The Lake District’s gently rolling hills, picturesque towns, and majestic lakes have inspired countless artists and poets. The popular holiday destination in the north of England is a terrific place to enjoy outdoor activities with your dog. We’ve picked the Lake District’s top dog-friendly hotels so that you and your furry wee mate can enjoy walking the fells, visiting country pubs, and checking out the area’s historic sights together.
Waterhead Hotel
Address & Map: Lake Rd, Ambleside LA22 0ER
- Perched on the northern end of Lake Windermere, Waterhead Hotel is a 15-minute stroll from the town of Ambleside.
- The interior has a light, airy, contemporary vibe, and the 41 rooms (half of which have lake views) are generous in size with super-king beds.
- Dogs are welcome everywhere in the hotel with the exception of the restaurant which serves an above-average, brasserie-style menu.
- Doggy treats, dog beds, bowls, towels and a welcome letter are provided for your furry little mate.
- Walking routes and maps are also available if you fancy a hike.
- Charge £20 per night
Cragwood Country House Hotel
Address & Map: A591, Ecclerigg, Windermere LA23 1LQ
- Nestled on the shores of Lake Windermere, the Edwardian mansion has features like ivy-covered façades, worn-leather armchairs, wood-panelled walls, and log fires.
- The hotel has a private stretch of Lake Windermere, plus 20 acres of gardens and woodland to romp around in.
- Dogs are welcome in all of the bedrooms and lounges, but not in the dining room.
- On arrival your dog will receive a bowl, poo bags, and some yummy treats.
- There are walking routes to borrow plus a drying room for wet clothes.
- Ground-floor rooms allow access to the garden through French windows.
- Charge: £20 per stay.
The Wasdale Head Inn
Address & Map: Wasdale Head, Lake District CA20 1EX
- This farm turned inn has been a landmark at the head of the valley since the early 18th century.
- Remote and unspoiled location, beloved by walkers and climbers.
- Dogs are welcomed throughout the hotel except in the dining room—but if your bezzie mate can’t be left alone they’ll arrange for you to eat in another room.
- Free towels for wet and muddy dogs.
- There’s a popular main public bar, a small, cosy residents’ bar with piano, and riverside terrace to enjoy on warm days.
- Dogs are welcomed with a blanket, bowl, and treats in the traditional pub.
- Charge: £10 per night.
The Ryebeck Hotel
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlIHCWQA-mz/
Address & Map: Lyth Valley Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3JP
- This Edwardian country house has panoramic views of Windermere and five acres of garden.
- Staff are on hand to provide a list of walks right from the hotel door.
- Its restaurant serves Modern British cuisine made with carefully selected local ingredients.
- Six of the rooms are dog-friendly, all of which are situated on the ground floor with easy access to the gardens.
- With the exception of the restaurant, dogs are welcome throughout the hotel and gardens—but if you’d like to dine with your dog, you can do so in the lounge.
- Dogs receive their very own welcome pack here, including their own bed, two bowls, and a selection of treats!
- Charge: £20 per stay.
Inn on The Square
photo via Inn on the Square
Address & Map: Market Square, Keswick CA12 5JF
- Centrally located in the picturesque town of Keswick, the Inn on The Square’s handy location means that you’ll find shops, bars, and restaurants on its doorstep.
- Up to 2 dogs are allowed per room. Dogs can stay in 25 out of the 34 bedrooms.
- Dogs are welcome in the bar and lounge, but the AA rosette award-winning Brossen Steakhouse is unfortunately off-limits to dogs.
- Dogs are given beds and their own bowls. A hose pipe and dry towels are provided for muddy pups at the side entrance of the hotel.
- There are nearby outside public areas for dogs and Derwent Water is only a 10 minute wander away through the town if you feel like having a paddle.
- Charge: £10 per dog per night.
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Featured image: Inn on The Square
