Dog-friendly Cottages in Wales
Choose from some of the most beautiful dog-friendly cottages Wales has to offer, featuring a range of fabulous self-catering properties in both North Wales and South Wales. Whether you're looking for a rural retreat or sanctuary by the sea, snoop out the perfect hideaway for you and your hound.
- Llanwrthwl, WalesThe stunning location of Gorsddu is just one of its surprises when you arrive. You can’t tell by looking at this beautifully restored property that the original house, built before 1840, was the size of, what is now the living room. What was once a cowshed added in about 1901, is now a fitted kitchen. Records show that the owner’s great, great, great grandfather purchased the property in 1848 for £65 and it has been painstakingly built and renovated by the family using mostly their own home grown oak. Now the luxurious house of Gorsddu boasts huge panoramic windows from the spacious sun room that looks out over the eastern edge of the rolling Cambrian Mountains known as the ’roof of Wales’. You will probably want to while away many hours with a pair of binoculars and a drink and soak up the stunning scenery. From mid April to mid June you will often hear the plaintive call of the cuckoo.
The hamlet of Llanwrthwl, nearest to Gorsddu, lies on the River Wye south of Rhayader. From here you can take a walk, part of the National Trust Abergwesyn Common know as the Llanwrthwl Horseshoe Walk which starts at the church taking you through mountain moorland and peat bogs. The National Cycle Trail also passes through here, and with the Élan Valley cycle path close by, this area really is a haven for cyclists. The property is also well accommodated for keen cyclists, with a lockable shed for storage of up to seven bikes, and it also acts as a drying room.
To the north west is the RSPB nature reserve called Carngafallt, a heather clad hill with slopes covered in ancient hanging oak woodlands. Legend says that King Arthur’s dog, Gafallt, left his paw print in a stone somewhere on Carngafallt. It was also here that a hoard of bronze age gold jewellery was found, now in the National Museum of Wales in Cardiff. In the churchyard next to the parish church of St Gwrthwl in Llanwrthwl is a huge standing stone.
The region is also home to spectacular dams and reservoirs of the Elan and Claerwen Valleys. Rich with rare wildlife, including the magnificent Red Kites, the area offers wonderful walking and some of the best mountain biking routes in the British Isles. Nearby Rhayader, about six miles, also renowned for being the canoeing capital of Europe, is best explored on foot where you should take time to discover the variety of independent shops and crafts where you’ll find everything from gifts to the essentials. There is a good choice of places to eat, where you can try traditional Welsh dishes and home cooked comforts, and for a friendly evening out, there are pubs in every direction each with its own welcoming atmosphere. There is also a convenience store, petrol station and cafe situated just two miles down the road from the property, so guests are within easy reach of essentials!
Other places to visit nearby include Wales’ most central town Llandrindod Wells, known locally as ’Llandod’ it was developed as a spa town in the 19th Century. Builth Wells, the interesting market town now famous for the annual Royal Agricultural Show and numerous smaller shows and fairs throughout the year. LLanwrtyd Wells, reputedly the smallest town in Britain, also has lots going on including the wacky events of bog snorkelling and Man Versus Horse marathons. Shop 2½, pub and restaurant 6 Miles.£91From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Swansea, WalesCome and enjoy Morfa House, this spacious property is the perfect base for family and friends wanting to discover Swansea, the Gower Peninsular and the surrounding area. Nestled in Landore, 5 minutes from Swansea City Centre with excellent bus and train routes nearby into the city to discover this fantastic area, close by the Liberty Stadium home of Swansea City Football club hosts lots of events throughout the year and the Stunning Gower Peninsular is around a 10 minute drive. A short walk from Morfa House and you can enjoy a host of eateries, shopping centres, Parks and even a brewery specialising in welsh ales close by.
On the ground floor the open plan living and dining room offers the perfect bright and airy space to relax in after a busy day sightseeing which leads onto a modern galley style kitchen with solid oak tops, perfect for cooking that special meal and this leads onto your enclosed courtyard garden with patio furniture to take in some sea air. On the first floor each bedroom has been thoughtfully decorated and well furnished with the master suite boasting an En-suite bathroom.
Morfa House is close to a plethora of beaches and has easy access to the Gower Peninsula with Langland Bay, Caswell Bay Beach and Three Cliffs Bay only 30 minutes away, you can also enjoy an early evening stroll along The Mumbles with some fantastic views out across the Carmarthen Bay, here you can visit Mumbles Pier and Bracelet Bay and then enjoy a meal in one of the many eateries along the shore.
Take a trip to Laugharne where a tour of Thomas Dylan’s former home is just one of the places to discover in the area. A great day out is the National Botanical Gardens of Wales, Aberglasney Gardens, and the famous walled coastal town of Tenby all within reach and perfect for day trips.£84From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Rhos on Sea, WalesThis 400 year old white-washed, semi-detached holiday cottage, ½ mile from the beach, is tucked away in Rhos-on-Sea next to the owner’s home and has plenty of character with stone walls and beams, and sea views from the double bedrooms. The Victorian resort of Llandudno with the famous Great Orme, which has superb views from the summit, is only a short drive away. Enjoy the Welsh Mountain Zoo at Colwyn Bay. Bryn Euryn Nature Reserve is opposite the cottage with views of the Little Orme and coastline. Dine at the American diner located just 175 yards away. Golf nearby. Shops, pubs and restaurants ½ mile.£54From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Betws-y-Coed, WalesGuests will fall in love with The Barn at Gelli Newydd, its setting but also the wonderful design and finish, crafted with the finest materials and maintaining the ambience of a luxury Welsh Barn. Beautiful local Welsh larch cladding and natural stone encapsulate a slick and welcoming barn perched high on a hillside above Trefriw, between Conwy and Betws-y-Coed. The Shaker Kitchen Company kitchen is the focal point of a fabulous house, with open plan living and capacious living/dining room, the ideal focal point for friends and family to gather, here we have the perfect setting to enjoy views across the stunning Conwy valley below. The luxuriously appointed downstairs bedroom makes this suitable for different generations and can be set up as Superking or singles on request - meaning ultimate flexibility for your party. Welcoming 3 dogs with enclosed rear garden, this is a place for families and friends to gather and holiday in fantastic surroundings. There are two good pubs, a café, and restaurant, all within walking distance (approx. 15 mins down the hill and slightly longer on the way back up!). The Finnish wood fired hot tub is the perfect place to relax & enjoy a glass of bubbly under the stars.
This is a charming, unspoilt part of beautiful North Wales is a region rich in outdoor action and adventure, from the world’s first inland surfing lagoon-Surf Snowdonia, zip wires at Zip World, high ropes, and cavern trampolines, to the many forest walks, mountain bike trails, hills, lakes and rivers for which the area is rightly famous for. People travel from all over Europe to have a go on Zip World - booking is vital. Join scenic footpaths straight from your doorstep, go onwards and upwards from the cottage and you’ll come to two lovely, little-visited lakes, Llyn Geirionydd and Llyn Crafnant. Trefriw has a vibrant heart, so expect a friendly welcome at the post office/shop, the award-winning butchers, the fantastic working woollen mill, in the two pubs, and in the brasserie and local café. Trefriw is blessed with two of the most spectacular lakes (Geirionydd and Crafnant). Both lakes lie in the most stunning surroundings and offer different facilities. Geirionydd offers watersports for everyone (paddle and powerboating) whilst Crafnant is a much more peaceful environment. The community lead project Trefriw Trails has 8 waymarked trails which are suited to all ages and abilities for walking and cycling.
This property can be booked with The Farmhouse (ref QC1739) and The Bothy (ref QC1740) to accommodate up to 15 guests.£197From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Blaenau Ffestiniog, WalesOnce inside you’re greeted by a stylish cottage with fabulous open plan kitchen, dining and seating area, a great social space to enjoy a tipple and cook up an evening meal in the fully equipped kitchen. There’s also a snug sunroom leading out to a balcony with decking and seating area that takes advantage of the fantastic views of the Moelwyn mountain range. A further separate large living room with wood burning stove and doors leading out to the rear courtyard area. You’ll find it difficult to decide which is your favourite spot to relax in this cottage. There’s three very spacious bedrooms with stylish furnishings, and two bathrooms one with shower over the bath and a separate walk-in quality shower. Perfect for families and friends alike.
The area is a Mecca for any outdoor enthusiasts, with bike trails, climbing, kayaking, and walking routes in abundance. Only a few minutes away is Llechwedd Slate Caverns/Zip World; a great day out for the kids and adults alike. You’re only, a short drive from Betws Y Coed, known as the gateway to the Snowdonia National Park. Just further on from here is the famous Surf Snowdonia. Also, within easy reach is Porthmadog, home to the Welsh Highland Railway and the famous Black Rock Sands, and Harlech is also only a short drive away - a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization world Heritage Site with its imposing castle and simply stunning beaches well worth a visit. You’ll certainly not be short of sights to see in this diverse area.£107From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Bala, WalesThis detached cottage is ideal for friends and family wanting to get together. Set in a rural location yet only a short drive to amenities. There’s plenty of space for all the family to relax inside with spacious kitchen dinner leading on form here into the lounge, with vaulted ceilings and cosy log burner. Outside you’ll find a covered terrace area with seating a great area to take in the peaceful surroundings, not forgetting the private wood fired Hot Tub perfect no matter the weather.
Surrounded by the dramatic landscape of the Snowdonia National Park, this makes a great base from which to explore the area. The historic town of Bala is just over 2 miles distance and has a wide range of cafés and eateries and welcoming pubs, a leisure centre with swimming pool and sports hall. There are water sports both on the lake and close by at the White-Water Rafting Centre, as well as a golf course. The area is a mecca for bike enthusiasts with an abundance of trails to explore. Also within easy reach are the sandy beaches of the Cardigan Bay Coast, just 23 miles away at Barmouth.£83From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Capel Bangor, WalesIn a rural setting but located just five miles east of the seaside town of Aberystwyth, and with beautiful views of the Rheidol Valley, Maes Rheidol is a detached property, furnished and equipped to a very high standard. With all rooms on the ground floor and with the added bonus of a conservatory and outdoor hot tub in the patio garden, you can enjoy relaxing in this wonderful location.
Picture yourself sitting on a sandy beach overlooking Cardigan Bay watching dolphins, cycling down country lanes, walking in the hills, or just strolling through one of many market towns. You can escape life’s hustle and bustle and enjoy this region in so many ways. It’s the perfect location to book a family holiday, a romantic getaway, a short break or a weekend away.
The dignified Victorian resort of Aberystwyth with its electric cliff railway, promenade and pier is close by, as are the compelling Cambrian Mountains, dotted with hill sheep farms, forest and lakelands. Take a stately meandering train ride on what was once a working link between local lead mines and the harbour; the Vale of Rheidol Railway now runs a steam train service through the Rheidol Valley terminating at Devil’s Bridge. Here you can choose to go and see the three bridges over the river, or visit some of the other attractions such as the famous Mynach Falls, Devil’s Punch Bowl and Jacob’s Ladder.
When you have finished exploring, the cottage is within half a mile of a gastro pub. Come and stay at Maes Rheidol and immerse yourself in all that this part of Wales has to offer, you won’t be disappointed.£82From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Llangrannog, WalesEscape to the enchanting Ceredigion coastline and discover the epitome of seaside living at Great Tree House. This stunning bungalow, nestled within its own private grounds, promises an idyllic retreat with breathtaking sea views. Just a leisurely mile away lies the picturesque seaside village of Llangrannog, adorned with charming pubs, inviting cafés, and a sandy beach that beckons you to unwind. Great Tree House is not just a holiday home; it’s a haven of comfort, meticulously designed by professionals to offer you the ultimate West Wales experience.
Spread across one level, this beautiful property boasts two outdoor decking areas accessed via the bi-fold doors in the living room that provide the perfect vantage points for taking in the panoramic sea views. Imagine sipping your morning coffee or enjoying a barbecue dinner with the sun-kissed horizon as your backdrop. The extensive grounds are fully enclosed, making Great Tree House a peaceful haven for both children and your four-legged family members, should you choose to bring them along. Inside, you’ll find that no detail has been overlooked.
Great Tree House is beautifully furnished, exuding warmth and charm at every turn. It offers all the creature comforts you desire, ensuring your stay is as enjoyable as it is memorable. Whether you’re curled up by the fireplace with a good book or gathered around the dining table for a sumptuous meal, this holiday home envelops you in a cosy ambiance.
For those looking to explore beyond the confines of this coastal retreat, Llangrannog is just a short drive away. Here, you can indulge in the vibrant village life, sample local delights at the charming pub, stock up on essentials at the village shop, or bask in the sun on the sandy shores. The central car park makes accessing the village and beach effortless. But the wonders of Ceredigion don’t stop there. Venture further afield, and you’ll discover an array of day trip opportunities to vibrant towns like Cardigan, New Quay, and Aberaeron. Explore their unique attractions, enjoy fresh seafood, and soak up the rich local culture. Whether you’re seeking relaxation by the sea, exciting adventures, or simply a tranquil escape, this impeccably designed holiday property offers it all. Don’t miss the chance to experience coastal living at its finest.£122From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Preseli Hills, WalesY Beudy really does offer the perfect location to discover this stunning unspoilt part of Pembrokeshire. Nestled on a wooded valley and on the edge of the truly beautiful Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and Preseli Mountains, Y Beudy is set on a 40-acre family farm complete with peafowl, goats, geese and chickens. Accessed via a rough, ½ mile track, the detached cottage is located adjacent to the owner’s farmhouse, just 2 mile from the hamlet of Crymych which offers a local pub where you can enjoy some home cooking and local ales, along with a variety of shops.
The cottage offers a spacious open plan living space with superb slate flooring running through the kitchen and living room. Enjoy cooking that special meal in the large kitchen complete with a farmhouse table ideal for all the family and friends to get together. The cottage boasts two living rooms, so your children can relax on the first floor whilst you have your feet up downstairs with a glass of wine. Y Beudy has been lovingly furnished throughout and each spacious first floor bedroom offers the bonus of en-suite facilities. On an evening you can enjoy dining al fresco on your patio with picture postcard valley views.
There is much to explore in the surrounding area. Cardigan Bay and the dramatic north Pembrokeshire coastline, which includes some truly beautiful beaches such as Poppit Sands, Newport Sands and Mwnt, are within a 20-minute drive. A visit to Cenarth Falls really is not to be missed and if timed well you can see the fantastic sight of salmon leaping up the falls. Enjoy a short trip to the Welsh Wildlife Centre in Cilgerran, which runs along the banks of the River Teifi, made famous for coracle fishing. A great day out for all is the walled town of Tenby complete with a beach, cobbled streets and a host of eateries and craft shops. Beach 9 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.£85From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Fishguard, WalesRose Cottage is nestled within the picturesque harbour town of Goodwick and boasts picture postcard views out over the Fishguard harbour and across the turquoise seas. This delightful property has been fully renovated in 2022 to a very high standard throughout whilst retaining character and charm, and dates back to 1840. Teaming with history with beams, quarry tiles and the contemporary kitchen was once the holding cell for the courthouse located next door. It lies a 5-minute walk from the pretty harbour, complete with coffee shops, restaurants and a local pub where you can enjoy some Welsh ales. The delightful town of Fishguard is about a 20-minute walk and well worth exploring, along with the lower town of Fishguard where the River Gwaun meanders through the valley.
Superbly furnished throughout this spacious detached cottage is spread over two floors with an open plan kitchen and dining room that leads up to the raised garden that offers sublime views over the property and out to sea. On an evening you can curl up in front of the wood burner with a good movie or enjoy a book in the second living space which is perfect for unwinding after a busy day sightseeing. Both of these rooms enjoy sea views. On the first floor each bedroom has been lovingly furnished to a high standard with the majority of bedrooms enjoying sea views, and the family bathroom really is beautiful with a solid stone resin, freestanding double ended bath, perfect for a good soak.
From the property you can take on some of the 186 miles of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, passing golden sandy beaches, coves and dramatic coastline. Travelling west is St David’s, Britain’s smallest city, complete with its cathedral and adjacent 13th-century Bishops Palace. Further along the coastline is Newgale, ideal for all of the family with fishing, surfing and kayaking in abundance. The famous walled town of Tenby makes for a great day out, along with Wales’ largest theme park, Oakwood, and Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo.
Rose Cottage is almost 200 years old, so walls are rarely straight and some doorways may require taller guests to duck, as will the top of the stairs approaching the landing. It’s all part of the character and charm of this wonderful harbour cottage. Beach 250 yards.£102From price per night based on 7 night stay