Have you ever been on holiday and not been able to enjoy yourself because your favourite family member had to be left at home? We understand. You’ll be pleased to hear that the UK has a great selection of gorgeous, dog-friendly cottages to choose from, including remote farmhouses and cute retreats by the seaside. We’ve rounded up a few of our favourites here. Check out the list below and we guarantee that you and the little fella will want to start packing immediately!
Honest Cottage
Cornwall
Located just a few yards from the harbour on one of the oldest streets in St Ives, this cosy two-bedroom cottage sleeps four people. While from the outside it looks like a typical fisherman’s cottage, the interior has a light, contemporary feel, and boasts exposed beams made from the salvaged masts and spars from sunken ships. As well as all the mod cons you’d expect, it has a lovely decked terrace with a table and seating.
There are a number of dog-friendly beaches in St Ives, although access can be restricted in the summer months. Bamaluz beach, Lambeth Walk, and Porthkidney beach are accessible throughout the year.
Orchard View
County Fermanagh
Previously home to the farm workers of the Crom estate, Orchard View has now been restored into an inviting holiday home. The three-bedroom cottage sleeps four but if you have a larger party and need more space there’s an interconnecting door through to Willow Cottage. It has a sleek modern bathroom as well as gorgeous original features including large windows and an open fire for your furry little buddy to stretch out in front of on cold nights.
Situated mere metres from the shores of the Lough Erne, you’ll have access to picnic tables, wildlife, biking routes, a jetty that you can fish from, and canoe trails that take you along narrow channels and around scattered islands. The town of Enniskillen is just 20 miles away and as well as its castle it has a lot of dog-friendly pubs and cafes to explore.
Tal y Braich
Snowdonia
If you’re looking for a remote getaway, look no further than Tal y Braich. Situated on a working farm, this cosy stone cottage in the heart of Snowdonia has three bedrooms and sleeps five people (and two dogs). As well as spectacular views, a beautiful slate floor, and a wood burning fire, the cottage has a medium sized garden and patio area that’s perfect for al fresco dining in the summer.
If you and the dogs are into hiking you’re going to love exploring the Carneddau Range and Tryfan. There’s also access to canoeing, kayaking and the national mountain sports centre—Plas y Brenin—nearby.
Dark Skye Cottage
Isle of Skye
Is a romantic break for two (plus the dog) in order? Luxury is the order of the day at this bespoke cottage in an idyllic setting on the stunning Isle of Skye. While the outside is modelled on the traditional croft houses found all over the west coast of Scotland, the interior is modern and features everything you’d want from a holiday home including, underfloor heating, WiFi, a giant infinity roll top bath in the bedroom, and a generous hospitality pack.
Located on a working croft with livestock, you’ll enjoy having a fresh supply of eggs that can be dropped off to the cottage every morning if you so desire. And walkies with your furry wee friend don’t get much better. The cottage is set in its own private garden grounds so you’ll have the spectacular scenery to explore, but you’re also within walking distance to shops, pubs and restaurants.
The Lodge
The Lake District
No roundup of dog-friendly cottages would be complete without one in the beautiful Lake District. The Lodge is set on a private estate a mile from Lake Windermere and surrounded by lovely countryside. This recently refurbished holiday home sleeps four people and has a sitting room with a wood burning fire to cosy up next to, as well as a dining room which opens out onto a patio and large garden.
Your dog will love its easy access to hundreds of walks, including trails through the woods, up the fells or along the lakeside. From here you can also hire a rowing boat or take a cruise around the lake with your dog in tow!
Why not also check out our friends at Dog Furiendly’s guide answering the question – should I take my dog on holiday? Remember, if you’re heading somewhere you can’t take your dog, you can find plenty of loving dog sitters who provide dog boarding in London, Cardiff, Edinburgh and throughout the country on Rover.com! Or if you’ve had enough walkies for one holiday but your furry best mate hasn’t, Rover has wonderful dog walkers all over the country who’d love to take the little fella out for a wander while you put your feet up.
___
Featured image: Tal y Braich