Dog-Friendly England | Dog-Friendly Locations & Walks in England

Live in Old Blighty with a canine companion, and planning a dog-friendly day out near you? Or house sitting in England soon, and want to know the best places to take your new furry friend?

Here find the ultimate guide to dog-friendly England. Below we explore the country’s most dog-friendly towns and cities, along with beaches, tourist attractions, walks, gardens, and even festivals.

So whether you’re a pet parent or you’re welcoming a pet sitter soon, hold onto your hats as we whizz around some of England’s most dog-friendly locations.

Dog-friendly beaches in England

One of the best things to do in England is to take your dog for a breezy stroll along the seafront. Let’s face it - your pooch won’t be strolling - the beach is for zoomies, and zoomies only.

Whether you live up north or way down in England’s South West, find a list of some of England’s most dog-friendly beaches below. Just remember to always check the signage before letting your dog off the lead, as rules can change at the last minute in some cases.

Dog-friendly beaches in England’s North East

Bamburgh Beach

Bamburgh has to be one of the best dog beaches in the UK - our four-legged friends are welcome on the golden sand all year round. At this beautiful beach, you’ll find a huge expanse of sand with the backdrop of Bamburgh Castle that boasts over 3000 years of history. This spot also offers handy amenities, including toilets, cafes and car parks.

Location: Bamburgh NE69 7DF

Warkworth Beach

Just 40 minutes south of Bamburgh, Warkworth Beach is the perfect place if you’re looking for beaches in the UK that allow dogs all year round. Offering up expansive views of the North Sea, it’s the perfect place to blow the cobwebs away if you live in the North East.

Location: Morpeth NE65 0SW

Alnmouth Beach

At the mouth of the River Aln, Alnmouth Beach is dog-friendly throughout the year, with rock pools perfect for a paddle at low tide.

Location: Alnmouth, Alnwick NE66 2RZ

Dog-friendly tourist attractions in England

Want to get to know England’s history with your furry best friend by your side? Luckily, there are heaps of dog-friendly attractions across England’s regions. Take a look below for a few popular places to visit in England, and research your local area to find more.

Beamish, The Living Museum of the North

Want to learn about Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian life in England’s North East? Take a trip to Beamish - The Living Museum of the North. It’s an open-air museum where you can learn about a variety of different eras. And the best part? You can keep tails wagging and bring your dog along too, as pups are welcome in the museum’s outdoor areas.

Location: Stanley DH9 0RG

York City Walls

York is one of the north England towns that simply must be visited at least once. It’s brimming with history, and the preserved medieval city walls not only offer views of the city, but also provide the perfect starting point for a dog walk. And if you’re looking for dog-friendly pubs in England, York is brimming with them - check out the Shambles Tavern or The Cross Keys to step back in time with your pooch.

For more information on things to do in the city with a dog, head to our guide to dog-friendly York.

Location: York YO1 7LJ

The Royal Albert Dock

If you live anywhere near Liverpool, it’s well worth a day out with your four-legged friend, and The Royal Albert Dock is a vibrant waterfront that’s not to be missed. If you’re looking for dog-friendly hidden gems in North West England, check out our city guide to dog-friendly Liverpool.

Location: Liverpool L3 4AD

Chatsworth House Park

Slightly to the south in Derbyshire is Chatsworth House - a grand stately home that has countless walking trails in its grounds.

Location: Bakewell DE45 1PP

Ironbridge Gorge Museums

If you’re planning a dog-friendly day out in the West Midlands, take a step back in time to the Industrial Revolution at the Ironbridge Gorge Museums, where dogs are allowed in the outdoor areas.

Location: The, 32 Wharfage, Ironbridge, Telford TF8 7NH

Shakespeare's New Place

Want to know what life was like for Shakespeare’s wife and children? Get a taste at Shakespeare’s New Place, where dogs are welcome in the grounds and gardens.

And if you live near the Bard’s birthplace, check out our guide to dog-friendly Stratford-upon-Avon, where we explore restaurants, pubs, walks and things to do.

Location: 22 Chapel St, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6EP

Shakespeare's New Place, Stratford-upon-Avon

Blenheim Palace Park and Gardens

Making our way down the country, we’re now at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire - in England’s South East. As one of England’s largest houses, it’s one not to be missed if you live nearby, and would like somewhere grand to walk your pooch. For things to do in the city with a dog, check out our guide to dog-friendly Oxford.

Location: RJXJ+7V Woodstock

Canterbury Historic River Tours

Live in Kent, or house sitting soon? See the historic city from the water on one of the historic river tours that run along the River Stour, with your furry friend right by your side.

Location: The Kings Bridge, by Old Weavers House, St Peter's St, Canterbury CT1 2AT

Tower Bridge

Did you know that Tower Bridge is one of the only dog-friendly attractions in London, at one of the city’s most major sights? Explore the historic towers themselves, walkways, glass floors and Victorian engine rooms.

Location: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP

Greenwich Park

One of the most dog-friendly things to do in London is to explore one of the city’s many parks. Greenwich Park is the perfect place to stroll with your furry friend. Enjoy views of the Thames, the Old Royal Navy College (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the Royal Observatory.

Location: London SE10 8QY

Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat

With a fee of just £3 per dog, this historic transport experience is an exciting way to explore Devon’s countryside.

Location: There are multiple stations where you can board the steam railway or riverboat, so check out the website to choose your starting location.

Considerations for taking your dog to England’s attractions

Time of year. If you’re local to a dog-friendly tourist attraction, consider visiting with your pooch outside of the summer season to beat the crowds.
Ask pet parents. If you’re house sitting, be sure to check with pet parents before taking your new furry friend on a day out to someplace new.
Stay local. It’s a known fact that our canine companions aren’t a fan of long journeys, so find a dog-friendly tourist attraction near you. And if there’s an area of the country you’d like to visit, welcome a pet sitter to keep your pooch happy at home, instead of uprooting them out of their familiar environment and routine.

Blenheim Palace, Woodstock

Dog-friendly castles in England

When looking for dog-friendly places in England, castles might not be the first stop you think of taking your furry friends. But as it stands, dogs are allowed in a fair few castle grounds around the UK, and some castle ruins. Take a look below for a few dog-friendly castles around England, and be sure to find one locally to you, to avoid travelling far with your pooch.

Bamburgh Castle

Sitting up in England’s North East, Bamburgh Castle boasts over 3000 years of history. Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a short lead at all times. As well as the castle itself, dogs are also allowed in the Tack Room Takeaway and the Victorian Stables.

Location: Bamburgh NE69 7DF

Beeston Castle

To the south slightly in Cheshire sits Beeston Castle, which was built in the 1220s. Dogs are welcome amongst the ruins, which provide panoramic views of eight counties. With the spot also boasting a recreated Bronze Age roundhouse, and the castle’s well as the hiding place of Richard II’s treasure, Beeston sure is a site not to be missed if you live in Cheshire.

Location: Chapel Ln, Tarporley CW6 9TX

Corfe Castle

If you’re looking for dog-friendly National Trust properties, Corfe Castle is one to check off your list. Situated in the village of Corfe Castle in Dorset, the Castle itself was built by William the Conquerer. These days, it’s popular with both tourists, locals, visitors and their dogs.

Location: The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham BH20 5EZ

Okehampton Castle

On the other side of the coin is Okehampton Castle that was built following a revolt in Devon against the Norman rule in the 11th century. Dogs on leads are welcome at this English Heritage property, so stop by and enjoy a walk in Devon’s countryside.

Location: Castle Ln, Okehampton EX20 1JA

Tintagel Castle

All the way down in Cornwall sits Tintagel Castle - the dramatic Medieval ruins that are steeped in the legends of King Arthur. Be sure to keep your dog on a lead, as there are cliff edges and nesting birds dotted around. The cafe is also dog-friendly, so ask for a water bowl to rest up before the walkies continue.

Location: Castle Rd, Tintagel PL34 0HE

Corfe Castle, Dorset

Dog-friendly walks in England

England is filled with great places to take dogs - whether you’re looking for a local city park, a pine forest to get lost in, or an expanse of golden sand for hours of fetch. We’ll start you off with a few popular attractions with dog walkers, but rest assured - there are hundreds more for you to explore.

Peak District National Park

If you live in the north of England or you’re looking to go house sitting soon and hiking is your thing, look no further than the iconic Peak District. Filled with dog-friendly trails, sweeping views, rolling hills and countless mountains to climb, it’s no wonder it’s so popular with dog owners. If you’re house sitting, be sure to double check with pet parents that their pet is up to the hike you’d like to take on.

Location: Peak District National Park

Lake District National Park

As one of the most scenic places in the UK, it’s no wonder that locals, tourists and pet sitters flock to the Lake District every year. Plan a hike with your furry friend and be sure to do your research beforehand, ensuring the route is suitable for their energy levels.

Location: Lake District National Park

Sherwood Forest

Slightly south in Nottinghamshire sits Sherwood Forest - home to the Robin Hood legends. The ancient woodland is the perfect place for a dog walk - just stop by the visitor centre first to plan your route if you’re not familiar with the area. And remember, look out for The Major Oak - a legendary oak tree that’s believed to have been standing for between 800 and 1100 years.

Location: Sherwood Forest, Mansfield

South Downs National Park

Containing various nature reserves, the South Downs stretches along the south coast, and offers views of rolling hills and wooded areas, ideal for local dog walking.

Location: The South Downs National Parks runs all the way from Winchester, Hampshire to Eastbourne, so find a spot on the map near you for a dog-friendly walk.

More dog-friendly national parks in England

Whether you’re new to England or you’ve lived here your whole life, there are probably still a fair few national parks you haven’t visited yet. The country is brimming with places to walk your dog that offer panoramic views, woodland trails and open seafronts that span for miles. So, whether you live up north - near Northumberland National Park, or way down south - near Dartmoor or Exmoor National Park, you’re spoilt for choice. Simply be sure to always check local rules, follow the signage and come prepared with doggy bags, water and treats.

The Major Oak, Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire

Dog-friendly gardens in England

Did you know that some of the most dog-friendly places to visit in England are its gardens? With countless historic houses - some owned by the National Trust - across the country, there are a fair few dog-friendly gardens, too. As a great way to learn about England’s past, why not visit a dog-friendly garden near you?

Chatsworth House Garden

As a garden that’s evolved over the last 500 years, Chatsworth House Garden is one not to be missed if you live in Bakewell, or you’re house sitting nearby. The gardens are open to dogs all year round - just be sure to keep your dog on a lead, and always have poo bags to hand.

Location: Bakewell DE45

Studley Royal Park

Keep your pooch on a lead and explore these 800 acres that includes an impressive 18th-century landscaped garden. Wander the grounds to discover the Fountains Abbey, Fountains Hall and the Victorian St. Mary’s church.

Location: Fountains, Ripon HG4 3DY

Belmont Gardens

Marvel at the 18th century house designed by Samuel Wyatt, explore the 3000-acre grounds and recently designed Kitchen Gardens. Always keep your dog on a lead and look out for the dog waste bins that are dotted around the estate.

Location: Belmont House and Gardens, Belmont Park, Throwley Rd, Throwley, Faversham ME13 0HH

Stourhead Gardens

Heading south into Wiltshire is Stourhead Gardens - a 1072-hectare estate that sits at the source of the River Stour. Explore the estate with your furry friend, where they’re welcome in the restaurant and shop as well as the gardens.

Location: Stourton, Warminster BA12 6QF

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

These beautiful gardens down in Cornwall are open to dogs - as long as they’re kept on a lead. Visitors with dogs are also welcome at the Heligan Kitchen and The Steward’s House, where you can stop for lunch.

Location: Pentewan, Saint Austell PL26 6EN

The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Saint Austell, Cornwall

Dog-friendly theme parks in England

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly and family-friendly day out in England, did you know that there are a few theme parks that admit dogs around the country? Take a look below to get started, but consider whether taking your dog to a theme park is best for them before planning your day out. Theme parks can be noisy, busy and overstimulating for dogs, so only bring your pooch along if you can avoid the crowds, and take care of them alongside another adult.

Flamingo Land

This dog-friendly theme park in North Yorkshire welcomes dogs in the conservatory area of both The Coach House Country Pub Conservatory Area and The Metropolis Bar & Grill. Dogs are also welcome at the outside areas of Pitcher’s Fanzone, Fabrizio’s and The Diner, and the theme park area.

Location: Kirby Misperton, Malton

Avon Valley Adventure Park

This adventure park in Bristol welcomes dogs, but encourages pet parents to only bring their pooch along if they're well socialised and calm in a busy environment.

Location: Pixash Ln, Bath Rd, Keynsham, Bristol BS31 1TP

Milky Way Adventure Park

As one of the best amusement parks in the UK, it’s no wonder that families flock to Milky Way in North Devon every year. If your pooch is okay with crowds, they’re welcome at this park - just as long as they’re well behaved, and pet parents clean up after them.

Location: The Milky Way Adventure Park, Bideford EX39 5RY

Babbacombe Model Village

For something a little different, check out Babbacombe Model Village that’s complete with four acres of gardens - perfect for walkies.

Location: Hampton Ave, Babbacombe, Torquay TQ1 3LA

Dog-friendly festivals in England

When planning the ultimate dog-friendly day out, did a festival ever come to mind? Well while traditional music festivals aren’t ideal for dogs, there are countless dog shows around the UK, made specifically for a fun day out with our four-legged friends. So without any further ado, check out the dog festivals across England below - and remember to only bring your pup along if they enjoy the company of other animals.

Dogfest

Keep tails wagging this summer at Dogfest - a festival inclusive to both dogs and families. Here you’ll find dog agility courses, dog shows and training sessions, as well as live music, family entertainment, food stalls and crafts.

Location: Dogfest is held all over England - all the way from Cheshire to Surrey, so check out the website to find a location near you.

The Big Bark

For a fun-packed day out with your canine companion, check out The Big Bark in Shepton Mallet. Here you’ll find “have-a-go arenas” where your pup can try agility, hoopers, flyball and more. You’ll also get the chance to experience charity dog shows, and relax at the Wags Cafe, or the picnic area where you can choose from a range of delicious street food stalls.

Location: Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, GB BA4 6QN

Paws in the Park

Fancy trying your pooch at flyball, agility, or a swim in the canine aquazone? Check out Paws in the Park if it’s nearby, and remember to always check with pet parents first if you’re house sitting.

Location: Paws in the Park is held in both Sussex and Kent, so head to the website for more details.

All About Dogs

From lure racing to dock and dive ball, fun dog shows, a live music stage and doggy shopping, All About Dogs is the perfect day out for dog lovers.

Location: All About Dogs festival is held all over the country, so head to the website to find a location that suits you.

Woofstock

If you live near Exeter and you’re looking for a fun day out with your sociable furry friends, check out Woofstock. It’s a festival for dogs filled with fun dog shows, displays, demonstrations, food, and doggy stalls.

Location: Powderham Castle, Exeter EX6 8JQ

Considerations for taking your dog to a festival

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re thinking about going to a dog-friendly festival.

Is your dog socialised? While dog festivals can be fun, consider whether your pooch is ready to be surrounded by hundreds of others. If not, socialise them first at your local dog park or a breed meet up.
Leads are often mandatory. Due to the sheer number of dogs in attendance, it’s often required for dogs to stay on a lead all day, unless they’re taking part in an activity.
Come prepared. Be sure to bring poo bags, a blanket, a portable water bowl and lots of snacks for your furry friend.
Vaccinations. Make sure your pup’s vaccinations are all up to date.

Dog-friendly destinations in England

So, thinking about house sitting in England, or own a pooch and welcoming a pet sitter soon? Follow our travel guides to some of England’s most popular to get to know the place better and plan a dog-friendly day out near you.

Dog-friendly London

Whether you’re house sitting in London or you’re a pet parent in the city, you’re simply spoiled for dog-friendly places. From cosy cafes to dog-friendly restaurants - along with the countless city parks, there is always something to do.

Outdoor spaces your pooch will love include Hyde Park, Green Park, Kensington Gardens, and St. James’ Park, but there are heaps to choose from - simply check the signage to check whether they’re allowed off the lead.

London is also one of the most well-connected cities in the world, so pet sitters in London can easily head into the countryside for a breath of fresh air - with Windsor, Brighton and Surrey all easily accessible.

For more ideas on where to take your dog in the city, head to our guide to dog-friendly London to find dog-friendly pubs, cafes, restaurants and activities.

Dog-friendly Oxford

Like many of England’s cities and towns, Oxford is a great place to go house sitting, or to own a dog. Whether it’s walkies in Blenheim Palace Parkland, a stroll through the Cotswold Wildlife Gardens or a ramble through Rotherfield Grays, you’ll never be short of things to do.

The city is also alive with dog-friendly places to eat - check out The Handlebar Kitchen before a wander along the River Thames. If you’re house sitting in Oxford soon or you live nearby, check out our guide to dog-friendly Oxford - perfect for both pet sitters and pet parents.

Hyde Park, London

Dog-friendly Brighton

Hands down - Brighton has to be one of the best British cities to visit - that’s why it's always so popular with pet sitters! The city’s countless dog-friendly cafes, restaurants, pubs and of course the seafront is what makes it so sought after for both pet owners and those house sitting in Brighton.

Plus, Brighton is tucked just underneath the South Downs National Park, so not only is it one of the most dog-friendly towns, it also sits next to one of the best places for dog walks in the country. For restaurant ideas and things to do in Brighton with a dog, head to our guide to dog-friendly Brighton.

Dog-friendly Bristol

If you live in the south west and you’re welcoming Bristol pet sitters soon, or if you’re house sitting in the city, rest assured you won’t be short of things to do with your four-legged friend.

Bristol is one of the best towns to visit in England if you’re into arts and culture - from street food markets to artsy Clifton Village and Gloucester Road shopping, there is always something to do.

And with heaps of dog-friendly businesses across the city welcoming dog lovers (and their furry friends) in for food and drink, you certainly won’t be stuck for choice! For more details on things to do in this vibrant city, head to our guide on dog-friendly Bristol.

Clifton, Bristol

Dog-friendly England: statistics and facts

Want to know just how pet-friendly England and the UK really is? Check out the facts and statistics below.

28% of UK adults are dog owners.
There are roughly 10.6 million pet dogs in the UK.
There are over 9000 dog-friendly places to eat in the UK.
English Heritage has over 150 properties across the country that are dog-friendly.
Cornwall has roughly 60 dog-friendly beaches, and Devon has 79.
There are over 700 secure dog parks in England.
Reading is the most pet-friendly city for renters, with only 4% of landlords saying they don’t accept pets.
Newport is the least pet-friendly city for renters, with 63% of landlords saying they don’t accept pets.

Sources: PDSA,The Kennel Club, English Heritage, The Beach Guide, Dog Parks Near Me, Hillarys

Black Rock Beach, Widemouth Bay, Bude, Cornwall

Dog-friendly things to do in England: tips from locals

Want to squeeze a few more tips on things to do in England from locals, residents and pet sitters? No worries - explore the advice and ideas below, plucked straight from our Community Forum.

“All the major (London) museums are free of charge unless you want to see a specific exhibition. London provides enormous amounts of free events, especially along the Southbank area of the Thames.” - @Podencolover
“Most large cities have companies that do free walking tours. You are expected to provide a tip at the end.” - @MaggieUU
“Manchester city centre is a very walkable city, so I recommend joining a walking tour. These can cover a range of subjects from the birth of the Sufragette movement, to the music born from the city and so much more.” - @Mark_B
“Be as flexible as possible - in terms of location, pets & dates- and also look for sits tagged as ‘low applications’.” - @Lokstar

Tips for pet parents

Feeling inspired for a dog-friendly day out near you? Fab - follow our tips below for keeping your four-legged friends happy while you’re both at home and away.

Stay up to date on local rules. If you live near the beach, it’s worth remembering that rules around canine access change throughout the year due to weather, wildlife and tourism.
Stay local. If you live in England, you’re never too far away from a dog-friendly pub, walking trail or even festival, so explore your local area for a pet-friendly day out your pooch will love.
Get your holiday pet care sorted. It’s safe to say that England is bursting with things to do with your dog, but what about when the time comes for a holiday? Well as we know that travelling long distances can be stressful for dogs, why not keep your pets at home, where vets agree they’re happiest? For one annual membership fee, owners can welcome as many in-home sitters as they need throughout the year - with no extra costs. To find out more about how to connect with verified, in-home pet sitters, click below.

Finding pet sitters in England

How it works

Tips for pet sitters

So, fancy hiking the Yorkshire Moors, soaking up Cornwall’s coastline, or city hopping through Old Blighty, with new furry friends at every stop? Follow our tips below for house sitting in England.

Soak up England’s history. Our history goes back thousands of years, so explore all that English Heritage has to offer, or simply check out your local dog-friendly pub - it’s bound to have a few tales to tell.
Go hiking. England is packed with national parks, rolling hills and sweeping coastlines, so make the most of your pup pal’s energy levels and go on a hike or two.
Find dog-friendly restaurants. No matter where you go in England, it’s simple to find pet-friendly places to eat, so give it a quick search and you’ll soon be dining out with your furry friends.
Chat to locals. One of the charms of pet sitting is that you get to try a new place on for size - so frequent that nearby coffee shop, and live like a true local during your time in England!
Explore England through house sitting. To get to know Old Blighty without paying a penny for accommodation, simply swap in-home pet care and get a unique place to stay in return. To find out more about house sitting in England, click below.

House sitting in England

How it works

More dog-friendly travel guides

So - you’re all set for a dog-friendly adventure in England - but want to know more about your local cities? Follow these guides below for dog-friendly restaurants, pubs, cafes, walks and activities.

Dog-friendly beaches in England

Dog-friendly beaches in England’s North East

Bamburgh Beach

Warkworth Beach

Alnmouth Beach

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Dog-friendly beaches in England’s North West

Crosby Beach

Formby Beach

Dog-friendly beaches in Yorkshire and The Humber

Runswick Bay

Fraisthorpe Beach

Dog-friendly beaches in the West Midlands

Humberston Fitties Beach

Huttoft Beach

Dog-friendly beaches in the East of England

Holkham Beach

Old Hunstanton Beach

Dog-friendly beaches in the South East

West Wittering Beach

Camber Sands

Dog-friendly beaches in the South West

Woolacombe Beach

Saunton Sands

Watergate Bay

Considerations for taking your dog to the beach in England