With an estimated 49% of all UK adults owning a pet, it’s no surprise that more and more people are looking for pet-friendly accommodation for short breaks within the UK. The UK is rich with culture, with everything from beautiful countryside and picturesque beaches to historic ruins and waterside delights to behold. With so much on offer, it can be tricky to pin-point the exact location that would be most suited to your trip, with that in mind, here are 5 pet-friendly staycation destinations to consider:
Devon
The southwest county best known for its cream tea, Devon puts emphasis on the great outdoors, making it a fantastic location for a pet-friendly holiday. With everything from medieval towns, fossil covered cliffs and sandy beaches, Devon is an al fresco dream.
Must do: Head to the historic Devon railway centre for a fun filled afternoon. With the opportunity to explore the under-cover model railway exhibition, unlimited train rides and play coaches galore, it’s a fantastic day out. There’s also plenty of space in the riverside picnic area to have a bite to eat with your four-legged friend.
Norfolk
With its authentic coastal charm, traditional pier and off the beaten track sandy paths, Norfolk is high up the list when it comes to staycations. With mile after mile of pet-friendly beaches, there’s an opportunity to escape the busyness of city life and soak up the sea breeze.
Must do: Clippesby Hall is a must do for breath-taking views and facilities galore. The site is made up of a traditional manor house and everything from a swimming pool to mini golf, making it the perfect place for exploring the coast.
The Cotswolds
If it’s an adventure you’re after, then the stunning Cotswolds could well be the right place for you. Known not only for its quaint and rustic feel, the Cotswolds is home to a vast array of culture and heritage, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the rolling countryside. You’ll find pet friendly cottages in the Cotswolds in abundance, so you won’t be restricted when it comes to finding the perfect property for you. If that’s not enough, local eateries including pubs and cafes welcome dogs, meaning you can stop to refuel through a post-walk pitstop.
Must do: Head to Cotswolds Lavender for a fun filled day out. The third-generation family farm has field after field of home grown lavender, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Yorkshire Dales
From castles to caves, the Yorkshire Dales is jam packed full of exciting days out with your pets. Whether you want to explore the historic World Heritage Site of Fountains Abbey or the ruins of Pendragon Castle, there’s culture in abundance. The residents of Yorkshire are renowned for their welcoming, friendly manor, so after a full day on your feet, what better way to unwind than with some dog-friendly dining in one of the many local community pubs.
Must do: Head to Aysgarth Falls, situated on the River Ure, to check out the picturesque and oh-so impressive waterfalls. The famous scene in Robin Hood Prince of Thieves was filmed on the upper falls, making it the perfect memory-capturing photo spot.
North Wales
North Wales is a brilliant choice for a pet-friendly getaway, thanks to the varied landscape, with everything from rolling valleys to imposing mountain ranges. For something a little different, there’s also a pretty impressive copper mine, open as a dog-friendly tourist attraction.
Must do: For the ultimate challenge, set off on your very own pet adventure, travelling up the highest mountain in Wales, Snowden.