dog-friendly holiday properties in Aviemore.
Waterfall Wonders
Aira Force, Lake District
Instead of scaling the Lake District’s peaks feel the cooling spray and mighty power of its waterfalls? Showcasing the power and beauty of nature as it thunders down a 70ft drop, Aira Force is one of the region’s most famous falls. Not only will it leave you awe-struck by nature’s wonders, you can also explore a network of paw-friendly trails weaving past giant Himalayan firs and ferns to the banks of Ullswater.
Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, Yorkshire
Step into a world of tumbling waterfalls and ancient woodland on the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail in the Yorkshire Dales. This 4.5-mile circular route winds through dramatic gorges, past towering limestone cliffs, and alongside a series of breathtaking falls, including the famous Thornton Force. Dogs will love the varied terrain, from shady woodland paths to open riverside stretches where they can stop for a refreshing drink.
Stay in nearby pet-friendly holiday homes in Ingleton.
Henrhyd Falls, Brecon Beacons
Dogs will love the cool spray and shaded paths of Henrhyd Falls – the highest waterfall in South Wales and a magical spot hidden deep within the Brecon Beacons. Tunnel beneath a canopy of ferns and trees that hem the moss-covered gorge, following the sound of thundering water that fills your ears long before the spectacular 90-foot cascade comes into view. Dogs can enjoy a gentle splash in the stream, and if you’re feeling brave, you can even walk behind the waterfall itself.
Choose a wonderful dog-friendly place to stay in Powys.
Ancient Woodlands
New Forest, Hampshire
Lose yourself in the rolling heathland and wild woodland of the New Forest National Park. Once a royal hunting ground, here you can wander beneath ancient oaks, trek across purple-heathered moors, and follow riverside paths where ponies graze nearby. With dog-friendly pubs, scenic picnic spots, and a landscape that shifts with the seasons, the New Forest offers a timeless escape for you and your canine companion. Note that dogs must be kept under control, especially during nesting season.
Find your dog-friendly cottage in the New Forest.
Book a Dog Friendly Holiday Cottage for Your Next Adventure
Inspired to set out and explore some of the UK’s natural wonders with your four-legged friend? Book a pet-friendly retreat and make this your year to experience some of the UK’s most breathtaking landscapes together.
