Dog-friendly holidays in the UK: A dog trainer’s honest guide
- Sarah at Barkshire Dog Training
- May 6
- 5 min read
Summary
There is something genuinely magical about a holiday where nobody gets left behind — and for those of us who share our lives with dogs, that means booking somewhere that works for every four-legged member of the family too. As a dog trainer based in Reading, Berkshire, I have had plenty of experience exploring the UK with my own dogs in tow, and I have learned a huge amount along the way. So whether you are planning your first dog-friendly break or you are a seasoned ‘packing-more-for-the-dog-than-yourself’ traveller (guilty as charged!), here is my honest guide to making it work.
Choosing the right dog-friendly accommodation
Not all dog-friendly accommodation is created equal — and this is something I feel very strongly about. Just because a listing says ‘dogs welcome’ does not mean it has actually been thought through with your dog in mind.
When I am looking for somewhere to stay, my checklist includes:
• A safe, secure outdoor space where the dogs can be let out easily, especially first thing in the morning. I want to be able to open a door, let them out, and know they are not going to disappear into a farmer’s field or onto a busy road.
• Somewhere that welcomes dogs as part of the family, not as an afterthought. You know the places — the ones that leave a little dog treat on arrival, or have a dog bowl and towel waiting. Those small touches tell you everything about how the hosts really feel about your four-legged guests.
• Enough space to spread out. A dog needs their bed, their bowl, their toys, and their blankets — more on packing in a moment!
• Dog-friendly walking nearby — whether that is open countryside, quiet lanes, or a good beach.
The restrictions around dogs on sofas are completely understandable from a landlord’s perspective, and I always respect the house rules. My solution? I travel with my own blankets. That way, my dogs can enjoy the same creature comforts they have at home, and the furniture stays clean. Win-win for everyone.
Packing for the dog vs packing for yourself!
Do you find you have packed more for your dogs than for yourself? I know I do!
For a week away, I can get away with one bag for myself — I can pick up food along the way, or even better, get it delivered after we arrive and keep things simple.
My dogs, on the other hand, require a full expedition’s worth of kit. Here is what comes with us every single time:
• Dog beds and blankets from home (the familiar smell helps them settle)
• Dog food — Poppy has specific dietary needs so this is non-negotiable for us
• Food and water bowls — we bring four: two for the property, two for walks
• Two leads per dog, each with a different purpose
• Harnesses and two long lines
• Poo bags, towels, and any medications
• Toys and treats
The boot of the car is essentially theirs. Is it worth it? Absolutely. Every time.
Travelling with dogs by car on holiday: What you need to know
Some of the best dog-friendly holiday destinations from our home in Reading, Berkshire are a good drive away — Devon, Cornwall, the Brecon Beacons, or the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline. These longer journeys take a little planning, but they are very manageable with the right approach.
I became a National Trust member partly because their properties make a wonderful midway stop — somewhere to have lunch, stretch your legs, and give the dogs a proper toilet break in beautiful surroundings. Building in these regular stops helps my dogs have a positive association with travelling, and I know they are very grateful for the breaks. So are my legs!
Keep the car well ventilated. On quieter roads, Davey used to nothing more than having his head out of the window, ears flapping in the wind — pure joy. And never, ever leave your dog in a hot car, even for a few minutes. This can be especially tricky when you are away, because rental properties often state that dogs cannot be left alone inside either.
The solution? Plan to have someone stay with them in the car, or take them out for a quick game of ‘find it’ while the other person nips into the shop. It turns a potentially stressful wait into something fun.
If your dog gets anxious in the car, speak to your vet or a trainer (hi!) before the trip — there is a lot we can do to make journeys calmer and more comfortable for everybody.
Dog behaviour on holiday: Walking, beaches, and busy places
One of the greatest joys of a dog-friendly UK holiday is the walking. From the rugged coastline of Cornwall to the open moorland of Devon, there is so much to explore. A word of advice though — popular spots like Cornwall can have much narrower pavements and busier footpaths than you might expect, especially in peak season.
Your dog needs to be comfortable walking nicely on a loose lead, coping calmly with passing people, cyclists, and other dogs. If that is something you are still working on, a little pre-holiday training goes a long way — and will make the whole trip far more enjoyable for both of you.
Beaches are brilliant — but do check the local rules before you go. Many popular beaches have seasonal dog restrictions, often running from May to September. That said, plenty of beaches are now much more inclusive, allowing dogs before 10am and after 6pm even during peak season.
Polzeath in Cornwall is one I know well and love — it genuinely welcomes dogs and their owners even in summer, and it is well worth planning your day around those windows. Always research ahead and have a backup plan just in case.
Dog behaviour on holiday: What to work on before you go
A dog-friendly holiday is only as relaxing as your dog’s behaviour allows. A dog that pulls on the lead, reacts to other dogs, or struggles in new environments can make a break feel far more stressful than staying home. If you know your dog finds new places tricky, invest in some training beforehand — it will genuinely transform your experiences together.
That said, exposure to new environments, smells, and experiences is also wonderful enrichment for your dog. They thrive on it. With the right preparation, a UK holiday with your dog can be one of the best things you do together.
With the right preparation, a UK holiday with your dog can be one of the best things you do together.
Trainer Tips for your holiday
Before your trip, practise settling on a mat or blanket at home — this gives your dog a familiar safe spot they can settle on wherever you are. [Link to your free settling handout here]
One of my favourite dog-friendly holiday lets? Sunnyside Cottage, Robin Hood’s Bay. A little further afield from Berkshire, but absolutely worth it. The owners have genuinely thought of everything — it is the kind of place where your dog feels as welcome as you do. Sunnyside Cottage link
If you are planning a UK holiday and want to make sure you and your dog are ready for it, I would love to help. Book a free call and let’s chat — there is a lot we can do together to make it the break you all deserve.
Comments