Dog-friendly Scotland
Explore Scotland's dog-friendly destinations for an ideal holiday with your four-legged friend. Whether it's a quaint hotel, cosy cottage, B&B, or a charming country house, find the perfect spot for a short break with your pooch. Discover stunning Scottish landscapes and create lasting memories on your next adventure.
Banff, ScotlandConstructed in 1864, this picturesque, renovated church building that has been lovingly restored making it a luxurious place for you and your family or friends to stay. Its exterior form has happily been retained, bearing clear witness to its original function, whilst inside a stained glass window is the central feature to the first floor living room. Other features of note include high ceilings, large windows, plenty of spacious accommodation and large mature gardens. The majority of the living space is to the ground floor. The open plan kitchen and dining area with sliding door opening to the rear garden was formerly the church hall. Five bedrooms have been stylishly designed, along with a contemporary bathroom and two additional shower rooms, whilst a cinema and games room will keep you busy on a rainy day. The extensive gardens of an acre comprise of a woodland driveway to the front. The enclosed rear garden has mature trees and shrubs, including a monkey puzzle tree, lawns and three patio seating areas. The summerhouse and patios are the ideal place for enjoying a morning coffee or evening drink while taking in the surrounding views and starlit sky.
The property is nestled in a very beautiful part of Scotland and offers many activities in short striking distance, including walking, cycling, golfing, fishing and the seaside. The property is just 3 miles from Mintlaw, home to Aden Country Park covering 230 acres. Recognised as one of Scotland’s top green spaces, the park is a popular spot for walkers, cyclists and families thanks to its picturesque surroundings and busy events calendar. Mintlaw hosts a wide variety of amenities including pub, takeaways and local supermarket.
8 miles to the east is Cruden Bay, which has a sweeping expanse of pink sands and dunes approximately 1½ miles in length. This sandy beach is popular with day trippers, water sports enthusiasts and for sea fishing. Here you can also visit the remains of Slains Castle, once a place where celebrities were entertained on numerous occasions in the 19th Century. One of the most notable guests was Bram Stoker and it is believed the castle is the inspiration for the setting of ’Count Dracula’. 14 miles south of Torreagles is Newburgh beach, home to a colony of around 400 seals, adjacent to which are Forvie Nature Reserve and Foveran Links, a site of special scientific interest.
Golfers will appreciate numerous challenging courses less than a half hour’s drive from the property, including three of Scotland’s top twenty championship courses, Cruden Bay Golf Club, Trump International Golf Links and Royal Aberdeen Golf Club. Whatever you decide to do during your stay, this is an ideal base to explore this lovely part of Scotland. Beach 8 miles.£182From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & book
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Taynuilt, Scotland
4.75Completely renovated in 2021, this beautiful detached, single-storey holiday cottage enjoys an idyllic location, with Loch Etive to the front and the River Awe directly behind. Extremely well furnished and equipped the property has direct access onto the beach. It boasts stunning views across the sea loch to the mountains beyond from some of the rooms, and lovely views over the garden from the others. There is a well-equipped kitchen and a dining area seating eight guests. The house enjoys significant privacy with its only neighbours being seals, otters and yachts. Point Park is one of the very few properties to truly have a sea frontage, located just 5 metres from Loch Etive’s shore with direct beach access. In all rooms the bed can be made into double beds in all bedrooms if required.
The lovely little town of Taynuilt has a friendly community and offers a village grocery store, a post office, butchers, tea room, hairdressers, doctor’s surgery and a restaurant serving good food. There is also a train station, the line through Taynuilt runs from Glasgow to Oban so you can have a day in the city or head to the islands. Taynuilt’s golf course is just a few minutes’ walk from the cottage and offers 9 holes.
The bustling Victorian town of Oban known as the ‘Gateway to the Highlands’ is just 20 minutes away by carand offers shops, bars, seafood restaurants, a cinema and leisure centre. Whisky lovers can visit the Oban Distillery to learn how it’s all made. Regular boat trips leave the busy harbour bound for the Inner Hebridean Islands, including Mull, Iona and the Treshnish Isles with their comical puffins.
Enjoy leisurely forest walks, horseriding, fishing, sailing, diving and golf, or for the more adventurous, Glen Nevis, one of the Highland’s most famous glens and the location of scenes from Harry Potter and Braveheart, is only a short drive and offers stunning scenery and bracing walks. Explore famous castles, historical sites and mature gardens. Visit Bonawe Iron Works, Cruachan Hollow Mountain or the Inveraray Jail. The abundant wildlife includes porpoises, dolphins, basking sharks, otters, deer and a wealth of seabirds. Glencoe and Fort William are easily accessible by car and offer popular climbing, skiing and mountain biking. All in all this is an ideal base for enjoying the pleasures of the great outdoors or just savouring the spectacular scenery of the Western Highlands. Shop and pub 1 mile.£154From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Oban, Scotland 5.00Perched on the edge of the crystal clear waters of Loch Etive, this luxury upper conversion enjoys breathtaking panoramic views towards the Falls of Lora, Mull and Morven. With the bustling fishing port of Oban close by, this property provides an ideal base from which to explore this beautiful part of the Northern Highlands and islands.
From the seaside town of Oban visit the Isle of Mull, just a short ferry trip away. Mull’s capital, Tobermory, is instantly recognisable by its famous brightly painted buildings. The island has a fascinating history, once being home to the chief of Clan MacLean, and the site of the clan’s ancient Duart Castle, which has spectacular views from its battlements.
Further south along the coast are the unspoilt glens and bays of Mid Argyll and Kintyre, and the islands of Islay and Jura which are reachable by ferry. Visit the whitewashed houses of Inveraray and the turreted Inveraray Castle, once home to the Duke of Argyll. Campbeltown in Kintyre has some lovely beaches nearby.
The captivating Isle of Bute lies at the heart of the Firth of Clyde. It is a place of tranquil relaxation with sheltered coves and sandy bays, ideal for leisurely hiking and easy-going cycling. Take in the grandeur of Rothesay Castle or Mount Stuart House and Gardens, where the Marquess of Bute once lived. You can also take a ferry to visit the beautiful islands of Iona, Staffa and the Treshnish Isles. The area is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, mountain bikers, mountain climbers and walkers with all the nearby glens, mountain ranges and coastal paths to explore. For the less energetic, sit back, relax and watch the ever changing scenery from the comfort of this lovely property. Beach 7¾ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.£144From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Oban, Scotland 5.00Right on the water’s edge with an enclosed sun-deck, 4 Dolphins offers a luxurious water’s edge holiday experience with seals, otters and seabirds, so close you can almost touch them! The experience of being so close to the sea is something quite exceptional and you will never tire of the ever-changing views and sounds whilst you sit looking out, either from the sun-deck or the comfort of the glass fronted living room. 4 Dolphins is situated on the coastal outskirts of Connel, 6 miles north of Oban on the shores of Loch Etive, and is the ground level luxury apartment created by the owners who live in the house next door.
With exceptional attention to detail and with the comfort of guests paramount, all rooms are luxuriously decorated with comfort and convenience in mind. Within walking distance of 4 Dolphins are three restaurants and three bars, a convenience store, and a railway station. You are feet away from the beautiful Loch Etive and just 5 minutes from the amazing natural attraction of the Falls of Lora, a tidal race underneath the Connel Bridge. Nearby attractions within a 5-minute drive are Dunstaffnage Castle and the Ocean Explorer Centre in the village of Dunbeg which also has a very popular Garden Centre with a café.
Across the Connel Bridge, a 10-minute drive takes you to the village of Benderloch, with its famous Pink Shop, grocery store, cafés, Tralee Beach, Ben Lora woodland walks and easy access onto national Cycle Route 78 which stretches all the way from Oban to Fort William. Oban, just 10 minutes drive, is a bustling west coast harbour town, and has lots going on for the visitor at any time of the year. Known as the ’Gateway to the Isles’, with ferries leaving daily to many islands, such as Mull, Iona, Staffa and Lismore. In keeping with its reputation as the Seafood Capital of Scotland, there are some excellent restaurants, cafés and pubs.
The area is a paradise for golfers, water sports enthusiasts, mountain bikers, mountain climbers and walkers with all the nearby glens, mountain ranges and coastal paths to explore. Inveraray, the ancient capital of Argyll, with its Castle and Jail, is a fun day out for the family. For any guests with young children, there is pony trekking available in the area. A trip to the Isle of Seil, over the Bridge over the Atlantic and a fast fun boat trip viewing whirlpools and wildlife, is another day out for family fun! Further afield, but within an hour’s drive, visitors can enjoy the scenery of Glencoe, take a trip to Fort William to see Ben Nevis or catch the Harry Potter train. Beach 8 miles, shop ½ mile, pub and restaurant ½ mile.£136From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Perth, Scotland 4.00If you are looking for a traditional Scottish cottage in Perthshire then look no further than The Lodge Cottage; a detached, 1700s stone-built cottage with the walls to prove it. This cottage, and its host working farm, is ready and waiting to welcome you and your family to this popular tourist area.
In 2018 the property benefitted from a series of refurbishments, which all add to the welcoming feel of the place. Being all on one level, The Lodge Cottage is both accessible and homely, with modern fixtures and fittings; you are sure to feel right at home.
Who doesn’t love a south-facing garden? Not only does The Lodge Cottage have one, but there is also a view that is sure to capture your imagination as you relax and unwind. All the best plans are made in the garden and this area has lots to offer…
Crieff, 7 miles, is where you will find several amenities, including a popular delicatessen, cafés and a supermarket, as well as an array of shops. But, perhaps more appealing, is ‘The Famous Grouse whisky distillery’, at Glenturret, where you can take a tour – you might even get a taste! Several events are also held throughout the year, including ‘The Crieff Highland Games’ and autumn’s ‘Drovers’ Tryst Walking Festival’.
You will be in your element in this area if you are a fan of the outdoors, as the mountains call walkers, hikers and cyclists alike. Loch Earn is ideal for water sports and there are plenty of fishing, golfing, cycling and horse riding opportunities in the surrounding area. Speaking of horse riding, based on the farm there is an equestrian eventing facility, amongst 80 acres of wooded parkland, where you could tackle some of the 100 cross country jumps. If you prefer to stay on your own two feet then walking with the wildlife is highly recommended.
If all that outdoor activity leaves you in search of some retail therapy or a good night out, then the city of Perth is just 7 miles away. Here you will be spoilt for choice with places to wine and dine. You could even go to the theatre! A great way to experience the city is to take a boat trip on the River Tay (seasonal). This area has lots to offer, not least its many historic castles, including Scone Palace, Drummond Castle and Garden, Stirling Castle, Doune Castle, Hopetoun House and for fans of the TV series ‘Outlander’, there are numerous locations used in the making of the series. Edinburgh, Stirling and Glasgow are all easily accessible for day trips. What are you waiting for?
Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.
Please note: By prior arrangement with the owner, guests can bring their horse or pony, or book tuition with the renowned equestrian eventing centre, which is within walking distance.£71From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Crieff, Scotland 1.00Fiona’s Cottage is an immaculately-presented, semi-detached holiday home, renovated to a good standard and thoughtfully furnished for guests’ comfort and ease. Situated in the market town of Crieff in the heart of beautiful Perthshire with its lochs and glens, hills and mountains and spectacular scenery. This is the perfect location to relax and enjoy this area with friends and family. There are an abundance of cafés, restaurants, bars and local shops all within walking distance, as well as a network of local pathways and cycle tracks. There are 20 golf courses within 20 miles including the famous Gleneagles. Other attractions include lochs and river fishing (Salmon, Grayling and Trout Fishing, at cost, licence required), horse riding, mountain climbing, whisky distilleries, castles, parks and gardens to visit. Whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday or a more energetic break, there is something for all ages to enjoy. Within easy driving are Perth, Stirling, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Loch Lomond. Shop, pub and restaurant 100 yards.£87From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Tarbert, Scotland 5.00This charming cottage is situated in the quiet village of Kilberry, surrounded by wonderful views across the sea towards Islay, Jura and the island of Gigha. It is a tranquil haven, a cosy place to unwind and to take a breath of clean sea air.
It is the perfect place to relax and escape the city but don’t worry, there is plenty to explore including Templar gravestones, a fabulous coastline where seals, otters and a variety of birds can be seen. In the hills, deer roam and golden eagles soar. There are many activities available nearby including whirlpool watching, sea fishing, bird watching, art trails, horse trekking, mountain biking and island hopping. There’s even a small art gallery next door!
The village of Tarbert can be reached within 30 minutes drive and offers a supermarket, shops, restaurants, coffee shops and a nine hole golf course. Ferries are close by for trips to Islay, Jura and Gigha to the west and to the east, Arran. Further South lies the beautiful sands of Westport Beach, great for surfers. In Campbeltown you will find several famous distilleries and the category A listed Glasgow school Art Nouveau style picture house. Kintyre is home to five golf courses, the most famous of which is the championship course at Macrihanish, with its infamous first hole. Further south is the beautiful Southend and the wild Mull of Kintyre.
From Tarbert, cross Loch Fyne to Portavadie with its swimming pool, spa and restaurant facilities and from there you can explore Tighnabruaich and the Cowal Peninsula, Argyll’s Secret Coast. To the north you will find the town of Lochgilphead, the historic and mystical Kilmartin Glen, Knapdale forest and the Scottish Beaver trail. Walk or cycle the beautiful Crinan Canal or take a trip to Coryvreckan, the third largest whirlpools on the planet. Oban, the gateway to the isles, is also worth a visit. Beach 1 mile. Shop and café (seasonal Easter to October) 1 mile. Pub 1 mile. Shop and restaurant 13 miles.£70From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Ayr, ScotlandThis all on one level cottage situated on a working farm has enclosed private gardens with its own private hot tub and external games room.
The magnificent Ayrshire coastline and countryside is a paradise for walkers, bikers and hikers, with numerous coastal trails and country tracks to explore. The Ayrshire Coastal Path runs along this coastline and is very popular with walkers. The area is steeped in history, with many ruined castles to explore, such as Dunure, Turnberry and Greenan.
A visit and tour of Culzean Castle, designed by Robert Adams and truly one of his masterpieces, is one not to be missed with its dramatic clifftop location, as is a trip to the 18th century Dumfries House, part of the Princes Foundation and home to an unrivalled collection of Chippendale furniture. The 2000-acre estate has been beautifully designed with stunning walks throughout the grounds.
The world-famous Royal Troon golf course is only a 5-minute drive. The pretty seaside towns of Ayr, Prestwick and Troon are only a short drive and there are very good rail links for a trip to the cosmopolitan city of Glasgow. The islands of Cumbrae and Arran are easily reached for a day out. Beach 3 miles. Pub 1½ miles and shop 2¾ miles.£112From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
St Andrews, ScotlandThe Roundel is set in a most fantastic rural location with uninterrupted views over the open rolling countryside of Fife. It is the perfect location for weekend celebrations or getaways for your whole family who can revel in the space, ambience and warmth of this remarkable holiday home. On the ground floor, the focal point of this semi-detached house is the living/dining room, which has three sets of patio doors leading to the garden. Its floor-to-ceiling windows take full advantage of the views. For younger members of the group, there is a special toy corner. Outside, there is ample space for everyone to enjoy, and the patio with garden furniture is great for al fresco dining.
There is much to do in the area, and guests are in an ideal location for exploring coastal Fife. In a small quiet hamlet, The Roundel provides a rural location with miles of sandy beach and dunes less than 6 miles away, and the bustling city of Dundee and historic St Andrews are both only 15 minutes away (6 miles) with activities for all ages and tastes. Just 10 minutes away lies the picturesque market town of Cupar, which is ideal for picking up supplies. For families there is the Scottish Deer Centre, St Andrews Aquarium, sandy beaches at Tentsmuir Forest and beach, as well as riding stables.
The historic city of St Andrews can be reached within a 15-minute drive, making The Roundel ideal for guests visiting friends and family who are based at St Andrews University or attending one of the graduation ceremonies. As a popular tourist location, St Andrews offers a great selection of quality cafés, bars and restaurants, excellent shopping as well as a sandy beach, harbour and many historic buildings. Renowned worldwide as the ‘Home of Golf’ and regularly playing host to the Open Championship, this is a golfers’ paradise with eight courses to suit all abilities, as well as the British Golf Museum.
Dundee has lots to offer for a day out, the Olympia Sports Centre has a swimming pool, great for keeping your childen entertained on wet days. A visit to RRS Discovery at the multi award-winning Discovery Point makes for a good day to see how Captain Scott and Ernest Shackleton made their epic journeys. Falkland Palace and its garden are well worth a visit - this is one of Scotland’s finest Renaissance palaces and is steeped in history. Fans of the TV series ‘Outlander’ will recognise the location which was used as 1940s Inverness, and there are many more locations in the area that were used in the series. Beach 6 miles. Shop and restaurant 2 miles, pub ½ mile.£117From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Corpach, ScotlandIn a superb location with wonderful views towards Loch Linnhe, the Caledonian Canal, Fort William and the surrounding mountains, this spacious house, one of a pair, adjoins the owners’ seldom used holiday apartment and offers an ideal base for discovering the west coast of Scotland. The holiday property is decorated with a Christmas theme during the festive season.
The area is renowned for its outdoor pursuits, breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. Known as the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’, activities include mountain biking, climbing, skiing, kayaking, walking, golf and fishing. Take a trip on the gondola up Aonach Mor or try the World Championship mountain bike course. For outdoor enthusiasts who like a challenge, why not take on Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain. On a clear day, the view is spectacular and you can see for miles. For steam train enthusiasts, catch the West Highland Steam Train to Mallaig, crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct which featured in the Harry Potter films, (or watch it from the garden as it puffs past the house daily during the summer months). Alternatively, visit some of the unspoilt beaches, historic castles, museums, distilleries and magnificent gardens.
Boat trips to the inner isles are easily accessible, including Mull with its main, colourful, harbourside town, Tobermoray, also known as Balamory in the children’s TV series, Staffa and the cathedral like Fingal’s Cave, and Iona with its pristine white sands and famous abbey. Torfern is also ideally placed for touring with the bustling harbour town of Oban, Aviemore for winter sports, Inverness, Skye or monster spotting at Loch Ness all easily reached. Shop and pub 200 yards.£106From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
