Festive dog-friendly breaks around the UK

A travel expert shares the UK holiday hotspots for dog lovers

As we find ourselves in the heart of autumn, eagerly awaiting the Christmas holidays, many of us will be planning a weekend away to enjoy the festive fun away from home. 

While many cheap European destinations promise their last few weeks of sun before the cold sets in, for dog-loving families looking for a break, a UK staycation could be the perfect choice for everyone in the family to enjoy. In fact, over the last few years, December has consistently seen a spike in Google searches for ‘dog friendly holidays’. 

Hannah Evans, Insight Manager at dog-friendly holiday provider Away Resorts, has shared his top festive dog-friendly breaks around the UK ahead of the Christmas period. 

1. Beach getaways

One of the first dog-friendly holiday ideas in the UK to consider is having a beach getaway with your pup. It’s hard to beat a break away where your furry friend gets to splash in the waves and trail across the sand, particularly with many UK beaches lifting their dog bans at this time of the year. 

Cornwall

When it comes to beaches, Cornwall is a top spot, and certainly a true dog lover's paradise. You’ll find miles of golden sandy beaches that welcome pups all year round. Let your dog off their lead for a refreshing dip in the waters at Fistral Beach, or enjoy a scenic coastal walk along Perranporth Beach.

North Wales 

North Wales also makes for one of the best dog-friendly holiday ideas in the UK. This region provides the perfect backdrop for a dog-friendly beach break, with places like Rhyl Beach's long, sandy stretch. The quaint seaside town of Llandudno also offers access to several dog-welcoming beaches, including the iconic West Shore.

2. Walking holidays 

Another one of the best dog-friendly holiday ideas in the UK is going on a walking trip. From scenic woodlands to coastline cliffs, you can never be short of perfect walking spots on a UK staycation.

The Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is a true haven for dogs and their owners who love walks, with plenty of scenic trails and paths to discover. You can explore the dramatic Needles at Alum Bay, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the peaceful woodland of Parkhurst Forest. You can also walk along the scenic Ventnor Downs, a National Trust location.

Dorset

The picturesque coastline of Dorset is another ideal destination for walking holidays with your dog. For one, the Jurassic Coast is famous for its many scenic stretches of sand, fascinating fossils to discover, and landmarks like Durdle Door. You can also tackle a section of the South West Coast Path, which offers breathtaking sea views and plenty of opportunities for your pup to stretch their legs.

3. Escapes to nature

Some more dog-friendly holiday ideas in the UK involve an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life into the rolling countryside or forests of the UK, particularly beautiful during autumn and winter.

Scotland 

With its peaceful lochs and glens, Scotland is a dream destination for those wanting to escape to nature with their dog. You and your dog can explore the rugged landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park or discover the stunning Loch Lomond on a nature walk, where your dog can roam freely and enjoy all that the Scottish landscape has to offer.

Hampshire 

The diverse landscapes of Hampshire provide the perfect nature playground for dogs and their owners, especially because this is where you’ll find the enchanting New Forest. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the ancient woodland, exploring new trails and natural sights with your four-legged friend.

4. Cultural trips 

Another one of the best dog-friendly holiday ideas in the UK is to turn your trip into a cultural getaway, full of new experiences in different cultures around the UK. The best way to do this is to explore unique activities and historical sights in your chosen location. Some top spots include:

Lincolnshire 

Discover the rich history of Lincolnshire, with its beautiful city, bursting with culture. You can visit the charming market, such as Cornhill Market, which offers a cultural experience that's perfectly suited for a dog-friendly day trip. Your dog can also accompany you as you explore the impressive Lincoln Cathedral, a staple of this region’s historical significance.

Yorkshire

The next great spot for culture-rich, dog-friendly holidays in the UK is Yorkshire. From the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales to the vibrant city of York, Yorkshire is a diverse region that welcomes dogs with open arms. Many of Yorkshire's historic sites are dog-friendly – such as Whitby Abbey and Castle Howard – allowing you to immerse yourself in the region's cultural heritage with your four-legged friend by your side.

Hannah Evans, Insights Manager at Away Resorts, says:  “With a growing appetite for more dog-friendly breaks that allow the whole family, including pets, to enjoy the Christmas break, staycations provide the perfect way to explore without any restrictions. 

“Whether you have a day or a week to spare, the UK is home to so many dog-loving destinations, ideal for your four-legged friends. Forest trails, nature walks, lakes and picture-perfect coastlines are just a few of the beautiful landscapes the UK has to offer.”