If you’re one of the many people who can’t quite enjoy a holiday without your dog in tow, you’re definitely not alone. 83% of dog owners feel guilty leaving their pets behind when they go away. And honestly, who wouldn’t miss those waggy tails and sloppy kisses? With more families planning their breaks around their pups, UK staycations are booming—especially with Easter holidays around the corner.
But finding the right dog-friendly spot isn’t just about ticking a box. Dogs need up to two hours of outdoor time a day, so you’ll want somewhere with wide open spaces, friendly beaches, and maybe a few pet-welcoming pubs thrown in too. Let’s walk through some of the best UK destinations where both you and your dog can have the time of your lives.
Wales – wide beaches and waggy tails
Wales might just be your dog’s dream come true. Loads of space, salty air, and no awkward “No Dogs Allowed” signs in sight. Whether you’re after long walks or lazy beach days, this spot delivers.
Conwy Morfa Beach
Conwy Morfa Beach is the ultimate playground for pups. Think miles of soft yellow sand where dogs can run wild—and the best bit? Dogs are welcome all year round. It’s spacious, easy to get to, and offers gorgeous views of the Conwy Estuary. Great for sandy paws, zoomies, and making family memories without the hassle.
Tywyn Beach
Fancy something a bit different? Tywyn Beach has more than just the sea and sand. You’ve got dunes, rockpools, and even a charming promenade nearby full of small shops and cosy cafes. Perfect for exploring with your four-legged sidekick—plus you’ll never be far from a decent coffee.
Yorkshire – hikes, heritage, and hearty pub lunches
Not every dog wants to paddle in the sea. Some just want to chase sticks and sniff everything in sight. If that sounds like your pup, Yorkshire’s countryside is calling.
North York Moors
The North York Moors National Park is basically one massive adventure for dogs. Picture wide-open trails, fields of purple heather, and spots like the Hole of Horcum (it sounds weird, but it’s beautiful). The best part? Loads of walking routes are pet-friendly, and you’ll bump into welcoming pubs and tea rooms that don’t mind a bit of mud on paws—or shoes.
Where to eat and drink with your dog in Yorkshire
- The Dog & Gun Inn – clue’s in the name! Known for being cosy and super pet-welcoming.
- The Star Inn The City – right by the river, perfect for a chilled lunch with a view.
- The Black Sheep Brewery – yes, dogs are allowed. Yes, it’s as fun as it sounds.
Whether you’re after proper pub grub or just a pint with your pooch, Yorkshire makes it easy.
Dorset – sea breezes and southern charm
Heading south? Dorset has some stunning spots that don’t just tolerate dogs—they roll out the red carpet (or, y’know, the sandy path).
Durdle Door
You’ve probably seen photos of Durdle Door, the beach with the big rock arch. But did you know it’s a dog-friendly hotspot too? It’s near Swanage Bay View, a holiday park that happily welcomes dogs. The beach itself has tons of space and no restrictions on dogs, so it’s ideal for playing fetch or just soaking up the views.
Dorset Heaths
More into nature than waves? Try the Dorset Heaths, a beautiful stretch of countryside packed with colourful flowers and wildlife. Dogs are welcome, but you’ll need to keep them on a lead to protect the local animals. Still, it’s a lovely place for a peaceful wander, especially if your pup enjoys sniffing every bush along the way.
Quick round-up: top dog-friendly spots in the UK
Here’s a quick cheat sheet if you’re still undecided:
| Location | Why it’s great for dogs | Top spot |
|---|---|---|
| Wales | Spacious beaches, year-round dog access | Conwy Morfa Beach |
| Yorkshire | Green countryside, walking trails, dog-friendly pubs | North York Moors |
| Dorset | Iconic beaches, nature reserves, dog-friendly parks | Durdle Door |
“Holidays should include all the family – dogs too”
“More people are choosing staycations because it means their dog can come along too,” says Laura Miller, Group Head of Marketing at Away Resorts. “We’ve seen a big shift in how people plan trips—they’re looking for places with space, scenery, and somewhere that’s just as relaxing for their pets as it is for them.”
And honestly, that just makes sense. A holiday where you don’t have to stress about kennels, miss your dog, or feel guilty? Sign us up.
Next time you’re planning a break, don’t leave your dog out of the fun. Whether it’s chasing waves in Wales, hiking hills in Yorkshire, or sniffing around the heaths of Dorset—there’s plenty of room in the UK for tail-wagging adventures.
And hey, who says a perfect holiday has to involve a passport anyway?
