Nine dog-friendly places to eat Dorset
With its outstanding areas of natural beauty and stunning dog-friendly beaches, Dorset is a brilliant holiday destination to visit with your four-legged friends. As well as ample activities to suit both humans and canines, you’ll be spoilt for choice by tempting dining spots. From cosy cafes to pubs with incredible beer gardens, here’s our pick of the best dog-friendly places to eat in Dorset.
1. The Greyhound Inn
Location: Corfe
Address: The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham BH20 5EZ
Why dogs love it: The dog-friendly ice cream
Image credit: The Greyhound Inn
The Greyhound Inn is the ideal spot for a delicious lunch after exploring the charming, history-packed village of Corfe. Settle down at a table in the quaint, low ceilinged bar area or bask in the sun with your furry friend in the lovely garden overlooking Corfe Castle. There’s a wide selection of real ales on offer, plus the Greyhound Inn is known for hosting several festivals and music events throughout the year.
2. Cobb Arms
Location: Lyme Regis
Address: Marine Parade, Lyme Regis DT7 3JF
Why dogs love it: The delicious dog treats
Image credit: The Cobb Arms
Venture all the way down to Dorset’s border with Devon to dine at the lovely Cobb Arms. The traditional pub overlooks Lyme Regis’ picture-perfect Cobb Harbour and is a great venue for a meal before or after a long walk. Tempt your tastebuds with various fresh seafood dishes and don’t forget to ask the bar staff about the free dog biscuits!
3. The Anchor Inn
Location: Bridport
Address: Seatown, Bridport DT6 6JU
Why dogs love it: The direct beach access
Image credit: The Anchor Inn
Boasting one of the best beer gardens on the coast, it’s easy to see why this dog-friendly place is so popular! The Anchor Inn lies right on the beach in Seatown, just outside of Bridport, and within seconds of the Golden Cap cliffs. After a scenic coastal walk with your pooch, why not pop in for lunch or drinks? Dogs will be greeted with bowls of water, while dog-owners will love the Anchor Inn’s moreish menu that features numerous local ingredients.
4. Key West Bar & Grill
Location: Bournemouth
Address: Pier Approach, Bournemouth BH2 5AA
Why dogs love it: The sights and smells of the sea
Image credit: Key West Bar & Grill
If you want to feel like you’re floating on water as you eat, you can’t beat the Key West Bar & Grill. It’s found right at the end of Bournemouth’s Pier and is a brilliant dog-friendly venue for breakfast, lunch or dinner. You’ll only be able to sit outside on the terrace if you’re dining with your pooch, but it’s the best place for panoramic ocean views!
5. Nothe Cafe
Location: Weymouth
Address: Nothe House, Barrack Rd, Weymouth DT4 8TY
Why dogs love it: They get to be involved in a family outing!
Image credit: Nothe Fort
Weymouth’s historic Nothe Fort is a must-see on holidays to the seaside town. What’s more, it welcomes well-behaved dogs on leads! Once you’re done exploring the Victorian sea fort and soaking up the breathtaking sea vistas, head to the Nothe Fort Cafe for a cuppa, cream tea or home-cooked breakfast. The casual cafe has a range of colourful benches and a simple yet mouth-watering menu.
6. The Thimble Inn
Location: Piddlehinton, Dorchester
Address: 14 High St, Piddlehinton, Dorchester DT2 7TD
Why dogs love it: Snoozing near the log fire
Image credit: The Thimble Inn
Cosy vibes and gourmet pub grub makes The Thimble Inn a fantastic place to dine on cooler days. The dog-friendly pub and restaurant in Piddlehinton is housed inside a charming 18th century building and has a huge, leafy beer garden perfect for when the sun does come out. Vegans and vegetarians should ask for The Thimble Inn’s separate menu which features a selection of delectable plant-based dishes.
7. Smugglers Inn
Location: Osmington Mills, Weymouth
Address: Osmington Mills, Weymouth DT3 6HF
Why dogs love it: The big garden and drool-worthy treats
Image credit: Smugglers Inn
Smugglers Inn is handily located in Osmington Mills along the South West Coast Path, making it a great pitstop for those on a coastal hike with their canine. The pub dates back to the 18th century and has stunning oldy-worldy interiors! Dogs can look forward to snoozing in the sun in the pub’s large garden and snacking on delicious doggy-friendly ice cream.
8. Tawnys Wine Bar
Location: Swanage
Address: 52 High St, Swanage BH19 2NX
Why dogs love it: Being snuck yummy food under the table
Want a break from pubs on your Dorset break? Tawnys Wine Bar is a chic venue right in the heart of Swanage. It’s perfect for sumptuous cuisine and a few glasses of good wine. What’s more, it’s very dog-friendly! Soak up the bistro-style decor and dine on regional delicacies (think Exmoor venison and Dorset-caught shellfish) while your pooch naps under the table.
9. Cloisters
Location: Wimborne Minster
Address: 40 East St., Wimborne BH21 1DX
Why dogs love it: It’s great for meeting other doggies
Image credit: Cloisters
You can’t visit the South West for a staycation without indulging in at least one cream tea! Cloisters is a cosy, eco-friendly cafe in Wimborne Minster that not only welcomes dogs with open arms, but also has a tasty menu of sweet treats and savoury bites. Visit for breakfast or go in the afternoon to order the Cloisters’ High Tea, featuring finger sandwiches, homemade cakes and scones. There’s also plenty of vegan and gluten-free options.
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