Dog-Friendly Cotswolds
Today, many of us want to take our dogs with us everywhere. We want to take them everywhere with us, even on holiday! The Cotswolds are having a moment, attracting 23 million visitors a year! But are they dog-friendly? What can you expect if you take a trip with your four-legged friend? This guide is here to help you plan the perfect trip for you and your dog!
Are the Cotswolds Dog-Friendly?
A big resounding YES! You will see dogs are everywhere in the Cotswolds, both as locals and tourists. Walking down any village high street, you will meet countless dogs, as well as see them at their owner’s feet at pub and cafe tables. Most places welcome them, and will go so far as placing water bowls outside. You can even find doggie ice cream and dog menus at some places.
Although dogs are welcome, there will be some places you still can’t take them. Knowing which attractions and places accept dogs before going will make your trip that much smoother.
Things to Do with a Dog
If you are visiting the Cotswolds with your dogs, there are several things you can do with them and bring them along.
Cotswold Wildlife Park
This is one of my absolute favourite places to visit in the Cotswolds! This wildlife park is the only one of the UK that allows dogs, which tells you how welcome they are. Set on 160 acres of countryside, this animal park has exotic animals, a petting zoo, reptile and insect houses, and birds. The extensive grounds and gardens are a joy to walk around, and there is a good-sized playground to occupy children.
Although dogs are welcome, there are some exhibits that they aren’t allowed in. The walk-through wallaby enclosure, although that seems like common sense!
Hidcote Manor Garden
Another of my favourites, this National Trust property opened to dogs a couple of years ago. Not all areas are dog-friendly, but it is very clearly signposted.
Hidcote was designed by Lawrence Johnston, and employs the idea of each garden being a ‘room’. This means each area has its own distinct style and personality. Some of my favourites are the Red Border, the Productive Garden, and the Rock Garden.
The cafe serves hot and cold lunches which you can eat inside or on the small terrace garden. They usually have gluten-free bread for the sandwiches, but you may need to ask. Alternatively, there are lots of picnic benches by the Kitchen Garden and greenhouses.
Batsford Arboretum
Adults 10.90, children (4-16 3.15
Batsford Arboretum is a must-visit for any nature-lovers. This park is home to around 1,300 different trees, shrubs, and bamboos. Here you can see trees from all over the world, but there is a particular emphasis on species from the Far East. Batsford Arboretum is also home to the National Collection of Japanese Flowering Cherries. Spring is a particularly beautiful time to visit when all the cherry blossoms are out, but it is also worth visiting in the autumn when you can catch the colourful display of maple foliage.
Blenheim Palace Grounds
From Adult 31, children (3-16) 15
Once the home of Winston Churchill, this opulent house is one of the most visited places in the Cotswolds. Although dogs aren’t allowed in all areas, they can go in the Pantry Cafe, the first area of the Walled Garden, and the 2000 acres of parkland.
Daylesford Organic
Often named the most famous farm shop in the Cotswolds, this is worth a visit! As well as a (very expensive) food shop, there is a garden centre, interiors shop, wellness centre and shop, wine bar and cellar, and restaurants.
If you are visiting with a dog, you can explore almost all of Daylesford Organic, with the exception of The Trough and Interiors section.
Almost any Pub
Thoughts of an English pub usually conjure up pictures of a crackling wood fire, wooden beams, and a dog curled up at your feet. Jeremy Clarkson even named his pub, The Farmer’s Dog. It probably won’t surprise you then that dogs are allowed in most pubs, and in many, they are openly welcomed! You will often find bowls of water, dog treats on the bar, and even dog snack menus.
Although every pub I have come across (and I’ve run and visited many!) accepts dogs, it is always wise to check the website first. Some pubs only allow dogs in the bar areas, keeping the restaurant and dining areas off limits.
Where to Stay
There is no shortage of dog-friendly places to stay in the Cotswolds. Many boutique hotels offer dog-friendly rooms, sometimes included and sometimes for a small surcharge. Some excellent options are:
The Fish, Broadway
This hotel is located on the Farncombe Estate. With 500-acres, there is space to walk your dog here! It is also home to the award-winning Dormy House, The Hook restaurants, and a small lake. Activities can also be booked for the more adventurous, such as axe-throwing, quadbiking, and archery.
There is a range of accommodation to choose from, including traditional rooms, treehouses, shepherd huts, and suites. If you plan to stay with a dog, just make sure you call the reservations team as they will allocate you a dog-friendly room. There is also a small outdoor bath/shower area to hose down any mucky dogs after a walk in the countryside.
Bull, Burford
This relatively new hotel prides itself on being ‘100% dog friendly,’ which is all you need to know. On Burford High Street, this is a great base to explore from. If you would rather stay closer to home, there are enough bars and restaurants inside the hotel to keep you busy! Dogs are welcome in all the common areas, and all dog rooms come with dog bowls and beds.
Dog-Friendly Cottages
This website is a bit like Airbnb, but just for dog-friendly places to stay. You can filter to suit your party size, location, and budget, always safe in the knowledge that your dog will be welcome.
Dog-Etiquette
Although dogs are welcome in most places in the Cotswolds, you should still follow certain rules.
Keep them on a short lead: When exploring and going in to shops, keep dogs on a short lead for everyone’s safety and comfort.
Most children’s playgrounds are dog-free: Every public playground we have visited has been dog-free, but always check the signage if you aren’t sure.
Ask before you go into a shop if it isn’t clear: If you are unsure, just pop your head in and ask.
Always carry poo bags: As simple as it sounds. Nobody wants to step in dog poo that a lazy owner hasn’t picked up.
FAQs
Can I take my dog everywhere?
Yes, although you can take them to most places. Some pubs and attractions may have dog-free areas. If you are unsure, it is worth asking beforehand.
Can I take my dog when I go out for dinner in the Cotswolds?
Yes, but you will need to choose somewhere that allows dogs. As a general rule, restaurants are a mixed bag, but pubs and cafes are usually fine.
Where can I walk my dog?
The Cotswolds are famous for their walks, so you will be spoilt for choice. Just make sure you keep dogs on a lead near livestock and pick up any mess.
