Suffolk’s gently rolling hills and pretty woodlands have inspired countless novelists and artists—from Enid Blyton to John Constable. And both you and your dog will be inspired by the abundance of fantastic walks and friendly local pups you’ll encounter here. To ensure that you and your best friend receive a warm welcome when you decide to hit the pub after a long walk we’ve come up with a list of the best dog-friendly pubs in Suffolk—from cosy gastro pubs to traditional taverns, here’s our pick of the watering holes you won’t want to miss.

1. The Norman Warrior

Address & Map: Fir Lane, Lowestoft, NR32 2RB

The Norman Warrior has been listed in the Good Beer Guide every year since 2007, and even bagged CAMRA’s (Campaign for Real Ale) Pub of the Year in 2008 and 2010. As well as  six guest ales (usually locally sourced) and beers, they have an extensive range of wines and over 60 whiskies and gins. As well as the public bar and lounge area where you can enjoy a meal with your dog, there’s a large terraced garden. While you try their home cooked food made from locally sourced ingredients, your furry wee friends can get stuck into sausages or doggy treats—which they’ll be able to wash it down with a bowl of fresh water.

Head there on a Thursday if you want to take part in the pub quiz, or you can shoot some pool or have a friendly game of darts any day of the week. The Norman Warrior also runs the Lowestoft Beer Festival over the August Bank Holiday every year where punters can enjoy cider and live music along with their real ales.

2. The Carriers Arms

Address & Map: Heath Road, Colchester, CO7 6RA

After an exciting afternoon of hiking through the beautiful countryside and meeting other friendly dogs, your little mate can look forward to lots of attention from the friendly staff and customers at The Carriers Arms. The pub is nestled in the Suffolk countryside in the village of East Bergholt. Not only is the area very popular amongst dog walkers, it’s most well-known for its ties to the 18th and 19th century painter John Constable.

The 14th century Grade II listed pub is every bit the charming country pub you’d expect with a large fireplace and beamed ceilings. Dogs will love being made a fuss of here and the team will be sure to give them a nice bowl of water and a treat while you enjoy a lovely pint. If the sun’s got its hat on, head out to the huge beer garden which boasts a gorgeous fish pond. The pub also has a Facebook page with its own dedicated “doggie visitors” section so your dog will want to make sure they’re looking extra sharp when they pay a visit.

3. The Chequers

Address & Map: The Street, Woodbridge, IP13 7JT

The Chequers is a traditional country pub that is so warm, friendly, and welcoming to both people and their dogs that many a dog who has escaped from her back garden has ended up here. It could be because of the delicious biscuits and water that are always on offer or maybe they just know they’ll get a few cuddles from the staff!

Inside the historic watering hole you’ll find photos of the Deben brewery which once stood next to the pub but was demolished in 1867 after the owner failed to pay church taxes. The bar and restaurant offers a selection of real ales—it’s a Cask Marque accredited pub, so you’ll find a good choice of well-kept cask ales on the bar—and locally sourced homemade food. In the warmer months you and the dogs will love hanging out on the huge patio or in the two-acre garden  at the rear of the pub that leads down to the river Deben.

4. St. Jude’s Brewery Tavern

Address & Map: Saint Matthew’s Street, Ipswich, IP1 3EW

This small, friendly pub close to Ipswich town centre prides itself on its real ale. They offer up to 20 alternating beers and four ciders served from a barrels behind the bar, as well as some imported lagers and a selection of bar snacks. For four-legged patrons, they always have complimentary dog biscuits and bowls of water ready at the bar. They do ask that you keep your little buddies on their leads.

As well as three beer festivals per year, St. Jude’s hosts quiz nights on the second and fourth Sundays of the month, and the occasional comedy night, themed fancy-dress party, and live music session. It’s also conveniently close to the fabulous dog friendly cottages Woodfarm Barns, which are a short 20mn ride from the pub, in the in the heart of the beautiful rural Suffolk countryside.

5. The Bush Inn

Address & Map: Shimpling, Bury St Edmunds, IP29 4HU

This traditional village pub was built in the 16th century and converted into a pub in the 19th century but it still retains many of its original features including a flagstone floor and exposed beams. Your furry drinking buddy will also love curling up in front of the roaring log fire in the inglenook fireplace when the mercury drops. In the summer you can watch the world go by from the paved courtyard area to the front of the pub or under an umbrella within the sprawling, tranquil beer garden to its rear. The garden is enclosed so it’s a safe spot for all of the family to relax in. Well-behaved dogs on their leads are welcome in the bar area and gardens—just not in the restaurant area.

As well as a selection of guest ales, there’s a nice wine list to peruse and great dishes made from locally sourced ingredients (there are also vegetarian and gluten-free options). The Bush Inn regularly hosts events like wine and cheese tastings, darts tournaments, live bands, and steak nights—it’s safe to say that one might be your dog’s favourite!

If you’re in the mood for a pint but the little fella would rather relax at home don’t worry, we’ve got you! You can find a great local pet sitter or dog walker on Rover  who’ll treat your dog like family so you can both enjoy yourselves.

__

Featured image: THE CARRIERS ARMS FACEBOOK PAGE