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.
Ballater, ScotlandThese two, detached holiday properties are located in the heart of Ballater, within 100 yards of Ballater village green, restaurants, cafés, take-aways and shops, many of which feature the Royal ’By Appointment’ coats of arms. The Coyles (ref UK31466) is an impressive granite Victorian merchant’s house, with all the lovely high ceilings and details you would expect from a period property. Ideal for larger gatherings, whether enjoying a special birthday or a relaxing get together with friends, with plenty of living space and very good amenities throughout to ensure a memorable and convivial holiday. On two levels, it offers a high standard of comfort throughout and is a great choice at any time of the year. Built in 1888 using local granite, pitch pine and slate, it’s a true Victorian gem. It has its own enclosed garden and grounds, and enjoys lovely rural views to the south to Craig Coilleach. Quiet and secluded, the gardens are largely laid to lawn with a variety of mature trees and several flower borders with a variety of shrubs. There is a handy shed for bike and kayak storage, and for outdoor entertainment there is a paved patio area, with outdoor seating and barbecue. The Coyles Cottage (ref SBH) has its own garden and grounds and is well equipped throughout with a lovely sunny conservatory, and benefits from triple glazing and central heating throughout, affording year-round comfort.
Ballater sits in the heart of majestic Royal Deeside and is also located in the Cairngorms National Park, making it one of Scotland’s most scenic visitor spots. It boasts cosy cafés, quality restaurants, excellent shopping and great links to outdoor adventure, including hiking, climbing and skiing. Golf can be played in the beautiful surroundings of the 18-hole Ballater golf club and fishing is available, with the appropriate permits, on the River Dee. Ballater has many links to the Royal family and historic castles nearby include Balmoral, Crathes and Craigievar. The Grampians offer wonderful hill walking and wildlife, and the surrounding area of Deeside is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Leisurely walks abound on the banks of the River Dee or within a few miles there’s great walking at Burn O Vat, Lochnagar and Loch Muick.
Deeside is a haven for the outdoor enthusiast with a wide and varied range of sporting activities. The area has excellent hill walking and on/off road cycling facilities and the ski centres at Aviemore, Glenshee and the Lecht are within a short travelling distance. For the sportsman, the River Dee is one of the most popular salmon rivers in Scotland and the River Don is famous for its trout. Deer stalking and grouse shooting can be arranged in the locality. Relatively central for interesting and varied days out, the city of Aberdeen can be reached in around an hour, with Dundee, Perth and Inverness all accessible within 2 hours’ drive through spectacular scenery. Shop, pub and restaurant 100 yards.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 13 guests.£118From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & book
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Banchory, ScotlandA spacious, modern, and well-equipped holiday home that exudes warmth and comfort. With five bedrooms, it can comfortably accommodate eight guests, making it perfect for families or a group of friends. The open-plan living area is flooded with natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
The lower West Wing hosts the large, fully-equipped kitchen, two main living rooms, a dining room (seats six with two extra dining chairs in the kitchen) and a single toilet on the ground floor. You will find the master bedroom in the upper West Wing with an en-suite.
The East Wing has two bedrooms on the ground floor (a double bedroom and a single room). Both have easy access to the large bathroom on the ground floor. In the upper East Wing, there are two further double bedrooms, sharing a bathroom. Please do note that there are three small steps between the West and East Wing, and both areas are connected inside the house.
A short drive away, visit the iconic Balmoral Castle, a favourite retreat of the British royal family. Explore the magnificent gardens and enjoy a tour of the castle’s interior. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Cairngorms, ideal for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. In winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the nearby resorts. Aberdeenshire is known for its whisky production. Visit local distilleries like Glenfiddich and Glenlivet for a taste of Scotland’s finest spirits. Savour delicious Scottish cuisine in the nearby restaurants and pubs, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, hearty stews, and traditional haggis.
Discover the rich history of Aberdeenshire by visiting historic sites like Dunnottar Castle and Crathes Castle. A peaceful retreat with easy access to a wealth of attractions and activities. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply wish to relax and unwind in the picturesque Scottish countryside. Beach 6 miles.£155From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Arden, Scotland"Stunning cottages in the heart of Loch Lomond National Park..."
Situated in the heart of Loch Lomond National Park, these stunning holiday properties have been lovingly restored and furnished to provide wonderful retreats.
Auchendennan Farm Cottage (SLLX) is a single-storey holiday cottage; within the house there is a large family sauna which can be used as an ideal way to unwind. Outside on the sun decking, there is a sunken hot tub which is large enough for all the family and powerful enough to give tired muscles a proper massage. Rose Cottage (SRRG) is a single-storey conversion adjoining the owner’s farmhouse. Combining modern and traditional furnishings, the property boasts a superb hot tub and external sun decked area for relaxing and unwinding. Burnbeag (SVVE) is a stunning, detached cottage to the rear of the steadings and has a stream running through its private enclosed garden, which has a decked area and hot tub. Courtyard Studio (SVVD) is a single-storey barn conversion set in the courtyard, behind the main house. Chestnut Cottage (SXXO), Willow Cottage (SXXP), Primrose Cottage (SXXQ) and Ivy Cottage (SXXR) are all pretty single-storey, semi-detached holiday cottages, with open-plan living areas and a cosy, wood-burning stove.
In summer, Loch Lomond’s ancient oak woods ring with birdsong. Look out for redstarts, pied flycatchers and wood warblers. Ospreys are summer visitors to the loch and nearby Lake of Menteith. In the high country of Breadalbane, golden eagles may be seen soaring over mountain slopes richly carpeted in alpine plants. Watch out for porpoises and seals and glimpse Loch Lomond’s herd of fallow deer as they bound through the trees. Loch Lomond and Loch Earn are some of Scotland’s prime venues for sailing and water-skiing, while the rivers Balvaig and Teith are popular with canoeists. The Teith is also a great salmon river and one of many places popular with anglers. For golfing enthusiasts, the famous courses of Loch Lomond are just a short distance from the property, with an abundance of courses for all standards within easy reach.
Walking is a popular pursuit, from gentle low-level strolls to strenuous mountain climbs. Ben Lomond, Ben Lui, Ben Ime and Ben Vorlich are among the 21 Munros (mountains over 3000 feet). The West Highland Way stretches from the edge of Glasgow to Fort William, hugging the banks of Loch Lomond and passing through the spectacular mountain scenery of Strathfillan. There are great opportunities for cycling on and off road on National Cycle Network Route 7, which passes through the National Park from Balloch to Killin. Cameron House, the 5 star golf/spa resort is just minutes from the property where one can enjoy fine dining, day spa packages and championship golf. Lomond Shores, again a short distance from the property, offers designer shopping, loch cruises and an aquarium. The cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh are easily accessible by car boasting award winning restaurants, theatres, galleries and concert venues, designer shopping as well as many tourist attractions including the breath-taking Edinburgh Castle. Shops 2 miles, pub ¼ mile.
Auchendennan Farm Cottage (SLLX) can be booked together with Rose Cottage (SRRG) to accommodate up to 10 guests.£267From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Oban, Scotland"Stunning locations in breathtaking scenery..."
In a magnificent setting by the sea, Ardmaddy Castle sits in its own bay with unrivalled views over Seil Sound and the world famous local Slate Islands, designated one of Scotland’s National Scenic Areas. Graded ‘4 Star’ by the Scottish Tourist Board, these four cottages (SBZ, SRW and SRY) and Caddleton Farmhouse (UNP) are set in secluded, peaceful locations around the estate and offer an ideal base for exploring this stunning part of the West Coast of Scotland.
The Stables (SBZ) is and immaculate and sensitive conversion of the former stables overlooks Ardmaddy Bay and is furnished to Visit Scotland ‘4 Star’ standard. Modern and comfortable, it still retains much of its traditional character and warmth, and has patio doors overlooking the sea. All four bedrooms are tastefully furnished and have fitted cupboards.
The castle’s spectacular gardens are open all year round through Scotland’s Gardens Scheme and are a delight for gardening enthusiasts. The area is renowned for its abundant wildlife with porpoise, dolphins, basking sharks, otters, deer, eagles and wealth of seabirds often seen. Sailing, rowing and motor boats are all available for guests to hire, and there is free fishing on Ardmaddy’s stocked hill loch. Guests can also use the castle’s tennis court.
The bustling harbour town of Oban known as the ‘Gateway to the Islands’ is only 12 miles away and has wonderful seafood restaurants, shops and bars. From Oban there are boat trips to the Inner Hebridean Isles, including Mull, Iona, Staffa, Colonsay and Tiree. For the outdoor enthusiast, local activities include horse riding, coasteering, canyoning, canoeing, sailing, diving and golf. Fort William and Glencoe are a short drive away offering very popular climbing and skiing. Explore beautiful gardens and ruined castles in an area rich in historical legacy or take a leisurely walk or cycle along one of the many forest tracks. Visit Bonawe Iron Works, Cruachan Hollow Mountain, the Sealife Centre and Inveraray Jail. Or relax and enjoy the unspoilt natural beauty surrounding the cottages at Ardmaddy. Shops 12 miles, pub/restaurant 2½ miles.£125From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Gairlochy, ScotlandWelcome to Pinewood, your idyllic holiday retreat nestled in the heart of the enchanting Highlands, where tranquillity meets adventure. Located in the picturesque Gairlochy Bay, this haven offers an immersive escape into the stunning natural beauty of Scotland.
Gairlochy Bay, with its rugged charm and breathtaking landscapes, invites you to embark on a journey of exploration and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the rich history and folklore of the Highlands as you traverse the nearby historic trails and ancient woodlands. Unwind with leisurely strolls along the shores of Loch Lochy, where the crisp Highland air mixes with the soothing sound of lapping waves. Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the diverse wildlife that inhabits Gairlochy Bay. From red deer roaming the hillsides to elusive otters gliding through the water, every moment promises a glimpse of the untamed beauty of the Highlands. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of avian residents, including majestic eagles soaring overhead.
For those seeking a touch of adventure, Gairlochy Bay offers an array of outdoor activities. Set sail on the loch’s pristine waters for a day of fishing or simply enjoy a leisurely cruise, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Hikers and cyclists can explore the network of trails that wind through the heather-covered hills, revealing hidden gems and breathtaking vistas. As the day ends, immerse yourself in the warmth of Highland hospitality by visiting the local pubs and eateries. Indulge in traditional Scottish cuisine and savour the flavours of the region, all while enjoying the company of friendly locals.
Pinewood in Gairlochy Bay invites you to create lasting memories amid the natural wonders of the Highlands. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this holiday retreat promises an unforgettable experience in one of Scotland’s most captivating destinations.£84From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Kincraig, ScotlandUnusual single-storey detached cottage with superb views over Loch Insh and the Cairngorms. Open fire, hot tub, spacious accommodation, superb rural location. Aviemore 6 miles.£157From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Southerness, ScotlandThis delightful, detached, single-storey beach house stands in a magnificent position with direct access onto 2 miles of sandy beaches and rock pools, and sits right next to the 13th green of the local golf course, making it an ideal holiday location. The uninterrupted views of the sea and shore line with the Lakeland Fells to the south and Criffel and the Galloway hills to the east are breathtaking. This seaside holiday home provides comfortable and well equipped ’beach house’ style accommodation with level access to the oceanside patio from the living room, the en-suite bedroom, the adjacent bedroom and the conservatory. The light and spacious, open plan living space has three large picture windows spanning three of the walls taking advantage of the spectacular panoramic views and making this a wonderful year round retreat. The shower room is large and has a walk-in shower, and is wheelchair accessible. The small village of Southerness with its quaint lighthouse stands on the Solway Firth and is home to an outstanding championship golf course which borders the property and welcomes visitors. For bird watchers the RSPB nature reserve is just along the coast at Mersehead. Golf, cycling, walking and exploring rock pools is direct from the doorstep, so overall this is an ideal holiday location for beachcombers and outdoor enthusiasts (there is room for bike and golf club storage the property). Other attractions nearby include, Sweetheart Abbey, Drumlanrig Castle and gardens and Mabie Farm Park and Forest, which has wonderful cycle routes. This area of Dumfries and Galloway is steeped in Border history and is rich in historical attractions including many castles, Robbie Burns connections and interesting towns and villages which host a lively calendar of festivals and events. Shop 500 yards, pub 400 yards.£169From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
- Newton Stewart, ScotlandSituated only yards from the shoreline, this spacious, detached cottage has fantastic views over the sea to the Mull of Galloway and the Isle of Man. West Barr Cottage has a private garden and direct access to the beach. Known as the Machars of Galloway the area boasts a stunning coastline with amazing cliff top walks. These include Burrow Head, famed for being the location of the closing scene in the cult movie ‘The Wicker Man’, to the Isle of Whithorn, a walk well worth the effort. There are beaches galore to explore, everything from sandy to rugged rocky beaches. The Mull of Galloway is home to the RSPB Nature Reserve and is part of a much larger Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation for its seabirds, plants and coastal habitats. Here you can see many species of birdlife, the cliffs being home to guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes, while ravens and peregrine falcons are regularly seen around the cliffs. Out to sea there are dolphins, porpoise and minke whale to spot and tours can also be taken from the lighthouse. There are many historical areas of interest to visit and the Whithorn Visitor Centre is a mine of information. The area is a walkers and cyclists paradise with the Southern Upland Way passing close by and offering everything from gentle walks to challenging hikes. The town of Stranraer is 20 miles and offers shops, restaurants and pubs and the town of Newton Stewart is also 20 miles away in the opposite direction. There are many coastal villages to explore, and sea fishing, golf and horse riding are all available locally. Day trips to Ireland can be taken from Cairnryan. Beach 30 yards. Shop and restaurant 2 miles, pub 5 miles.
West Barr Cottage can be booked together with West Barr Farmhouse (UK5766) to accommodate up to 12 guests.£66From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Stranraer, ScotlandEnjoying a wonderful setting only a few yards from the harbour in the picturesque centre of Portpatrick, this spacious semi-detached house with sea views offers an ideal base from which to explore the surrounding area. From the challenging uplands of the Galloway Hills to gentle seaside trails, rolling moors and dramatic cliff-top walks, the Southern Upland Way passing close by presents the ideal focus from which to enjoy the many and varied shorter walks within the region. The dramatic scenery is home to a rich company of flora and fauna, with many unusual species including pine martens, golden eagle, ospreys, red deer, red squirrels and the natterjack toad.
The area has many renowned gardens to visit including the Botanic Gardens in Port Logan. Wigtown, Scotland’s official book town, is also home to a charming gallery, excellent cafés and is located only a few miles from Bladnoch Distillery where visitors can sample the local malt whisky. For fishermen the area offers a wide variety of opportunities including sea fishing from Portpatrick and both trout and salmon fishing close by. Other country pursuits are available including shooting and horse riding. Golfers will feel equally at home in this area with Stranraer, Portpatick and Lagganmore golf courses within a 20-minute drive. Turnberry, with its world famous course, is only 45 minutes away and also offers a spa, off road driving, quad biking activities and restaurant facilities.
For the active, there are numerous cycle routes set out in stunning forestry commission surroundings and cycle hire is available at these centres. Sailing is available via the local marina, and for those happy to travel slightly further afield, there is the Galloway Sailing Centre where visitors can also try windsurfing, canoeing and power boating. From Stranraer, 15 miles away. there is the ferry service to Ireland for a day trip. Beach 200 yards. Shop, pub and restaurant 250 yards.£109From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Ballindalloch, ScotlandThe Old Boathouse is an exquisite holiday home tucked away in beautiful Highland countryside in the Cairngorms National Park. Situated a stone’s throw away from the River Spey, within the Tulchan Estate east of Grantown-on-Spey, The Old Boathouse is perfect for those wanting outdoor pursuits nearby and generally reconnect with the great outdoors. Renovated to a very high standard, The Old Boathouse is a luxury lodge within its own large enclosed plot. Surrounded by Highland nature, there are many locals that visit the garden throughout the day and night including red squirrels, pine martens, red deer and a wide array of bird life. This luxury property welcomes dogs, and the garden, as well as the local area for walks, is an absolute paradise for them to run around in. The garden also boasts a charcoal barbecue and patio area with garden furniture, but the piste de resistance is the welcoming hot tub.
Entering the property through the front door you’re lured to the right where there is large living/dining room with a wood burner taking centre stage. This living space is set-up round the fire, and is the perfect room to relax in after a meal and a long day either fishing on the river or exploring the national park. There are stairs up to the master suite from the living/dining area, but first there is another room beyond on the ground floor; a large conservatory with a Smart TV.
Up the stairs, the master suite has a super kingsize bed that can also be a zip and link if needed. The former dressing room that links the bedroom to the en-suite shower room has been renovated into a further sleeping area with twin beds, making this a perfect family room for four. Back downstairs to the front door and directly opposite is the kitchen with extra breakfast table. Like the entire house, it is decorated to a very high standard. There are two further bedrooms downstairs, both with en-suite shower rooms and Smart TVs. An exciting feature of the house is the games room which is accessed from the garden. It has a table tennis table and a galleried living area with yet another large Smart TV.
With some of the best fly fishing in Scotland available only a short walk away, permits available through the Tulchan Estate, and other excellent beats only a few miles away, including at Ballindalloch, The Old Boathouse is an excellent choice for fishing parties. Because of its position in the Cairngorms National Park, it also caters for families and groups of friends that want to get outdoors exploring on foot, by bike and also on skis. There’s also the Speyside distilleries to visit only a few miles down river, and many interesting towns and villages to roam around. Stay at The Old Boathouse and you’ll end up visiting year after year. It’s a truly special house in a fantastic part of the world. Shop, pub and restaurant 7 miles.£209From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
