Dog-Friendly Northern Ireland | Dog-Friendly Restaurants Northern Ireland

Want to get better at planning pet-friendly days out near you? Stay right where you are - you’ve landed on the ultimate guide to dog-friendly Northern Ireland.

Below find the best dog-friendly beaches in Northern Ireland, along with attractions that allow dogs, countryside walks and places to eat. And spoiler alert - there are heaps of dog-friendly restaurants in Northern Ireland to choose from!

So, whether you’re house sitting, you’re welcoming a pet sitter in Northern Ireland, or you just want to get better at planning dog-friendly days out, take a look below.

Dog-friendly beaches in Northern Ireland

Whether you live in Northern Ireland with a four-legged friend or you’re house sitting, beaches are one of the best places to bring dogs. Below, find a list of dog-friendly beaches in Northern Ireland, all with stunning views across the coast and countryside.

Portstewart Strand

Northern Ireland’s dramatic coastline is truly showcased at Portstewart Strand - a beach with an expanse of golden sands and clifftop views. Explore the 6000-year-old dunes - some are up to 30 metres high! When discovering the area with your dog, keep them on a lead up to post 10, and be aware of birds nesting on the ground, and any other local wildlife.

Location: Londonderry, Northern Ireland

Benone Strand

This Blue Flag area is renowned for its water safety and gorgeous stretch of golden sands - perfect for your furry friend to run around and let off steam. Be aware that restrictions apply from 1st June to 1st September, when dogs are restricted in certain areas. To understand where your dog is allowed during this time, check the signage when visiting, as it may change from year to year.

Location: Limavady BT49 0LQ

Whiterocks Beach

Popular with dog walkers and hikers, Whiterocks Beach in Portrush is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and stunning stretch of sand. Visit with your furry friends all year round, but be aware that there are restrictions during 1st June and 15th September. During the peak season, dogs aren’t allowed on certain bathing areas of the beach, so double check the signage when planning your walk.

Location: Portrush BT56 8DF

Castlerock Beach

This dog-friendly beach stretches from the cliffs of Downhull to the Lower River Bann estuary, and is a brisk walk away from the village of Castlerock. Like many of Northern Ireland’s beaches, there are restrictions on the bathing areas between 1st June and 15th September.

Location: 4 Sea Rd, Castlerock, Coleraine BT51 4RE

Considerations for taking your dog to Northern Ireland’s beaches

The beaches are some of the most dog-friendly places Northern Ireland has to offer, but there are a few things to keep in mind when visiting:

Seasonal restrictions. Most of the beaches in Northern Ireland restrict canine visitors during the peak season of 1st June and 15th September, so always double check where you’re allowed to roam before visiting.
Local wildlife and livestock. Northern Ireland is home to ground nesting birds, grazing cows and other seasonal wildlife, so follow local rules and keep your dog under control when nearby.
Lead requirements. Some rules allow your pooch to roam, as long as they’re kept on a lead - so always follow local rules that’ll keep both your dog and local wildlife safe.
Cleaning up and controlling your dog. Always bring poo bags and only let your dog off the lead if they’re under voice control. If you’re house sitting as a pet sitter in Northern Ireland, check with pet parents before letting their dog off the lead.

Tyrella Beach, Northern Ireland

Dog-friendly walks and parks in Northern Ireland

Naturally, one of the most dog-friendly activities Northern Ireland has to offer is a good old fashioned dog walk in the countryside. So below, find a few dog walking destinations and ideas - perfect for a pet-friendly day exploring your local area with your furry friends.

Giant’s Causeway

Want a dramatic, world-renowned backdrop for your dog walk? Head to the Causeway Coast to the Giant’s Causeway - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This spot is famous for its 40,000 basalt columns that stick out of the water - and it’s no wonder they’ve inspired folklore throughout the centuries.

Location: 44 Causeway Rd, Bushmills BT57 8SU

Divis and the Black Mountain

Nestled within the Belfast Hills, find grassland, heathland and bog - all areas where dogs on a lead are welcome. There are multiple paths for visitors to follow that offer the perfect routes with varying difficulties. Some lead to impressive archaeological sites, including Bronze Age burial cairns and stone-walled enclosures.

Location: Belfast BT17 0NG

Castlewellan Forest Park

If you live in County Down, Castlewellen Forest Park is a must-see dog walking spot. Find a lake perfect for cooling down in the summer months and walking trails your dog will love. Just be aware that dogs aren’t permitted in the Peace Maze or play park area.

Location: Forest Park View, Castlewellan BT31 9BU

Tollymore Forest Park

This dog-friendly state park at the foot of the Mourne Mountains covers 630 hectares of land, and is home to the Shimna River, mountain views and conifer forests. Follow the signage and keep your dog on a lead where there are restrictions.

Location: Bryansford Rd, Newcastle BT33 0PR

Mourne Mountains

Located in County Down are the dramatic Mourne Mountains - the perfect backdrop for hiking with your dog in Northern Ireland. The range is home to trails of varying difficulty, so plan your trip ahead to make sure it’s suitable for both you and your furry companion.

Location: Newry BT34 5XL

Dog parks in Northern Ireland

Want somewhere secure to explore with your dog in the open air? Consider locating your nearest dog park - they’re often fenced areas specifically designed for walkies, games of fetch and socialising your pooch.

Antrim Dog Park. Deerpark Bridge, Six Mile Water
K9s on the Collin. Braepark Rd, Ballyclare BT39 9TE
Valley Park Dog Park. O'Neill Rd, Newtownabbey BT36 7LS
Barkside Park. 47 Tullynacross Rd, Lisburn BT27 5SL
Beechgrove Doggy Fun Park.Ednego Rd, Banbridge BT32 3ST

Giants Causeway, Northern Ireland

Dog-friendly attractions in Northern Ireland

Planning a dog-friendly day out near you is simple once you’re clued up on local, dog-friendly things to do. Start with our list below and always double check your four-legged friend is still welcome before arriving.

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne

If you’re looking for things to do in Coleraine, you can’t miss the Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne. This iconic attraction - built in the 18th century as a library - sits on the cliff edge and offers dramatic views across the ocean. Luckily for pet parents and sitters, dogs are welcome in all outdoor areas - just be sure to keep them on a lead for their own safety.

Location: Mussenden Rd, Castlerock, Coleraine BT51 4RP

St George's Market

If you’re anywhere near Belfast, a visit to St. George’s Market is a must - did you know that it dates all the way back to 1604? Check it out for over 250 stalls of artisan crafts, live music, street food and local produce. Bring your dog along (on a lead, of course) and head to the May Street entrance for dog bowls.

Location: 12 East Bridge St, Belfast BT1 3NQ

Mount Stewart

Once the home of the Marquesses of Londonderry, this National Trust Property is popular with both history and nature lovers. If you’re visiting with your four-legged friends, keep them on a lead and explore the pleasure grounds, woodlands, courtyard and tearoom.

Location: Portaferry Rd, Newtownards BT22 2AD

Castle Ward

Live in County Down and want somewhere new to explore with your dog? Check out Castle Ward - an 18th century estate that includes a castle, historic farmyards and land that stretches along Strangford Lough. It’s the perfect place for a scenic dog walk, as your furry friend is welcome on the estate, in the garden and even the Stableyard Tearoom.

Location: Strangford, Downpatrick BT30 7BA

Castle Coole

Love a bit of history? You won’t be short of things to do in Northern Ireland with your dog! Managed by the National Trust, Castle Coole showcases neo-classical architecture - having been built in the 1790s. While dogs aren’t allowed inside the mansion, you can admire it from outdoors where dogs are welcome in the tea room, Beech Trail and Lake Walk Trail.

Location: Enniskillen BT74 6JY

Florence Court

This Irish country house is steeped in over 300 years of history, and is ideal for visiting with your pooch - where they’re welcome on the estate and in the garden. Be sure to keep your dog on a lead, and admire the building from the outside.

Location: Florence Court Demesne, Enniskillen BT92 1DB

Mussenden Temple, Northern Ireland

Dog-friendly places to eat in Northern Ireland

After all of that exploring, you’re going to need somewhere to eat! There are countless pet-friendly places to eat with your furry friend across the country, so below find a few tips and ideas for dining out with your dog in Northern Ireland.

Call ahead. If you’re new to the area or you’re a pet sitter in Northern Ireland, call ahead to check the restaurant, pub or cafe’s rules around bringing dogs. Some places might welcome dogs in the entire establishment, while others restrict dogs to outdoor seating or the bar area.
Explore your local pubs. Northern Ireland is bursting with iconic pubs with local charm - like White’s Tavern or The Dirty Onion in Belfast, The Hillside in Hillsborough or The Fullerton Arms in Ballintoy.
Try the local produce. Northern Ireland is home to a whole host of delicacies that you’ve got to try at least once - look for champ, Irish stew, soda bread and barmbrack on the menu - just to name a few.

St. George's Market, Belfast

Dog-friendly festivals in Northern Ireland

Not only is Northern Ireland home to pet-friendly restaurants, pubs, cafes and tourist destinations, there are also a few dog festivals to keep on your radar. We’ll explore a few below to get you started.

Dog Royal

Dog Royal is ideal if you’re totally pooch-obsessed - check out the next event for a day of agility shows, scent demonstrations and have-a-go activities.

Location: Gravelhill Rd, Lisburn BT27 5RW

The Big Dog Day Out

Held at Wild River Dog Park in Ballynahinch, The Big Dog Day Out is ideal for anyone canine-obsessed (and their pups, naturally). Keep an eye out for the next event if you live nearby and you like the sound of expert talks, dog-related market sellers, live music and live dog demos.

Location: 42 Riverside Rd, Ballynahinch BT24 8TY

Dog-friendly destinations in the UK

So, know where you want to go house sitting, or own a pooch and welcoming a pet sitter soon? Perfect! Start with our travel guides to popular dog-friendly destinations in the UK below, and explore our blog for more.

Dog-friendly Belfast

Fancy visiting the birthplace of the RMS Titanic, or live nearby with a canine companion? Well firstly - you won’t be short of house sitting opportunities in Belfast - the best (and most cost-effective) way to see the city. As a pet sitter or local dog owner, explore Ormeau Park or the Maritime Mile for walkies, and stop by a cosy, dog-friendly place to eat like The Lamppost Cafe, The Pocket and Harlem Cafe. Pubs are also your friend when it comes to dining out with your pooch - check out Sunflower Public House for a dog-friendly beer garden or Kelly’s Cellars.

And if you’d like more local recommendations, check out our full guide to dog-friendly Belfast.

Dog-friendly Newcastle

Venturing across to Newcastle for house sitting, have a pooch of your own in the city, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Either way, there are heaps of things to do in this vibrant city. From Heaton and Leazes Park - both perfect for dog walking - to Tynemouth Priory and Castle or Hadrian’s Wall, you’ll never run out of pet-friendly activities. For more ideas on things to do and places to eat, head to our guide to dog-friendly Newcastle.

Dog-friendly Liverpool

With its eclectic musical history and buzzing town, we wouldn’t blame you for planning an adventure house sitting in Liverpool as a trusted pet sitter. From the historic waterfront to the Mersey and Liverpool Cathedral, the city is bursting with pet-friendly things to do. For help planning a day out, check out our guide to dog-friendly Liverpool.

Dog-friendly Leeds

Once a key player in the Industrial Revolution, Leeds is now a hub of art and culture - the perfect place to look for house sitting opportunities or welcome a pet sitter. From parks galore (Roundhay and Golden Acre are particularly popular), to restaurants and pubs that welcome dogs - like Wapentake and The Roundhay Fox - you’ll never be scratching your head for things to do. And for more ideas to help plan your day out, head to our guide to dog-friendly Leeds.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Dog-friendly things to do in Northern Ireland: tips from locals

Want even more local ideas on things to do in Northern Ireland? Stay right where you are for tips and advice from local residents and pet sitters from our Community Forum.

“I have driven the Northern Ireland Causeway coastal route which is fantastic. You start in Belfast and drive North. If you watched Game of Thrones, it was all filmed there” - @Chrissy
“Titanic Belfast - an incredibly well curated experience where the Titanic was built in Belfast, Northern Ireland.” - @Lindsay
“If you’re flying into Dublin, hopping on a bus up to {Northern Ireland} to pick up {a rental car} might save you enough to be worth the detour.” - @Lindsay

Castle Ward, Northern Ireland

Dog-friendly Northern Ireland: statistics and fun facts

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

The most pet-friendly place to rent in the UK is Belfast - with an impressive 97% of landlords accepting renters with pets.
There were approximately 266,367 pet dogs in Northern Ireland
Pet dogs in Northern Ireland account for 2.1% of the total UK dog population.
Northern Ireland has over 170 dog-friendly pubs, restaurants and cafes.
Both County Down and County Antrim have six dog-friendly beaches each, while County Londonderry has two.

Sources: Hillarys, Dogs Trust, Belfast Live, The Beach Guide

Tips for pet parents

Follow local restrictions. Always get clued-up on the local rules before visiting somewhere new with your canine companion - most National Trust properties require dogs to be kept on a lead, and pups should be kept under control when walking in an area near livestock.
Make the most of local beaches. If it’s peak season, head out in the morning where there may not be restricted access for dogs, and make the most of Northern Ireland’s coastline during the winter months when there are fewer tourists.
Get your holiday pet care sorted. It’s all very well planning a day out while you’re in town, but why not keep your pooch happy during your next holiday by welcoming a trusted pet sitter? By simply exchanging in-home pet care for a place to stay, your furry family can have the staycation of their dreams - at a fraction of kennel costs. Click below to find out more about how it works.

Northern Ireland pet sitters

How it works

Tips for pet sitters

Want to see Northern Ireland for yourself? Well by becoming a trusted pet sitter, you can travel the country while caring for pets - simply exchanging in-home pet care for a place to stay. Sound good? Make a note of our tips below.

Follow the pet’s schedule. Keep up with your new furry friend’s exercise routine and ask pet parents about their favourite places for walkies. That way, you can easily follow local rules and walk your new pet pal where they’re most comfortable.
Check out local eateries. Northern Ireland is home to a whole host of dog-friendly places to eat, so call up beforehand to double check they still welcome four-legged guests before dining amongst locals in a cosy eatery nearby.
Find a place to stay in exchange for pet sitting. So, fancy seeing the Giant’s Causeway for yourself, or hiking the Belfast Hills - without paying a penny for accommodation? Swap in-home pet care for a place to stay to get your fur-filled adventure started. Click below to find out more.

House sitting in Northern Ireland