Dog-friendly Shropshire
With varied landscapes featuring rolling hills, rivers, canals, and endless footpaths through fields and forests, Shropshire is a wonderful place for an adventurous dog-friendly escape. Whether you opt to explore the idyllic countryside, or uncover the heritage of the various medieval market towns, you and your pooch are sure to have a trip to remember.
- Shrewsbury, EnglandLittle Whitley is the former staff quarters to the main house, which started life in the 1600s, and has since been sympathetically restored into a stunning self-catering holiday property for up to four guests. The cottage lies within a private 200-acre family-run farm and boasts its own enclosed orchard and courtyard. The orchard leads on to a footpath which, in one direction, takes you to the village of Hookagate with a pub that welcomes dogs and is popular for food, and a regular bus service to Shrewsbury. In the other direction the footpath leads to Hanwood, also with a village pub and local shop. Whitley provides the perfect destination for couples, families and anyone looking for a relaxing rural retreat.
An open plan downstairs living area combines kitchen, dining and sitting room. Everything about this delightful space syndicates a rural, rustic elegance. The large wood burner creates a cosy feeling in the light, open space, without compromising on modern comforts with underfloor heating, Smart TV, Wi-Fi, and a well-equipped kitchen for those choosing to dine in on occasions. Conveniently next door is the first of the two bedrooms with a kingsize bed, lovely sky light allowing in lots of natural light and an en-suite presenting a wonderful double shower. There is also direct access to the garden from this bedroom. Upstairs the master bedroom has that real wow factor, framed by the original beams with a beautiful superking bed and a vanity area to enjoy, a unique window where you can see the sunset out across the farm. The en-suite also boasts luxury with double sinks, and a stunning freestanding bath and a double shower. Outside, there is a beautiful walled orchard garden, enclosed for you to let your pooch roam around, and or the children play to their hearts content, with table and chairs, perfect for al fresco dining. Whitley’s elevated position enables views of the Shropshire Hills, the Welsh Hills and Shrewsbury Town.
Dogs are more than welcome at Whitley and there is so much to explore with them in the local area, fantastic walks along the river or across Lyth Hill, or 15 minutes in the car will take you in to the Shropshire hills. Although the property is rural, you’ll be pleased to learn that Shrewsbury is only 10 minutes away by car or an easy bus journey. Set on the banks of the River Severn, Shrewsbury is one of the country’s most picturesque medieval towns. Dotted with flowers and parks, and renowned for the historic Shrewsbury Abbey and Castle, this bustling town is home to a lively independent shopping scene, restaurants, bars and some unforgettable days out. Ludlow is a thriving medieval market town in Shropshire and an architectural gem with a lively community feel, busy with events and festivals throughout the year and just under an hour away. From taking a stroll around the beautiful gardens to exploring the nearby countryside, even just sitting back relaxing and taking in the tranquillity of the cottage and its grounds, Little Whitley promises an idyllic holiday retreat.
Can be booked together with Whitley Burrow UK43594 to accommodate up to 6 guests.£90From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Ellesmere, EnglandIn a quiet location just 2½ miles from Ellesmere, this beautiful, detached, converted barn has been lovingly furnished to a impeccable standard with its own private, south facing garden and patio to the rear. The property is decorated with a Christmas theme during the festive season. Adjacent to the owner’s home, it is ideally placed for exploring the counties of Shropshire, Cheshire, mid and north Wales, and is surrounded by popular tourist destinations and attractions, such as Llangollen with its horse drawn canal barges, steam railway, white water rafting centre, Erddig and Chirk Castle, Powys Castle and Attingham Park. Chester racecourse and the medieval towns of Shrewsbury, Ludlow and Bridgnorth are an easy drive, not forgetting Ironbridge, a World Heritage Site. For the more active, go karting, paintballing and canoeing are all available nearby. Shop 1 mile, pub and restaurant 2½ miles.£64From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Oswestry, EnglandOccupying a central position in north Shropshire, Rose Barn is a semi-detached barn conversion set in well tended grounds and gardens offering a quiet and relaxing holiday home, with a paddock available for exercising dogs.The cottage is just a few miles out of Ellesmere, best known for its picturesque lakes and Shropshire Union Canal, and with a good choice of shops and bars. It is literally on the borders with neighbouring Cheshire and Wales, and with medieval Shrewsbury, Whitchurch, Wem and the old market town of Oswestry, all within a 30 minutes’ drive. The area has so much to offer guests of all ages and for those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are tandem sky dives, static line parachute jumps near to Whitchurch, hovercraft and Segway experiences near to Oswestry, and Rednal offers paintballing and go karting. Hawkstone Park Follies is great for a leisurely stroll and has events throughout the year, from medieval shows and jousting to 4 x 4 off road experiences. Wood Lane Nature Reserve is an ideal place for bird-watching and you can visit Shropshire Wildlife Trust at the Boathouse, where you can find out about walking in the area. Hill Valley Golf Club is nearby and there are four National Trust properties within an hour’s drive, including Powys Castle, Chirk Castle, Erddig, and Attingham Park. Shop 2½ miles, pub and restaurant 500 yards.£146From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Craven Arms, EnglandThis delightful property, located on the Delbury Hall Estate wedding venue, is semi-detached and includes use of an outdoor swimming pool. Situated in a peaceful spot within the lovely county of Shropshire, it is set between Wenlock Edge and the Clee Hills, on the edge of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Milking Barn offers guests spacious and comfortable accommodation in a quiet location for those looking to get away and relax, but also for those who wish to be more active and explore the countryside a little further.
There are many historic buildings in the area, including Ludlow, Stokesay, Croft and Powis castles, and the popular World Heritage Site at Ironbridge Gorge with its ten fascinating museums. Lower Corfton is 9 miles from the picturesque market town of Ludlow, with its many independently owned shops, pubs, and restaurants. Craven Arms is 5 miles away, which has a supermarket and selection of take-aways if a quiet evening in is preferred.
There is private parking on the driveway of the property and there is use of a private lawned garden to the side of the property, and a patio area with private garden furniture. As mentioned, there is an outdoor swimming pool on site and guests are able to use this and book times for private use with the owners. There is also a stable and paddock available (to be negotiated separately) for guests with a horse, and the property is situated next to a bridle path.£76From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Church Stretton, EnglandBetchcott is a hamlet near the village of Picklescott in Shropshire. It lies in the parish of Smethcott, in the northern foothills of the Long Mynd. The nearest town is Church Stretton. If it is time for a break away together, Keepers Cottage has you covered with all sorts of family friendly comforts. Even your dogs will find the large, enclosed garden a treat. Plus, if you would like to bring your horse along, yes you read that correctly, the owners can provide stables for up to six horses, along with a menage and three paddocks. There’s livestock on the farm and a beautiful private lake for everyone to enjoy, the owners are very close by and welcome you to enjoy all the facilities.
Inside, you have a well-equipped kitchen and dining area beneath wooden beams, complete with a Rayburn oven, fridge, dishwasher, and microwave. There is a roomy utility room, with more cooking facilities, a sink, and washing machine. Plus, a ground floor larder, with supplies and there is a ground floor toilet. Just off the kitchen is a lovely room for reading or playing board games, its light and airy and a great place to relax after a day out exploring.
The living room is open plan with the kitchen and dining area and very welcoming, offering a Smart TV and wood burner. The house was rebuilt in 2010 to a very high standard and features green oak beams and a warm, homely feel. Upstairs offers three bedrooms, sleeping up to six. The family bathroom is centred between them all, although the double does have an en-suite shower and toilet, so there won’t be any queues for the shower.
Outside Keepers Cottage is an expansive garden which loops around the property, including a decked area with outdoor furniture, a patio, and a large lawn for everyone to enjoy. The nearby pub is quintessentially English and is full of rustic charm and character, with oak beams, open fires, and a wonderfully warm atmosphere, only a short walk away.
Church Stretton is the main shopping area and has well known various independent shops from kitchen supplies to clothing. It also provides all the essentials with a supermarket and post office. The owners have plenty of recommendations for excellent places to eat around the wider area. You are within easy reach of the Shropshire Hills and The Long Mynd, which is excellent to explore by foot or bike and for anyone who enjoys nature.
Picklescott is ideally placed for access to Ride UK routes and the many miles of bridleways which criss-cross the Long Mynd for those bringing your horses. Further afield there is Ludlow, a thriving medieval market town and an architectural gem with a lively community feel, busy with events and festivals throughout the year. Perhaps the area’s charm is most evident in where you are staying, make use of the private lake for fishing or take a walk to soak in the breathtaking scenery. There is a lot to appreciate, and Keepers Cottage is sure to be a highlight of your next stay.£156From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Bishops Castle, EnglandHeron Cottage is a semi-detached cottage adjacent to the owner’s own home with country charm, and a warm, welcoming feel from the moment you arrive.
Located near the village of Hope boasting stunning views of Bromlow Callow Hill.
There’s a cosy living room with armchairs and a sofa gathered around a wood-burning stove, making it the perfect spot for a board game, or snuggling up with a film. The second sitting room/dining room offers a more comfortable space or a great area to enjoy a meal together. You’ll find the kitchen fully equipped for a self-catering holiday and there’s plenty of room for four around the table.
There is a family bathroom on this floor with a shower over the bath, convenient after a day out hiking.
The master bedroom features a super king-size bed and en-suite shower room with toilet.
The second bedroom is a twin room and has a cosy feel with a view of the landscape outside. There’s some outdoor furniture in the pretty enclosed garden, which is home to a pond.
Heron cottage is a great base for outdoor enthusiasts or for those looking to reconnect with the outdoors. Stroll around and explore the surrounding landscape.
There are plenty of interesting things to do in the area with the National Trust’s, Powys castle, Wroxeter Roman City and the museums at Ironbridge nearby.
Shrewsbury is full of life and things to be discovered by foot or by boat. The café culture, weekly farmer’s market, the castle, and lots of attractive independent shops are just under a 30-minute drive.
Further afield takes you to the medieval market town of Ludlow, famous for its castle as well as many food and drink festivals throughout the year to enjoy.
Everything you need for a memorable stay. Please note there are two gates and a single track on your approach to the property, which is about 150 metres long.
Dog owners please note that the fields surrounding the property are not owned by the owner of this property and are always occupied by sheep so dogs cannot be exercised off the lead in them.
This property can be booked together with Curlew Cottage UK40746) to accommodate up to 7 guests.£67From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Shrewsbury, EnglandTucked away in the beautiful village of Pontesford, Elsie’s Cottage is a great holiday home for those hoping to explore the Shropshire Hills. With outstanding views of the surrounding countryside from every window, and attractive features such as original beams, this idyllic cottage has been lovingly kept by the family for generations. It is perfectly suited to one or two couples, or a family of up to five. Pontesford is located on the A488 outside the large village of Pontesbury, south west of Shrewsbury. Being within the Shropshire hills you will be well placed to enjoy long walks or cycle rides in the beautiful and ever-changing countryside. The ground floor comprises a cosy living room with brick chimney breast and original features. The kitchen is well equipped with all modern appliances for your stay. There is a ground floor double bedroom with adjoining family bathroom. Upstairs is a sitting room with double sofa bed and second bedroom with double bed. two adjoining bedrooms, offering flexible sleeping options. A double bedroom, and a snug with sofa bed for an extra guest. There is ample parking for two cars, complimented by a large garden which is a great place to let your dog run free whilst you enjoy the stunning views.
From Elsie’s Cottage is the Earl’s and Pontesford Hill. Very popular with walkers throughout the year. Footpaths lead around the hill, through grazing pasture, or head up through the woodlands. Two routes are waymarked around the hill; the green signs for the easier route and the purple for the more demanding route that leads to the summit. Just down the road is the larger village of Pontesbury, where you will find a supermarket, chemist, Post Office, butchers and plenty of smaller interesting shops, plus three good pubs to enjoy a meal out one evening. Alternatively spend the day in the bustling and historical town of Shrewsbury, birthplace of Charles Darwin. Famed for its intriguing ‘Shuts and Passages’ and overlooked by Shrewsbury Castle, home to the Shropshire Regimental Museum, the town nestles in the crook of the River Severn. The Quarry parkland follows the length of the river and features ‘The Dingle’; an outstanding formal garden and water feature with lots of seating for relaxing and taking in the view. With museums, the Theatre Severn and numerous independent shops and places to eat, the town has plenty to offer all ages. Within a short distance you can also find the towns of Much Wenlock and Ludlow and various sites of historic interest. A beautiful rural location, perfect for an all-year round break at Elsie’s Cottage.£81From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Knighton, EnglandThe charming 300 year old Farmhouse is set within an enclosed garden on a working farm and is set close to the popular town of Knighton, which occupies a unique position, as part of the town is in Wales, and part in England – a truly unique character border town, within the town there is a wide range of independent bars, shops and restaurants to enjoy as well as takeaways should you wish to enjoy at the property. Steeped in history with sloping, winding streets and 17th century half-timbered houses, this is a great location with views of Offa’s Dyke and close to Glyndwr Way or exploring the beautiful Teme Valley.
Throughout the year, there are some lively faires celebrated, and all year round, you will find an array of antique and gift shops, tea rooms, old inns, good food and friendly locals. Local attractions include Offa’s Dyke Heritage Centre, Powys Observatory with Planetarium Show, golf, clay pigeon shooting and coarse fishing.
Gardens surround the property and there is a private seating area to the front taking in the lovely views over the owner’s own farmland where there are ponies and sheep grazing. There are walks directly from the door over the public footpaths that go through the yard and guests can walk for miles if they choose to.
Due to its special location, the tourist attractions of Shropshire and mid Wales are all within easy driving distances, so you can visit the likes of Clun with its castle, Ludlow, Church Stretton and Longmynd. Ironbridge Gorge, Shrewsbury and Bridgnorth make great day trips, and over the border into Wales, you can enjoy Welshpool with its steam engine, canal and Powys Castle. As stated, this property is set on the farm and the property is easily accessible with private parking outside the main house. Kennels and stable available on request.£63From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Oswestry, EnglandThis delightful property is set on a no through lane overlooking the Shropshire Union Canal and enjoys the peace and tranquillity that Shropshire has to offer. It offers three bedrooms for six guests. There is a lovely seating area to the front where guests can sit and watch the passing canal boats.
There is much to see and do nearby including the beautiful Ceiriog Valley, Offa’s Dyke, Froncysylte World Heritage Site, Chirk Castle and the picturesque town of Llangollen where an abundance of outdoor activities are available.
The scenic town of Ellesmere is 9 miles away with picturesque walks around the lovely lakes. The nearby town of Oswestry is home to an Iron Age Hill Fort, a must see for history lovers. Golf is available at Henlle Park Golf Club, and spa facilities are available at the Lion Quays Hotel, both 1 mile away.
A good selection of pubs and restaurants are within a 2 mile radius, ideal for a relaxing evening out. Shrewsbury offers a large selection of points of interest and landmarks to visit including Shrewsbury Abbey and Attingham Park. You are also just a 40-minute drive from the Roman town of Chester.£87From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Oswestry, EnglandThis stunning 18th-century, semi-detached house has been lovingly converted into a self-catering holiday cottage which sleeps up to twelve people between six bedrooms. Vyrnwy Bank is the perfect destination for larger groups of friends or family looking to take in the dramatic beauty and historic charm in this part of Powys, Wales. In total there are six bedrooms spread across the two floors, some with en-suite facilities and some sharing bathrooms. Vyrnwy Bank is well-furnished throughout to provide ample accommodation. The house has so much to offer and boasts some traditional features such as exposed beams and a wonderful fireplace including a wood burning stove.
The village centre of Llanymynech is a short walk away and offers a couple of local shops, pubs and the market town of Oswestry is just a short drive away where there are a variety of shops and restaurants to try. Being so close to the Llanymynech Rocks Nature Reserve and some five miles to the Berwyn Mountain Range, there is an abundance of scenic walks and cycle trails to explore. Vyrnwy Bank is set on the Powys/Shropshire border and is a brilliant base for discovering this beautiful area. Perfectly situated for National Trust and English Heritage properties, World Heritage sites, as well as a wealth of designated footpaths and bridleways. Whatever you get up to during your holiday, this house is the ideal retreat to return to. Pub and restaurant ½ mile.£171From price per night based on 7 night stay