To celebrate the UK opening up, we’ve made a list of some of the best dog-friendly walks. And if there’s one thing better than a doggy stroll, it’s one that ends with a pint at the pub! Let’s take a look at which ones made the cut…
The Black Horse – Brent Pelham, Hertfordshire
The Black Horse is the perfect base to discover the leafy trails that rural Hertfordshire has to offer. The landlord grew up in the village and is really passionate about the local area. Start your walk here and he’ll be more than happy to guide you in the right direction. Expect to learn a thing or two about the surrounding scenery, history and landmarks, too!
When you return to the pub, you’ll be greeted by a warm welcome, doggy biscuits and two friendly licks – courtesy of the pub’s resident dogs, Goose and Mushy. And, of course, everything on the pub’s menu is locally sourced!
The White Horse – Dover, Kent
Just a stone’s throw from Dover Castle amidst the ruins of a Norman Church, you’ll find The White Horse. This pooch-friendly pub is home to a whole lotta history. It’s a Grade II listed building that dates back to the 14th century, and it was originally home to an officiant of the neighbouring church. Since then, the pub’s cellar’s been used as a morgue and an ale-tasting house.
Today, it’s an inn on the cusp of one of the UK’s most iconic locations – the White Cliffs of Dover. The pub is the perfect resting spot after a windy coastal walk. But be sure to keep your pup on a short lead at all times to stop them going too close to the cliff’s edge. And be careful of the grazing sheep, too!
Sticklebarn Tavern – Great Langdale, The Lake District
Commonly considered as the best walking spot in the UK, The Lake District offers a diverse mix of scenery. Think rugged lakeside walks and hillside trails with spectacular views. Although not as popular as well-known Windermere and Ambleside, Great Langdale is home to a fantastic dog-friendly pub, the Sticklebarn Tavern!
This is the only pub in the UK that’s owned and run by The National Trust. And it was made purely for dog owners to rest after a countryside walk. It’s home to two beautiful black Labradors, and has its very own dog menu. Pet parents can enjoy a bite to eat by the warm fire or under the shaded patio area.
Black Cock Inn – Caerphilly Mountain, South Wales
Just a short drive from Cardiff, enjoy a circular walk with your canine from the top of Caerphilly Mountain. The 360-degree views over Cardiff and Caerphilly are almost unmatched. And on clear days, you’ll be able to spot the coastline in the distance.
Right in the middle of the trail, you’ll stumble across the Black Cock Inn. Here you’ll find an array of local ales for you and full-to-the-brim water bowls for your four-legged friend. It’s the perfect pit stop to whet your whistle. Or, if you’re hungry, grab a hearty lunch.
The Lobster Inn – Sheringham, Norfolk
Part self-catering cottages, part B&B, The Lobster Inn is a real catch (pardon the pun!). It’s on the doorstep of Sheringham Park, close to a variety of trails. What’s more, it’s just a short stroll from the Norfolk Sea and oodles of coastal walks. With over 1,000 acres of picturesque parklands here – paired with sea views – there’s plenty of space for your pooch to explore.
The White Lion – Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire
This quaint gastropub sits on the outskirts of the National Trust’s Clumber Park. Your four-legged friend is welcome in both the beer garden and the public bar – with plenty of water bowls to quench their thirst. And with freshly cooked food and a gin bar, you’ll love it too!
Clumber Park offers up 3,800 acres of natural woodland and is perfect for a hike with your hound. There’s something for everyone with plenty of signposted walks of different lengths. Just so you know, the park asks that dogs be kept on a lead in the Pleasure Grounds, Walled Kitchen Garden and busier areas.
The Rostrever Inn – Kilbroney Park, Northern Ireland
Crawford’s Bar at The Rostrevor Inn plays host to doggies and their owners year-round, and they offer complementary dog biscuits! This refurbished 18th-century building loves its live entertainment, so look out for traditional Irish folk bands, as well as songs and stories by the fireside.
Just as impressive is the neighbouring walking trails of Kilbroney Park. We especially recommend the Narnia Trail. This nature loop takes you through the magical woodlands that inspired C.S. Lewis’ stories. It’s claimed that he once wrote to his brother saying, “That part of Rostrevor which overlooks Carlingford Lough is my idea of Narnia”.
The Mill House – Tintagel, Cornwall
Last but not least, The Mill House on the north coast of Cornwall is set in seven acres of its very own wooded gardens. The former corn mill is a slice of Cornish canine heaven, and the owners go out of their way to make sure you and your pup are looked after.
If you’re searching for a route off the beaten track, then look no further. Take the trail from Trebarwith Strand to Tintagel Castle – it’s loaded with history! You’ll be walking the same pathways trodden by Medieval labourers as they carried slate to Tintagel Island.
We suggest checking with the pubs before you head off to make sure they haven't changed their dog-friendly policy. If you’re looking for more doggy activities, check out some of our favourite things to do with your dog this summer, or our guide to the best beaches for dogs in the UK.
Got some recommendations of your own? Head on over to our Facebook and Instagram pages and let us know!
