12 bucket list adventures for you and your dog
Date published: 10 Jan 2025
Find your dog-friendly holiday cottage
Date published: 10 Jan 2025
Looking for tail-wagging, paw-stomping adventures to share with your four-legged best mate?
From scaling mountains and splashing in the waves to cosy nights under the stars, we’ve rounded up 12 epic dog friendly days out guaranteed to get you both grinning, and tick off some must-do experiences together too.
So grab the lead, load up on treats and let the adventures begin - it’s time to make some paw-some memories!
1. Hike Snowdon together
Ready to make your pup the king (or queen) of the mountain? Tackle Snowdon, Wales’ highest peak, via the Llanberis Path - dog-friendly and full of wow-factor views.
Your furry pal will love sniffing out new scents and you’ll both feel on top of the world at the summit. Just make sure your dog’s up to the challenge – get some long-walk training in together before you set off for some extra dog fun.
Don’t forget a selfie to show off your mountain-conquering duo. Bonus: the café at the top welcomes dogs, because every good hike deserves a snack stop.
2. Explore the Jurassic Coast
Does your pup have a nose for adventure? The Jurassic Coast is one of the best places to visit with dogs - it's packed with excitement, from scampering along sandy beaches like Durdle Door to sniffing out hidden fossils at Lulworth Cove.
With sea breezes, epic cliffs and plenty of splash zones, this one’s a guaranteed tail-wagger. Who knows, your dog might even think they’ve discovered a dinosaur bone. (Spoiler: it’s probably a stick.)
3. Paddleboarding in the Lake District
Why walk when you can paddle? Strap on a doggy life jacket and hit the water together in the Lake District.
Coniston Water and Derwentwater are perfect for paddleboarding adventures, with calm waters and Insta-worthy scenery. Your pooch will feel like a captain as they perch proudly on the board – until they inevitably jump in for a quick splash!
4. Ride the 'Harry Potter' steam train
Choo-choo! Hop aboard the West Highland Line and treat your dog to the most scenic train ride in the UK - and one of the best dog-friendly tourist attractions too!
This iconic journey winds through stunning Scottish landscapes, with lochs, mountains and the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct (hello, Harry Potter fans).
Dogs are welcome aboard and the views are so good even the most energetic pups will sit still to take it all in.
5. Discover the Peak District’s trails
If your dog loves a good leg stretch, the Peak District is calling.
The Monsal Trail is a winner - flat, easy and packed with tunnels and views that’ll have tails wagging in no time.
Afterwards, head to a dog-friendly pub for a well-earned pint (and maybe a sneaky treat for your furry hiking buddy). It’s the perfect combo of walkies and chill time.
6. Visit Tintagel Castle in Cornwall
Step into a world of legends and let your dog channel their inner knight at Tintagel Castle.
Perched on the Cornish coast, this historic spot is as dramatic as it gets. Dogs are welcome to explore the ruins and coastal paths, so you can both enjoy a dose of history with a side of sea breeze.
Just watch out for excitable zoomies on the cliff edges!
7. Stroll through the New Forest
Picture it: your dog bounding through heathlands, sniffing out new smells and maybe even making friends with a wild pony or two.
That’s the New Forest for you - an off-lead paradise where pups can explore to their heart’s content.
And when they’re all tuckered out? Head to one of the many dog-friendly pubs for a pint and a snooze by the fire. Heaven.
8. Take a canoeing holiday on the River Wye
Canoeing? With a dog? You bet!
Grab a paddle and let your pooch ride shotgun as you glide along the stunning River Wye, in Shropshire.
With scenic countryside, riverside pubs and plenty of splashing opportunities, this is one watery adventure that’s as relaxing as it is fun. Just make sure you bring a towel for the inevitable shake-off when they hop out!
9. Beach days in Norfolk
Norfolk’s beaches are a dream come true for sandy paws. Holkham Beach is pure doggy bliss - wide-open spaces and plenty of room for zoomies.
For a mix of beach and forest vibes, head to Wells-next-the-Sea, where the pinewoods are perfect for shady strolls. Wrap up the day with fish and chips while your pup snoozes happily by your side.
10. Hit up a festival together
Let’s face it: your dog deserves to be the centre of attention, and DogFest is where they’ll shine.
Held across the UK, this celebration of all things canine is packed with fun activities, expert advice and (of course) treats galore.
From doggy dashes to agility courses, it’s a full day of tail-wagging joy - and the perfect bonding experience for you both.
11. Go on a glamping stargazing adventure
Swap city lights for starlight on a glamping trip in a Dark Sky Reserve. Northumberland and Exmoor are top spots, with cozy dog-friendly pods and endless skies.
Spend the day exploring the countryside, then cuddle up under a blanket to stargaze with your furry bestie. Who needs a telescope when you’ve got a dog who thinks every twinkle is a squirrel?
12. Walk Hadrian’s Wall
One of the ultimate things to do with dogs is to tackle the Hadrian’s Wall Walk with your furry best friend by your side. Spanning 84 miles coast-to-coast, this epic trail takes you through ancient Roman history, sweeping countryside and some seriously scenic spots.
Take it at a pace your pup can handle, breaking the walk into manageable sections with plenty of rest stops for water, snacks and belly rubs. From rugged moorland to lush green fields, it’s an unforgettable journey for both of you.
The UK is absolutely packed with incredible experiences you can share with your pup, so be sure to check out our full range of dog-friendly cottages to help you start completing your own bucket list together.
Meet the author
Ian LewisIan's worked in travel for over 15 years and has written about destinations across the whole of the UK (and beyond). He loves all kinds of getaways with every member of the family on two legs or four, seeking out the more unique and interesting properties wherever he can.
