Yet again, it’s the year of the staycation. Rather than travelling abroad, UK holidaymakers are now opting to stay in the country. Staycations have become incredibly popular as of late and this is only expected to increase in the next few years.
Planning a staycation doesn’t just save money and hassle, but it also allows us to bring along our furry friends. Finding a location that is dog-friendly and the family can agree on can be tough. But fear not, we’ve come up with the best destinations based on various factors like climate, amenities, and attractions.
Whether you’re after a relaxing coastal getaway or an adventurous city break, here are the top places to visit with your dog.
North Yorkshire
With two national parks and vast expanses of moorland, North Yorkshire is a doggy’s paradise. The Yorkshire Dales offers countless opportunities to go on long walks and hikes, with its most famous trails being the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail and Malham Cove. Along these, you’ll find natural beauty that you and your dog can explore freely together.
The other national park in North Yorkshire is the North York Moors National Park, a hiker’s paradise filled with valleys and woodlands. Discover hidden gems like Sutton Bank and Roseberry Topping.
If you feel like staying in the city, why not head to York? The well-preserved medieval city welcomes furry friends with open arms. There are plenty of dog-friendly attractions here, such as the City Walls, The National Railway Museum, and Rowntree Park. Additionally, a large number of the trains to York allow small animals on board for free. Just make to keep them on a leash at all times.
Cumbria
Located in Northern England is Cumbria, a brilliant location for dogs who love the outdoors. The rural area is home to a wide range of pet-friendly accommodation, towns, and villages. You’ll also find campsites that are famous for being dog-friendly – some with dedicated dog showers!
Since Cumbria is home to The Lake District, there’s an abundance of walks and activities to get involved in during your time here, all suitable for dogs. Dodd Wood and Fell is a great trail; at five miles long, it’s perfect for little legs and provides stunning views of Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite. Alternatively, you can attempt the Derwentwater Circuit, a 1-mile-long flat circuit that follows ancient woodlands and the shoreline.
North Cornwall
The northern hemisphere of Cornwall is a haven for dogs. With golden beaches to play fetch and dog-friendly pubs to stop for a drink or two, the coastal county provides a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The majority of the beaches in the beach town of Newquay are dog-friendly throughout the year, but it’s recommended that you head to Holywell Bay. Here, your canine companion can paddle in streams and explore sand dunes to their heart’s content.
Dogs are also welcome to visit the Eden Project, one of Cornwall’s most iconic attractions. While they’re not allowed in the biomes, there’s plenty of space to roam and an undercover dining area specifically for dogs.
Published by HOLR Magazine.