Dog friendly holidays in the New Forest
The New Forest is a brilliant choice for a getaway with your dog. You get a massive mix of old woodlands and huge open heathlands, plus loads of flat trails that make walking incredibly easy. It's famous for the wild ponies wandering about, and you'll find plenty of charming little villages scattered around. You can spend the whole morning exploring the woods, then head straight to a local pub for some lunch while the dog has a well-earned snooze.
Why visit the New Forest for a dog friendly holiday
You and your dog are completely sorted for daily walks when visiting the New Forest. The Tall Trees Trail at Blackwater is a great spot. It's full of massive trees and lots of interesting scents for your pup to sniff out. If you fancy a wider space to stretch your legs, head over to Hatchet Pond or take a wander around the paths at Bolderwood. Just remember to keep your dog on a lead when the local ponies, cattle, and donkeys are nearby!
The national park actually reaches right down to the coast, so you can easily pop over to Milford on Sea for a splash in the water. Hordle Cliff beach is a top spot for a run all year round. When you all get hungry, you won't struggle to find a welcoming country pub. The Royal Oak in Fritham and The Trusty Servant in Minstead are brilliant local options. They serve up great food and are always happy to see wet noses and muddy paws come through the door.
Why choose a cottage for a dog friendly stay in the New Forest
Booking a self-catering cottage just makes the whole trip easier. You get your own space to chill out without worrying about strict hotel rules. We've got loads of properties that are completely set up for dogs. You can book places with fully enclosed gardens, so you don't have to worry about any sneaky pup prison breaks. Many of our homes also feature handy outdoor taps to wash off the mud after a long walk in the woods.
We have the right setup for everyone. Big families or large groups can book huge country houses with plenty of space and swimming pools. If you're looking for a quiet trip as a couple, we have lovely cosy cabins hidden away with private hot tubs. If you prefer the perks of room service, a cooked breakfast, and someone else making the bed, we've got you covered there too. Take a look at our brilliant selection of dog friendly hotels in the New Forest for a truly relaxing break.
Book your dog friendly stay today
Getting your next holiday sorted is incredibly simple. The New Forest is a top-tier destination that gives you and your dog everything you need for a proper break. Take a look at our fantastic range of dog-friendly cottages across the area and secure your favourite spot today. Trust us, your pup will absolutely love it!
Frequently asked questions
Where are the best places to stay in the New Forest?
Brockenhurst is a brilliant choice right in the middle of the national park, giving you instant access to open heathland. If you prefer coastal breezes, Lymington offers a lovely marina vibe, while Burley is famous for wild ponies wandering past the village shops.
What are the best dog walks in the New Forest?
The brilliant thing about the New Forest is that you'll find brilliant trails everywhere you look. For wide open spaces, head to Wilverley Plain or pop down to the coast for a sandy run at Milford-on-Sea. Just remember to keep your dog on a lead when the local ponies or cattle are nearby.
When is the best time to visit the New Forest?
Autumn is easily the best time for a dog-friendly getaway. The trails are much quieter, and the crunchy fallen leaves are brilliant fun for pups to sniff through. Spring is also lovely for spotting newborn pony foals across the heathland. If you're visiting in winter, you can't beat a crisp frosty morning walk that ends right beside a roaring pub log burner.
What are the best dog friendly pubs in the New Forest?
You won't struggle to find a welcoming spot for a delicious meal and a local pint in the New Forest. The Royal Oak in Fritham sits right on several popular walking routes, and they're always happy to see muddy paws come through the door. The Trusty Servant in Minstead and The Oak Inn at Bank are also fantastic choices, offering great food and fresh water bowls for a well-earned post-walk snooze.