Considering how many people in the UK have dogs (estimated to be around 54 million as of 2017) it's surprising how many hotels aren't dog friendly. And many hotels that claim they are, clearly don't really want four paws on their grounds. For dog owners, finding a dog friendly hotel can be quite frustrating. There certainly aren't as many canine friendly hotels as there should be. But it's not all bad news. suggest that hotels that open their doors to dogs increase their revenue by an average of 30 per cent. Now there's a tempting incentive if we ever did see one.
There are a select few hotels who recognise the benefits of allowing Fido to put his paws up in their rooms. For example, the Park Hyatt hotel in Vienna offers a service where they take dogs out to the theatre. Some hotels have amazing welcome packs for dogs and even doggy spa treatments. We don't always need to go that far. Many of us just want to be able to bring our dog to a hotel without having to worry. Or not have to narrow down our hotel choice quite so much. It does mean that when you travel with your pooch you have less options of where to stay. And there often are less luxurious hotels to choose from - can't you stay somewhere plush with your pooch? Well, the quality of dog friendly hotels really does depend on where you go in the UK, and also abroad. Some countries like Austria and Germany have more choice, whereas others are lacking.
Last year Brits spent £4. 6 million on their pets, and may owners really want to bring Fido along when they travel. It's likely that more pet friendly hotels will open to cater to this demand, especially when they realise they can get more bookings and make more money. In 2016 the BBC wrote about the rise in pet friendly hotels: 'While most pet-friendly hotels don't go to quite the levels of the Park Hyatt Vienna, it is in fact indicative of the big growth in recent years in the number of hotels that allow people to check in with their dogs, cats or other animals. 'Other travel sites have reported a rise in demand for dog friendly hotels. Hotels. com says:'We have witnessed a huge increase in demand for pet-friendly hotels, and guests wanting to travel with their animals. Demand is growing year-on-year, with a large proportion of hotels across the globe now not only accommodating for pets, but also advertising this key feature. '
It seems there is certainly more interest around dog friendly accommodation. However, in many instances, it's still more complicated than it really needs to be. Hotels need to welcome dogs with open arms rather than simply 'allow' them. And perhaps they also need to be more flexible when it comes to rules. For example, some hotels only allow one dog, whilst others will add on a substantial extra charge per night per dog. We're certainly making progress, but it needs to continue and evolve in a way that makes dog owners feel more comfortable.
10 Of The Best Dog-Friendly Hotels In The UK
The UK is home to some of the world's most welcoming dog-friendly hotels, and with many situated in idyllic locations like the Lake District and New Forest, they provide a perfect escape for busy-lived pet owners. Whether you're looking for weekend away on a budget, or prepared to indulge in something a little more luxurious, we've compiled a list of the country's top ten accommodations for you and your pooch.
The Grosvenor Arms, Dorset
With rooms from as little as £90 per night, this cosy countryside hotel is ideal for dog owners looking for long scenic walks and peaceful relaxation. Following a full renovation, the former Georgian coach house now features a well-furnished bar and restaurant area featuring separate menus for your pooch, along with an outdoor courtyard perfect for resting your legs after a morning stroll. The offers affordability and comfort, making for a tranquil getaway weekend break to help recharge the batteries of both owner and dog.
Polurrian Bay Hotel, Cornwall
Perched on the Cornish coastline close to Land's End and Mount's Bay, the is surrounded by twelve acres of beautiful landscape with plenty of sea views. A dog's haven, at less than 15 minutes' drive from Lizard Point, your pooch will be provided with blankets and feeding bowls for an extra £15, added to the very reasonable starting price of £99 per night. And after all of those walks, the property can offer you some relaxation in the form of a variety of spa treatment facilities and pampering services.
Saracens Head, Snowdonia
Snowdonia is a popular spot for dog lovers, and the Welsh National Park is not short on its offerings when it comes to dog-friendly hotels. The hotel, located beside the River Colwyn near Portmeirion, is one of many properties to welcome your four-legged friends. At only £105 per night, it's affordable too. With around 827 miles of National Park to explore on your doorstep, the area needs no introduction for walkers. And when you arrive back to the Saracen Head, why not try their cask ale the Faithful Gelert - named after legendary dog.
The Goodwood Hotel, West Sussex
The Southern sporting estate boasts luxury when talking canines, with its very own private members' club for your pet - The Kennel Club, who have permission to access most hotel spaces. For a reasonable £125 per night, guests can enjoy the estate's finest walking routes, relax in one the classy 93 bedrooms and enjoy fine dining in the Kennels private club. visitors can also purchase the Kennels Dog's Membership package. For £50 per annum, a personalised dog bowl will be kept for your later visits, with proceeds given to the charity Canine Partner.
Battlesteads Hotel, Northumberland
Guests of the in the picturesque village of Wark will be greeted by Winston, the resident Labrador, who is always keen to make new friends. The hotel is situated in an ideal location for exploring the Northumberland National Park, and just an eight-minute drive will see you arrive in the beautiful landscape popular for walkers and cyclists. With plenty of fresh air, along with a cosy atmosphere in the hotel's bar where you will find a log burner, the £140 price tag on rooms seems extremely worthwhile for the offerings of this property.
Inn on the Square, Keswick
Recent voted the most dog-friendly town in the UK, Keswick is no stranger to our four-legged friends throughout the year. is a prevalent choice with dog owners when visiting Cumbria, and it's no surprise. The hotel permits two dogs per bedroom, for no extra cost than your £190 per night, as well as providing an outdoor hose and dry towels for showering your muddy pooch. Canines can wonder the hotel lounges and bars, and will have lots of countryside to explore in surrounding areas like Derwentwater, The Borrowdale Valley and Skiddaw.
Armathwaite Hall Hotel, Lake District
Nestled into 400 acres of nature close to Bassenthwaite Lake, this similar Lake District property boasts impressive scenery that dog lovers will simply fall in love with. encompasses an abundance of canine facilities including beds, cushions, doggy treats and waste bags, for an extra £15 on top of the standard room rate of £205 per night. Local hikes of the area can take up to three and a half hours, providing breath-taking views of nearby Bassenthwaite and Derwentwater. On your return, spa facilities are available for guests to indulge in a little more luxury.
Four Seasons Hotel, Hampshire
If you're looking for a little more luxury on your break, then the in Winchfield may appeal to your needs. The resort's concierge team are always on hand to provide plenty of dog-sitting facilities and activities. For £35, an added extra to the £255 room price, your pooch will be thoroughly spoilt with personalised treats €“ as long as they weight under 30 kilograms. Dogs can enjoy the company of resident black Labrador, Oliver Beckington, or explore Hampshire's fine landscapes with their owners, pleasing both parties equally.
The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences, London
The provide the perfect inner-city hotel experience, where pet guests are given priority and plagued with lots of attention. The properties' prestigious statue of their resident dog, Douglas, is a symbol of the dedication they hold towards our canines. For an indulging price tag of £259 per night, guests can enjoy views over the capital's Green Park and easy access to Mayfair and Knightsbridge. Hiro & Wolf, a fashion collection catered to dogs, have further teamed up with the residence, meaning quilted coats and ruffle collars can be rented by guests for their companions.
Cliveden House, Berkshire
Surrounded by more than 250 acres of National Trust park, the in Berkshire is the essence of luxury for getaways with your favourite animals. If you're prepared to spend £340 per night on the luxurious residence, then an extra £35 can allow your pooch to experience the same extravagances €“ with a doggie welcome pack, bed, water bowl, feeding mat and in-room meal from a specialist canine menu all included. Dog-sitting facilities and walking services are available, yet most owners will revel in the opportunity to explore such picturesque scenery during their stay in Berkshire.