The Royal at Dockray, Cumbria

Nestled in the serene landscape of Cumbria, the historic Royal Hotel is an idyllic, dog-friendly holiday destination for you and your four-legged friend. Surrounded by fells, woods, and lakes, it offers amazing walks right from the door. Perfectly positioned to explore the Lake District National Park, this charming hotel is just a stone's throw from the quaint market towns of Keswick and Ambleside, with Gowbarrow Fell, Aira Force Waterfall, and Lake Ullswater close by. Guests can enjoy scenic walking routes, traditional dog-friendly shops, and local attractions, making it an ideal base for a canine adventure.

The Royal Hotel, Cumbria, has a rich heritage dating back over 500 years. Legend has it that Mary Queen of Scots stopped at the Cross Keys, as the Royal Hotel was known then, in 1568. As well as its historic past, the hotel is imbued with plenty of Lakeside charm: low ceilings, antique furnishings, wonky floors, beautiful views, and the best beer garden for miles around.

The bedrooms offer comfort and character, and the dog-friendly restaurant serves a selection of locally sourced dishes, each crafted to reflect the culinary spirit of Cumbria. You can enjoy a hearty Cumbrian breakfast, with a sausage for your dog, to kickstart a day of hiking, or a delicious dinner to wind down. Next to the restaurant is the cosy bar—the perfect spot to relax with a pint of local ale after a busy day of fell climbing or walks around the lakes.

The hotel offers a very warm welcome to four-legged friends, treating them as important members of the family, with dog treats served at the bar and sausages for dogs at breakfast. The hotel's spacious grounds are great for a quick doggie exercise when they need to let off steam, and there are walking trails right from the door. The staff are also always on hand to recommend pet-friendly cafes, parks, and walks nearby.