The UK’s best dog-friendly destinations you’ve never heard of
Date published: 22 May 2026
The UK isn’t short on dog-friendly destinations, but the same big hitters tend to dominate every list. Meanwhile, there are quieter villages, lesser-known coastal spots and tucked-away countryside escapes that dogs arguably enjoy even more. Less traffic. More trails. Better sticks. These hidden gems are easily among the most dog-friendly places for a relaxed escape with your four-legged co-pilot.
Some dogs are happiest charging across beaches until they resemble sandy gremlins. Others prefer woodland walks followed by an aggressive nap beside a pub fire. Luckily, the UK delivers both in abundance. From peaceful harbour villages to mountain-backed hideaways, these are some of the best places to take dogs if you’re craving fresh air and a break from crowded tourist hotspots.
Better still, many of these destinations make ideal cottage getaway locations. You’ll find scenic walking routes straight from the front door, dog-friendly pubs that genuinely welcome muddy paws and enough open space to properly switch off for a few days. Lead optional. Spare towels highly recommended.
Alnmouth, Northumberland
Big beach energy without the big crowds. Alnmouth is the sort of place where dogs hit the sand and instantly forget all prior training. One minute you’re wandering pastel-painted streets, the next you’re on windswept dunes with the North Sea doing its dramatic thing in the background.
There are plenty of dog-friendly pubs for post-walk refuelling too, which feels especially deserved after a salty coastal stomp. Small village. Huge walking potential.
Staithes, North Yorkshire
Staithes has proper old fishing village charm, but without feeling polished within an inch of its life. Steep little ginnels lead down to the harbour, dogs snoop around rock pools, and the cliff-top Cleveland Way serves up sea views that’ll have you walking far longer than planned.
It’s compact, cosy and wonderfully scruffy around the edges in the best possible way. Bring a lead for the lanes and spare towels for absolutely everything else.
Helford, Cornwall
Not all of Cornwall is surfboards and queues for ice cream. Helford is quieter, leafier and made for slower days with a dog in tow. Think wooded creekside walks, hidden coves and waterside pubs where muddy paws barely raise an eyebrow.
The whole area has that gently wild feeling that makes you want to ditch your phone for the afternoon. Ideal for dogs who prefer sniff-heavy adventures over battling busy promenades.
Beddgelert, Snowdonia
If your dog treats every walk like an endurance event, Beddgelert is the dream. Sitting right in the middle of Snowdonia, the village gives you instant access to riverside strolls, forest trails and full-blown mountain hikes.
There’s also a legendary dog story tied to the village, which somehow makes it feel even more fitting for a canine getaway. After a long day outdoors, local pubs are more than ready for soggy walkers and sleepy dogs.
Solva, Pembrokeshire
Solva feels like a place you accidentally discover and then immediately tell everyone about. A tiny harbour sits at the bottom of the village, coastal paths snake off in both directions, and the sea air seems to tire dogs out in record time.
There’s plenty to explore without needing to drive anywhere, which is always a win when muddy paws are involved. Pembrokeshire really shows off around here.
Plockton, Highlands
Palm trees in the Highlands shouldn’t work, yet somehow Plockton pulls it off beautifully. Set on a sheltered loch, this little village is peaceful without ever feeling sleepy.
Dogs can roam shoreline paths, tackle nearby hill walks or simply patrol the harbour in search of dropped fish and attention from strangers. It’s also brilliantly placed for exploring the west coast without committing to the busier tourist hotspots nearby. Calm, scenic and slightly surreal.
Cushendun, County Antrim
Cushendun has a wonderfully tucked-away feel to it, surrounded by glens, beaches and rolling countryside that practically begs for long dog walks. The village itself is small but full of character, while the nearby coastline delivers dramatic scenery without the crowds you’ll find elsewhere along the Causeway Coast.
One walk quickly turns into three around here. Especially when your dog realises there’s sand involved.
Cartmel, Cumbria
Yes, Cartmel is famous for sticky toffee pudding, but dogs are probably more interested in the endless countryside surrounding it. This is the Lake District with a calmer, more laid-back mood, where you can trade packed promenades for quieter trails and cosy village evenings.
There are woodland walks, open fields and enough dog-friendly spots to make bringing your four-legged sidekick feel completely effortless. Dessert afterwards is strongly recommended.
Beer, Devon
With a name like Beer, expectations are naturally high. Thankfully, this Devon village delivers.
White cliffs frame the pebbled beach, fishing boats bob in the bay and the South West Coast Path is right there waiting for energetic dogs and enthusiastic walkers alike. It feels more low-key than many Devon seaside spots, which only adds to its charm. Come for the sea air, stay because your dog refuses to leave.
Thornton-le-Dale, North Yorkshire
Thornton-le-Dale looks almost suspiciously pretty, with stone cottages, little bridges and enough greenery to make every photo look edited. Luckily, it’s not all style over substance.
Sitting on the edge of the North York Moors means fantastic walking routes start practically from the village centre, whether your dog prefers woodland wanders or all-day hikes. Afterwards, cosy pubs and cafés provide the kind of warm welcome muddy walkers always appreciate.
Rostrevor, County Down
Some dogs are built for gentle strolls. Others need forests, mountains and enough space to properly charge about. Rostrevor is firmly for the second category.
Sitting beside Carlingford Lough and backed by the Mourne Mountains, it’s packed with trails ranging from easy riverside walks to steep climbs with huge views at the top. Even the village itself feels geared towards outdoor adventures. Expect tired legs, muddy boots and one very happy dog.
After all, dogs rarely care about the big-name destinations. Give them a beach to sprint across, a woodland trail packed with new smells and a pub floor to collapse on afterwards, and they’re sorted. If these hidden spots have inspired your next escape, make sure to browse our remote dog-friendly cottages too – perfect for peaceful stays, muddy adventures and switching off properly for a few days.
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.
