8 Best Cities & Towns for a Dog-Friendly Holiday 2025

The UK is becoming increasingly more dog-friendly. Many cities and towns warmly welcome furry friends with open paws into their establishments. This makes a dog-friendly holiday with our beloved canine companions a lot easier! After all, holidays are much more fun when our four-legged friends can join us too.

Within this article, we explore the 10 best cities and towns for a dog-friendly holiday this year. We also showcase the top pet-friendly hotels in each destination so you can book the pawfect retreat with your dogs.

1. The City of London!

Where better to start than our capital city. London scored a significant 99% dog-friendly rating and we are not surprised. With over 3,000 parks and green spaces, at least 513 dog-friendly cafes, and tons of dog-friendly events, there are plenty of places you can go with your pup in London.

Enjoy long dog walks in Hyde Park before stopping by a dog-friendly cafe or restaurant like Ozone or Gaucho. If you like to shop when you’re in the city, many will allow your four-legged friend to browse with you – including Liberty!

Dog-Friendly Hotels in London

At PetsPyjamas, we have a whole host of dog-friendly hotels that will welcome both feet and paws through their doors. If you would like to spend your mornings strolling through Hyde Park, then a hotel like the Royal Lancaster will be your ideal base.

Alternatively, The Rubens At The Palace is the closest hotel to Buckingham Palace, and One Aldwych is near the restaurants and theatres! To be close to the museums and shops, you’ll want to book your stay at the beautiful Egerton House – Harrods is just next door!

2. Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk

Did you know Bury St Edmunds was crowned the UK’s most dog-friendly town in 2024? This is because this lovely town is home to over 100 businesses that welcome dogs. During your dog-friendly holiday here, look out for all the Blue Paw Print logos which indicate the establishment is dog-friendly!

Shops, eateries, even tours and attractions have embraced Bury St Edmunds pet-friendly policy! So, we’re sure you’ll find exploring a breeze when you visit this delightful UK town. Even the St Edmundsbury Cathedral is dog-welcoming. You can also visit the famous Abbey Gardens, Nowton Park, and a variety of country parks like West Stow and Clare Castle.

Dog-Friendly Hotels Near Bury St Edmonds

Our nearest dog-friendly property to Bury St Edmonds is the lovely Tuddenham Mill. A beautiful converted water mill set in 12 acres of land. Here, you can expect award-winning dining, a fantastic location for exploring, and the ultimate bedroom comforts.

3. Brighton, East Sussex

One of the best dog-friendly coastal cities in the UK. In fact, it’s said that Brighton has the most dog-related meet up groups than any other city in the UK! With a long cobbled beach and the South Downs a stone’s throw away, Brighton is excellent for walkies with your furry friends.

Plenty of attractions await your visit with your dog in Brighton. For example, you can wander around the Brighton Pavilion or pounce onto the 19th-century Volk’s Electric Railway for an adventure together. Afterwards, drop by the unique Laughing Dog Cafe (a half cafe, half art gallery) for some tasty drinks and a snack.

Dog-Friendly Hotels in Brighton

Overlooking the English Sea, No.124 by GuestHouse is a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel! Not only do they welcome dogs with open arms, but this pet-friendly hotel is filled with amazing amenities to ensure both you and your dog have a fun getaway. Your canine companion will feel truly welcome when they receive their cosy dog bed and access to a complimentary pantry full of treats!

You’ll love the atmosphere in this stunning accommodation, particularly the shiny disco ball that glistens above as you enter through the doors.

4. York, North Yorkshire

York is a wonderful northern city that is super dog-friendly with at least 45 dog-friendly pubs, cafes and restaurants. Plus, within York’s delightful cobbled streets you’ll discover 124 pet shops! What dog doesn’t love picking out a new toy on holiday?

The Shambles charming narrow streets are unmissable! Here, you’ll discover a variety of dog-friendly shops and cafes that will welcome you and your furry friend in with open arms. Adventurous canines will also love exploring all 25 parks and gardens after roaming the picturesque streets. In particular, York Knavesmire boasts lots of green space where your dog can run free.

Dog-Friendly Hotels in York

York is one of PetsPyjamas favourite northern getaways, and where better to stay than the stunning No.1 by GuestHouse? A beautiful historic Townhouse, No.1 by GuestHouse has bounds of charm, with pantries bursting full of treats for humans and hounds.

5. Lymington, Hampshire

The lovely marina town of Lymington is a wonderful destination for a dog-friendly holiday. In fact, Lymington was ranked as the best dog-friendly holiday hot spot in the UK last year! Not only is it surrounded by the New Forest and its 169 walking trails, but also Lymington is home to an array of attractions that welcome four-legged friends.

Embark on a boat ride along the beautiful Beaulieu River, explore the fascinating Hurst Castle, and visit the New Forest Reptile Centre. There is heaps to see and do during an escape to Lymington.

Dog-Friendly Hotels in Lymington

Lymington’s welcoming nature extends to their charming dog-friendly accommodation. We recommend The Mayflower, a stylish coastal retreat and an AA Four-Star Gold Inn. With a nautical theme throughout, you’ll love the spacious rooms boasting beautiful views over Lymington Harbour. During a stay here, you’ll be in the centre of a true treasure trove of fabulous places to see and sniff.

6. Gloucester, Cotswolds

You will witness lots of other four-legged companions about when you visit the Cotswolds. In 2023, Gloucester was named one of the most dog-friendly holiday destinations in the UK, and this doesn’t change in 2025. With a variety of establishments extending a warm welcome to pets, Gloucester is one of our top cities to visit with the whole family.

Wander around the city and the docks, browse through the shops, and visit the Gloucester Cathedral – well-behaved dogs are welcome inside Monday to Saturday! And once your feet and paws start getting a little tired, stop by one of the many dog-friendly eateries. Guru Coffee House and Hubble Bubble are fabulous spots for a refuel.

Dog-Friendly Hotels Near Gloucester

We have a variety of lovely hotels in Gloucestershire. Whether you choose a 17th century coaching inn like Noel Arms in Chipping Campden, or a stunning manor house like Ellenborough Park, you’re sure to have a memorable getaway with your canine companion.

7. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh must be one of the most dog-friendly cities in the UK. This is hardly a surprise considering it was also home to the most loyal dog in the world – Greyfriars Bobby! According to the infamous story, in the 19th century, Bobby refused to leave his owner’s grave for 14 years! So, when you visit Edinburgh with your trusty hound, make sure to visit Greyfriars Bobby’s statue and leave a stick at the Bobby shrine.

Once you have paid respects to Bobby, explore the cobbled streets of Edinburgh including the Royal Mile and the colourful Victoria Street. If you have an adventurous canine, enjoy a bracing hike up to Arthur’s Seat – the remains of a dormant volcano! From the very top, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views of the city. As an alternative, you can also delight in lovely views from Calton Hill after a stroll.

Dog-Friendly Hotels in Edinburgh

The pawfect dog-friendly UK holiday can be had at any of our hotels in Edinburgh. The beautiful Black Ivy boutique is just 5-minutes from Edinburgh city centre, making it the ideal base for exploring all delightful attractions.

Or, if you’re looking to treat yourself, why not stay at the iconic Balmoral Hotel? Edinburgh’s most prestigious address, The Balmoral combines stunning views and warm hospitality. The resident dogs, Lucy and Bear, will be sure to greet you with a welcome pack for fellow furry travellers!

8. Bakewell, Derbyshire

One of the best towns for a dog-friendly holiday – and not just because of the Bakewell Tarts! The Peak District is one of the UK’s top destinations for dog-friendly walks, accommodations, shops, and eateries. It shouldn’t be surprising that Bakewell is home to a variety of dog-friendly cafes offering freshly baked treats!

We also love the Bakewell Old House Museum. Here, you can immerse yourself into the stories of Bakewell and the Peak District with your furry friend by your side. This delightful pet-friendly town is also where the annual Bakewell Dog Show takes place on Sunday 13th July – so mark your calendars!

Dog-Friendly Hotels in Bakewell

The location of the Robin Hood Farm B&B perfectly complements the picturesque village of Baslow. Nestled in beautiful hillside gardens, you will find lovely flowers, terraced lawns, and a stunning orchard. There is plenty of space for both of you to explore. Plus it gets better, the two dog-friendly rooms benefit from direct garden access!

Dog-Friendly Holidays with PetsPyjamas

When you book through PetsPyjamas, not only does your dog go free, but also you can choose from tons of fantastic exclusive offers. Our special packages include extras like afternoon teas, fine dining, spa treatments, and much more. This is all to ensure you have the ulti-mutt holiday with your canine companion.