Have dog, will travel: we’ve selected our favourite pooch-friendly places to stay in the UK and beyond.
There comes a time when you have to ask yourself: do I want to take the dog on a blissful luxury escape with me?
The answer is probably no. Until you see their face, mid-packing, that is. Sometimes, we just can’t shake the injustice: leaving our pooch behind riddles us with kennel guilt, but taking them opens realms of uncertainty. Where will we stay? Where will we eat? Drink? Relax?
Our holiday tips for happy dogs can provide you with plenty of alternative kennel options; but if you’re raring to take Buster on a doggy holiday, we’ve rounded up our the most beautiful places to stay.
The Devonshire Arms: Bolton Abbey, Yorkshire Dales, England
Image source: The Devonshire Arms / Facebook
The Devonshire Arms claims to be the most dog-friendly hotel in Yorkshire – and we can see why. The country house and spa pulls out all the stops for four-legged friends: we’re talking a dog lounge, pet-concierge services (who think of everything), and even specially designed four-poster beds you can book to make your pup feel like Lord of the Mutts. Don’t let them get too comfy though; there is plenty of walking to be done in the Dales – the walk alongside the River Wharfe from the hotel to Bolton Abbey is an absolute treat.
Top tip: The great British weather has a habit of catching us out. Make sure your tail-wagger is suited out in the finest raincoat – this Liberty Print cotton raincoat is fully waterproof and exquisitely stylish.
The Thief: Oslo, Norway
Image source: The Thief
Grab yourself a doggy passport and head to The Thief, Oslo’s art-laden luxury hotel that values woofs as much as its Warhols. Expect sleek design, unique spa treatments and even a disco-ball-inspired suite for boogie nights aplenty. Pups are treated to a VID (Very Important Dog) hamper with toy, treat and clean-up bags on arrival. All doggy amenities can be added to your room; including a special canine room service menu, dog-walking and sitting services (the pool beckons), and even birthday parties.
Top tip: Dogs can travel to continental Europe with the EU Pet Travel Scheme. Read our doggy holiday guide for more info on passports and other requirements.
The Byre: Exmoor, Devon, England
Image source: Airbnb.com
Nothing says doggy holidays like an escape to the country. Airbnb property The Byre is straight out of a Beatrix Potter book; hidden away down the deep lanes of Devon. Plus, it’s all yours: the spacious cottage, tranquil garden and 27 acres of ancient woodland. As well as the surrounding wildlife, the property has a smallholding of horses, ponies, goats, chickens, cats and one dog (plus yours, when you get there).
Top tip: Is there a chance your dog may go slightly bonkers at the sight of a chicken be put on a lead? If so, The Byre hosts request you put your pooch on a lead. For something stylish, sophisticated and long-lasting, this red velvet dog lead is the one.
The Goodwood Hotel: Chichester, West Sussex, England
Image source: Goodwood Hotel
This is British hospitality at its finest. As well as award-winning dining, elegant rooms and plenty of indulgence for humans, The Goodwood Hotel rolls out the red carpet for dogs. And that’s no overstatement – pooches actually gain access to their very own private members club here – The Kennels. Spend a night in the Hound Lounge where you will be serviced by a Goodwood butler, treating your pampered pup to impressive treats, such as organic pig ear. Dog-friendly walking maps are also on hand to plan out a brisk walkies in the beautiful surrounding estate.
Top tip: Make sure your hound looks the part, with this oh-so-British tweed dog collar.
The Cambrian: Adelboden, Switzerland
Image source: The Cambrian
If there’s one thing you cannot put a price on, it’s crisp Alpine air. Take your dog for the trip of a lifetime in the heart of the Swiss Alps: rich, verdant meadows await in summer… and in the winter? Ski-heaven. The Cambrian hotel is your perfect base to explore that stunning landscape; offering a luxurious spa, restaurant, hydrotherapy pool and (very important) accommodation for dogs. Pets can stay at the ultra-modern hotel for CHF35 a night (about £27).
Top tip: If you’re heading out in snowy climates, make sure you’ve got your dog’s attire all wrapped up. We’re talking striking, showerproof, hand-cut coats; like this red harris tweed number inspired by the stars of the 1960’s.
Sheehys at Springfield B&B: Celbridge, County Kildare, Ireland
Any place that has two resident Great Danes and three pugs is a winner in our books. Even better if it’s located on 12 acres of glorious dog-walking grounds in the beautiful Irish countryside. The Sheehys at Springfrield B&B is a Georgian manor house in County Kildare – and a paradise for pet-owners. Expect fabulous rooms filled with antiques and art, pristine gardens and homemade baked goods from the Airbnb hostess, Libby. You won’t be short of things to do; horse riding, golf, fishing and shopping are all within a few miles with easy access.
Top tip: You’re staying at an Irish manor – what to wear? Not you, the dog! Keep your mutt nice and toasty from the wind in this yellow snood made from 100% pure wool.
*Lead Image Source: The Devonshire Arms
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