Are you already planning your summer trips for 2018 with your pampered pooch? You'll obviously want visit towns and cities that will put a smile on your dog's face as well as your own. If you're travelling with your dog in tow, you'll no doubt be interested in some of the best staycation destinations across the UK. Staycations are growing in popularity, especially with animal owners who want to be able to pitch up with their dogs without any hassle.
So, with that in mind, we thought now was the ideal time to make our dog-owning readers aware of Britain's most dog-friendly towns and cities. These five popular locations are ideal for having new adventures with your canine chum:
1. Brighton & Hove
It is said that the Sussex seaside resort of Brighton hosts more dog meetup groups per population than any other British city. As a city that's brimming with dog-lovers, you won't be surprised to hear there are plenty of dog-friendly pubs and restaurants to sample.
The Ginger Dog is a particularly popular gastropub that caters for all the family and is very centrally located. It's just a five-minute walk to Marine Parade and the beachfront from here.
If you're prepared to get in your car and explore the wider area of Brighton, the South Downs are the perfect place for a walk with your dog. Soak up breathtaking views of the Channel along Devil's Dyke - your dog is guaranteed to find other canines to socialise with there too!
2. Edinburgh
Scotland's capital city of Edinburgh really has a lot going for it as a dog-friendly destination. There is a plethora of expansive green spaces to explore with your pup such as Holyrood Park, The Water of Leith and theawe-inspiring Arthur's Seat. What's great about these areas is that they are within the heartbeat of the city centre, so you haven't got to travel far to exercise your dog.
The city's pubs and restaurants make it clear whether they are dog-friendly as most will display a 'Dogs Welcome' sticker on their front doors or windows.
3. Sheffield
Sheffield's own government website states that the Steel City has more green spaces and public parks than most other European cities. The picturesque Peak District also begins within the city's boundaries which provides a wealth of enjoyable dog walks to explore. The city is also home to a number of dog-friendly bed-and-breakfasts and hotels which is perfect if you're just visiting for a long weekend.
Sheffield's city centre also has some cosy watering holes that allow dogs inside. In fact, take a trip to theDog & Partridge and your dog will even be given a bowl of water while you sample what their bar has to offer!
4. Bristol
Another city which prides itself on offering a warm welcome to dogs is Bristol. There's plenty of dog-friendly accommodation to choose from if you're just visiting on a short break. Furthermore, there'splenty of walks for your dog to explore with you.
Whether it's a slow amble around Bristol's stunning harbour-side or the expansive green parks of Queen Square and Castle Park, they can be right by your side at all times here.
You can even educate your pooch in the arts by taking a trip to see the works of Bristol's world-famous artist, Banksy including the street art on Nelson Street.
5. St Davids
Finally, if you live in Wales or you're looking for somewhere off the beaten track, St Davids comfortably ticks both boxes. It's the smallest city in the UK and subsequently offers a quiet retreat for you and your dog overlooking the Pembrokeshire coastline. Most of Pembrokeshire's beaches are pet-friendly, as Haverfordwest's beautiful Brunel Quay Cycleway. If your dog enjoys watching the wildlife around them, a trip toWestfield Pill Nature Reserve is sure to entertain the pair of you.
We hope that these recommendations have given you food for thought. It's great to see so many leading towns and cities across the UK embracing pets and making it easy for your family to hit the open road and explore!