Just south of the English mainland, the Isle of Wight is more than a collection of golden beaches and lush countryside - it's the UK's largest holiday park. From the coloured sands of Alum Bay to the self-proclaimed 'land of imagination', Blackgang Chine, the Isle of Wight is one of our favourite dog-friendly holiday destinations.
Almost all of the island's best-known attractions welcome dogs. Whether you're taking a tour of the UK's oldest amusement park or exploring the gorgeous gardens of Osborne House, your four-legged friend can be by your side.
Dogs are even allowed to join the fun at Ventnor Botanic Gardens, an award-winning attraction that makes the most of the area's Mediterranean microclimate to host an almost unrivalled collection of beautiful, curious and often downright weird plants. So what are you waiting for? Make for the Isle of Wight, where endless dog-friendly fun awaits.
An island of outstanding natural beauty
Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are parts of Britain that are granted special protection and international admiration thanks to their, well, outstanding natural beauty. With some of the most stunning scenery in the world, Britain is brimming with them; Devon alone boasts a whopping five. But, when it comes to bragging rights, nowhere can compete with the Isle of Wight. In 1963, half of the entire island was added to the list.
Beautiful scenery means brilliant walks
Needless to say, all this stunning scenery makes for some of the best walks in the UK. Here, at Dog Friendly Cottages, we think the route from Brighstone to Niton is the best way to explore the coast of the Isle of Wight.
This leisurely seaside stroll is ideal in the hotter parts of summer when clear skies warm the sea air and the crystal blue sea is perfect for paddling. While a relatively long route, it is far from challenging as you're treated with miles of clean, unspoiled coastline. You'll pass by formidable rock formations, fantastic cliff tops and more than a few picturesque picnic spots, so make sure you pack your camera and a hefty helping of nibbles.
60 miles of beautiful beaches
Few people come to the Isle of Wight and don't set aside at least a day to explore one of its many beautiful beaches. While Shanklin and Ventnor are the tourist's favourites ,for dog-friendly fun you can't beat the sandy shores of Luccombe Bay, which sits directly between the two. Located on the East Coast, with two such famous neighbours stealing the tourist's attention, Luccombe remains relatively quiet year-round, making it perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll.
Another of the Isle of Wight's best-kept secrets is Rocken End, a cove on the South Coast Path. Despite being located just around the corner from Blackgang Chine, this gorgeous stretch of sand is one of the most remote spots on the island. Consistently quiet thanks to its being relatively hard to get to, anyone willing to scramble over the rocks that guard this secluded beach is sure to discover their new safe space.
We'll find the perfect place for you
While deciding on a holiday home in the Isle of Wight is the first step to having a wonderful weekend away, you still need to think about which part of this award-winning island to head to. Luckily, at Dog Friendly Cottages, we're here to help. If you fancy a quaint and quiet escape, we suggest a pet-friendly cottage in the picturesque village of St Lawrence, nestled on the South of the island.
If you crave being in the heart of the action, East Cowes make the ideal base. Or for an endless supply of walking routes, you can't beat the accommodation on the Isle of Wight Coastal Path.
We also know that it's the add-ons and extras which turn getaways from fine to fantastic. From ground-floor swimming pools to back garden golf courses, whatever you want your home to include, let us know, and we'll do our best to make it happen.
Dog-friendly local businesses
The Freshwater Coffee House
Looking for a warm welcome for you and your dog? The Freshwater Coffee House has created a welcoming and homely environment where you can enjoy great coffee and tea; delicious, simple and uncomplicated food; and simply relax. They also strive to be eco-friendly, using compostables while encouraging take-up of their reusable cups made from coffee husks!