Dog-Friendly Attractions UK: The Complete Guide

Finding attractions that genuinely welcome dogs can transform a good day out into a great one. There's something special about exploring a historic castle, wandering through spectacular gardens or riding a heritage steam railway with your four-legged companion by your side. The UK offers an extraordinary variety of dog-friendly attractions, from world-famous landmarks to hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

I've spent countless days exploring attractions across Britain with Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly. From the dramatic ruins of Tintagel Castle to the manicured grounds of stately homes, from forest adventure parks to scenic boat trips, we've discovered that the best days out are those we share together. This guide covers the finest dog-friendly attractions the UK has to offer.

Whether you're planning a dog-friendly holiday or simply looking for somewhere special to spend the day, there's an attraction waiting to welcome you both.

English Heritage Sites

English Heritage manages over 400 historic sites across England, and more than 150 welcome dogs. From mighty castles to atmospheric abbeys, these properties offer fascinating glimpses into the past with your canine companion at your side.

Top Dog-Friendly English Heritage Sites

Tintagel Castle, Cornwall A firm favourite for canine visitors, Tintagel combines dramatic cliff-top ruins steeped in Arthurian legend with a secluded beach perfect for picnics and paddling. Dogs on leads can explore the medieval ruins while you soak in the spectacular coastal views. The cafe welcomes dogs too.

Whitby Abbey, North Yorkshire For nearly 700 years, this splendid 13th-century gothic abbey has towered above the town of Whitby. Take in wonderful views of the coastline and town while exploring the atmospheric ruins. Combine your visit with a walk along the beach or fish and chips in the dog-friendly harbour area below.

Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire One of Britain's biggest historical sites, this vast medieval fortress offers 900 years of history to explore. Climb the towers for fantastic views and walk through the beautifully recreated Elizabethan Garden with your dog on a lead.

Audley End House and Gardens, Essex Wander through acres of parkland remodelled by Capability Brown and enjoy extensive views of the Essex countryside. The beautifully restored parterre, serpentine lake and Cart Yard cafe all welcome dogs.

Marble Hill, London This beautiful Palladian villa sits in 66 acres of outstanding riverside parkland near Richmond. Dogs on leads are welcome in designated areas, including the cafe's outdoor seating. Perfect for family days out in the fresh air.

Battle Abbey, East Sussex Walk the battlefield where Harold fell in 1066 with your dog on a lead. The atmospheric ruins and surrounding grounds make for a fascinating historical day out.

Regional Highlights

Yorkshire: Whitby Abbey, Richmond Castle, Scarborough Castle, Rievaulx Abbey, Helmsley Castle, Pickering Castle

Southwest: Tintagel Castle, Okehampton Castle, Launceston Castle, Restormel Castle

Southeast: Battle Abbey, Dover Castle grounds, Pevensey Castle, Richborough Roman Fort

Midlands: Kenilworth Castle, Boscobel House, Buildwas Abbey, Wenlock Priory

Membership tip: If you plan to visit multiple sites, English Heritage membership offers excellent value with unlimited access to all properties.

National Trust Properties

The National Trust welcomes dogs to most of its outdoor spaces, with many properties specifically catering to four-legged visitors. Their paw print rating system helps identify the most dog-friendly locations, from one paw (limited access) to three paws (dogs welcome almost everywhere).

Understanding the Paw Print System

Three paw prints: Dogs welcome in almost all outdoor areas, often including gardens Two paw prints: Dogs welcome in most outdoor spaces with some restrictions One paw print: Limited dog access, usually grounds and woodland only

Outstanding Dog-Friendly Properties

Studland Bay, Dorset A four-mile stretch of golden sandy beach with heathland behind, home to all six British reptile species. Walking trails through sand dunes and woodland offer varied terrain for dogs to explore year-round. The heathland is a haven for native wildlife, with diverse habitats to discover.

Attingham Park, Shropshire Some 370 acres of glorious woodland to explore, with five miles of river featuring stretches of the Severn and Tern where dogs can paddle. Around 200 fallow deer roam the grounds, adding wildlife interest to this beautiful estate built in 1785. The cafe has outdoor seating where dogs are welcome.

Clent Hills, Worcestershire A special circular dog walking trail where dogs can run off-lead through fields and woodland. Panoramic views extend to the Welsh Black Mountains on clear days. Multiple routes of varying lengths suit all energy levels.

Hardcastle Crags, West Yorkshire Tumbling streams flanked by mossy rocks within a stunning valley surrounding the 19th-century Gibson Mill. The cafe and shop are located within the mill, and dogs can cool off in the numerous streams and weirs. Perfect for dogs who love water.

Sizergh, Cumbria A 1,600-acre estate with varied terrain including an epic medieval house. Several recommended walks, including a three-mile circular route to Park End Moss wetland and a 2.5-mile wildlife walk past a spectacular ancient ash tree. Dogs welcome on leads in the shop, cafe, wild play area and throughout the wider estate.

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, North Yorkshire Dogs on leads are welcome in this UNESCO World Heritage Site's extensive grounds. Explore ancient abbey ruins, wander through the beautiful Studley Royal Water Garden, and discover the Victorian St Mary's church. Over 800 acres offer extensive walking opportunities.

Regional Picks

Cornwall: Lanhydrock estate walks, Lizard Point, Godrevy, Trelissick woodland walks

Devon: Killerton parkland, Castle Drogo grounds, Lydford Gorge, Arlington Court

Lake District: Sizergh, Aira Force, Tarn Hows, Wray Castle grounds

Peak District: Longshaw Estate, Ilam Park, Dovedale

Cotswolds: Hidcote gardens (some areas), Snowshill grounds, Woodchester Park

Kent: White Cliffs of Dover, Emmetts Garden, Scotney Castle grounds, Ightham Mote

Gardens and Stately Homes

Many of Britain's finest gardens welcome dogs, offering beautiful surroundings for leisurely walks.

Outstanding Gardens

Chatsworth House Gardens, Derbyshire The gardens at Chatsworth are open to dogs year-round. Explore the 105-acre garden and 1,000-acre park, though dogs must be on leads.

Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire Dogs are welcome in 2,000 acres of parkland at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, though not in the palace, formal gardens or maze. The outdoor areas offer spectacular walking.

Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire Over 15,000 different tree species across miles of walking paths. Dogs can explore off-lead in designated areas, with seasonal events throughout the year.

Sheffield Park and Garden, East Sussex Some 250 acres of parkland and landscaped gardens originally laid out by Capability Brown. Dogs allowed off-lead in the park and on short leads in the gardens after 1.30pm. Combine with a ride on the Bluebell Railway.

Sherborne Castle Gardens, Dorset Commissioned by Sir Walter Raleigh, these 42 acres of English Landscape Gardens make a truly regal setting for walks. Sweeping lawns, a lake and the ornamental Cascade waterfall designed by Capability Brown.

Exbury Gardens, Hampshire Over 200 acres of woodland and gardens in the New Forest, with a narrow-gauge steam railway. Dogs welcome throughout most areas.

Lost Gardens of Heligan, Cornwall Dogs on leads welcome in outdoor areas of these restored Victorian gardens. Woodland walks and fascinating plant collections.

London and Surrounds

Chiswick House Gardens Dogs can be off-lead in most areas of this 65-acre 18th-century garden, with designated dog-free zones clearly marked. An annual dog show takes place each September.

Hampton Court Palace Gardens Dogs welcome in specific outdoor areas including the Wilderness, Rose Garden and Tiltyard. Not permitted in the palace, formal gardens or maze.

Kenwood House, Hampstead The grounds of this iconic 17th-century building offer beautiful walks with views across London.

Steam Railways

Heritage railways offer wonderful dog-friendly days out, with most welcoming well-behaved dogs on their trains.

Top Dog-Friendly Railways

Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Cumbria Dogs travel all day for just £3, and annual pass holders receive a stylish bandana on their first visit. Part of proceeds go to Dogs Trust. The railway runs through stunning Lake District scenery.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway Travel from Pickering to Whitby through the North York Moors. The dog-friendly tea room at Pickering Station and woodland walks at Newtondale Halt add to the experience. Harry Potter fans will recognise Goathland Station as Hogsmeade.

Bluebell Railway, Sussex Dogs welcome for just £2. Connect with the National Trust Sheffield Park and Garden at the end of the line for a perfect combined day out.

Dartmouth Steam Railway, Devon Steam train rides between Paignton and Kingswear, with boat trips along the River Dart from Dartmouth to Totnes. Dogs welcome on trains and boats.

South Devon Railway Heritage line between Buckfastleigh and Totnes with museum. Dogs welcome on trains.

Lynton and Barnstaple Railway, Devon Well-behaved dogs travel free when accompanied by a paying passenger. Beautiful Exmoor scenery.

Isle of Wight Steam Railway Dogs welcome on this historic railway running through the island's countryside.

Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, Wales Dogs welcome on these scenic Welsh narrow-gauge railways running through Snowdonia.

Perrygrove Railway, Forest of Dean Family attraction with steam railway, adventure play areas and indoor village. Very dog-friendly with cafe welcoming four-legged visitors.

Exbury Gardens Railway, Hampshire Narrow-gauge railway running through the spectacular gardens. Dogs welcome on trains and throughout most garden areas.

Theme Parks and Family Attractions

While many major theme parks don't allow dogs, several family attractions welcome four-legged visitors.

Dog-Friendly Theme Parks

The Milky Way Adventure Park, Devon Celebrating 40 years in 2024, this North Devon attraction welcomes pet dogs alongside guide dogs. Dogs must be calm, friendly and on leads, and can't access play areas during shows. Over 110,000 square feet of indoor fun plus outdoor attractions.

Watermouth Castle, Devon Dogs welcome at this family theme park near Ilfracombe, featuring rides, play areas and vintage curiosities.

Crealy Theme Park, Devon Dogs welcome in outdoor areas of this popular family attraction.

Babbacombe Model Village, Devon Model village set in beautiful gardens near Torquay. Dogs on leads welcome throughout.

Adventure Parks and Forests

Go Ape Several Go Ape locations welcome dogs, including Moors Valley in the New Forest and Bedgebury in Kent. Dogs can accompany non-climbing members of the party in forest areas.

Forestry England Sites All Forestry England forests welcome dogs, with many offering adventure play, cycling trails and cafes. Popular dog-friendly sites include Grizedale, Haldon, Sherwood and Moors Valley.

Bewilderwood, Norfolk and Cheshire Dogs on leads welcome at these magical forest adventure parks.

Boat Trips and Cruises

Many boat operators welcome dogs, offering unique perspectives on Britain's waterways.

Lake and River Cruises

Windermere Lake Cruises, Cumbria Dogs travel free on all cruises around Lake Windermere. A wonderful way to see the Lake District from the water.

Derwentwater Launches, Cumbria Dogs welcome on these launches connecting points around Derwentwater. Hop on and off to explore walking trails.

Beaulieu River Cruises, Hampshire Dogs welcome on scenic cruises along this New Forest river.

Norfolk Broads Many boat hire companies on the Broads welcome dogs. Explore this unique network of rivers and lakes at your own pace.

Coastal Trips

Singing Paddles, Devon Canoe tours around Kingsbridge and Salcombe welcome dogs for free.

Various ferry services Many coastal ferries welcome dogs, including Wightlink services to the Isle of Wight where dogs travel free.

Castles

Britain's castles offer dramatic settings for dog-friendly days out.

Outstanding Dog-Friendly Castles

Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland Dogs on short leads welcome throughout this stunning coastal castle. Combined with the year-round dog-friendly beach below, this makes an exceptional day out.

Corfe Castle, Dorset National Trust property where dogs are welcome in the ruins and surrounding area. Dramatic setting in the Purbeck Hills.

Dunstanburgh Castle, Northumberland English Heritage ruins accessible via a beautiful coastal walk from Craster. Dogs welcome on leads.

Lowther Castle, Cumbria Dogs welcome in the gardens and grounds of this romantic ruin in the Lake District.

Powderham Castle, Devon Dogs welcome in grounds, though not on the deer safari or in walled gardens. Castle tours, adventure playgrounds and walks available.

Sudeley Castle, Gloucestershire Dogs on leads welcome in the award-winning gardens of this Cotswold castle.

Wildlife and Nature Attractions

Sanctuaries and Reserves

The Donkey Sanctuary, Devon Free attraction where dogs on leads can meet the rescue donkeys. Multiple sites across Devon.

Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Cornwall Dogs welcome to explore this sanctuary and meet the seals.

RSPB Reserves Many RSPB reserves welcome dogs on leads. Check individual site policies as some have restrictions during breeding seasons.

National Parks

All UK national parks welcome dogs, with most attractions within them following suit. Popular dog-friendly destinations include:

• Dartmoor (open access land)
• Exmoor (waterfalls, moorland, coast)
• Peak District (trails, villages, viewpoints)
• Lake District (lakes, fells, attractions)
• Snowdonia (mountains, forests, railways)
• Yorkshire Dales (walks, villages, caves)
• North York Moors (steam railway, coast, moors)
• New Forest (woodland, ponies, villages)

Museums and Indoor Attractions

While most museums don't allow dogs inside, some exceptions exist, and many have dog-friendly grounds and cafes.

Dog-Friendly Museums

Eden Camp, Yorkshire This modern history museum welcomes dogs throughout the outdoor exhibits and in certain indoor areas. A fascinating day out exploring World War II history.

Beamish Open Air Museum, County Durham Dogs on leads welcome throughout this living museum of Northern life. Explore reconstructed streets, farms and buildings from different eras.

Bakewell Old House Museum, Derbyshire Dogs welcome at this local museum in the heart of the Peak District.

Various Farm Parks Many farm parks welcome dogs, though they may need to be kept on leads around livestock. Check individual policies.

Regional Highlights

Southwest England

The Southwest offers exceptional variety for dog-friendly days out.

Cornwall:

• Eden Project outdoor areas (dogs not permitted in biomes)
• Lost Gardens of Heligan woodland walks
• Tintagel Castle ruins and beach
• Lanhydrock estate walks
• Cornish Seal Sanctuary
• National Lobster Hatchery, Padstow
• Prideaux Place, Padstow

Devon:

• Dartmoor open access land and tors
• Watermouth Castle theme park
• Canonteign Falls (England's highest manmade waterfall)
• Becky Falls ancient woodland
• The Donkey Sanctuary
• Dartmouth Steam Railway
• Powderham Castle grounds
• Greenway National Trust gardens

Dorset:

• Sherborne Castle gardens
• Corfe Castle
• Studland Bay beach and heathland
• Lulworth Estate walks

Northern England

Northern England combines dramatic landscapes with rich heritage, offering outstanding dog-friendly attractions.

Yorkshire:

• North Yorkshire Moors Railway (Pickering to Whitby)
• Whitby Abbey ruins
• Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal
• Castle Howard grounds
• Bolton Abbey estate
• Brimham Rocks
• Eden Camp modern history museum
• Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Lake District:

• Windermere Lake Cruises (dogs travel free)
• Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
• Derwentwater launches
• Lowther Castle gardens
• Holker Hall grounds
• Sizergh estate
• Aira Force waterfall

Northumberland:

• Bamburgh Castle
• Dunstanburgh Castle
• Hadrian's Wall English Heritage sites
• Alnwick Castle grounds (seasonal restrictions)
• Cragside estate

Southern England

The South offers historic properties, beautiful gardens and scenic railways within easy reach of London.

Kent:

• White Cliffs of Dover
• Emmetts Garden (three paw rating)
• Scotney Castle grounds
• Ightham Mote estate
• Leeds Castle grounds
• Sissinghurst estate

Sussex:

• Sheffield Park and Garden
• Bluebell Railway
• Bodiam Castle
• Nymans gardens
• Petworth Park

Hampshire and New Forest:

• Exbury Gardens and Railway
• Beaulieu estate
• New Forest attractions
• Mottisfont gardens

Isle of Wight:

• Isle of Wight Steam Railway
• Osborne House grounds
• The Needles Landmark Attraction
• Over 500 miles of footpaths

Midlands

Derbyshire and Peak District:

• Chatsworth Gardens
• Hardwick Hall grounds
• Haddon Hall gardens
• Kedleston Hall parkland

Oxfordshire and Cotswolds:

• Blenheim Palace parkland
• Sudeley Castle gardens
• Hidcote gardens (some areas)
• Woodchester Park

Gloucestershire:

• Westonbirt Arboretum
• Newark Park
• Crickley Hill

Warwickshire:

• Kenilworth Castle
• Charlecote Park
• Baddesley Clinton

Wales

Wales offers dramatic landscapes and welcoming attractions throughout.

• Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways
• Snowdonia National Park attractions
• Pembrokeshire coastal sites
• Brecon Beacons visitor centres
• Portmeirion village grounds
• National Botanic Garden of Wales

Scotland

Scotland's access rights and welcoming attitude make it exceptional for dog owners.

• Loch Lomond boat trips and walks
• Highland estate walks
• Balmacara estate (voted most dog-friendly National Trust Scotland property)
• Isle of Skye walks
• Cairngorms attractions
• Glasgow Botanic Gardens
• Edinburgh's Royal Botanic Garden (some areas)

Dog-Friendly Towns for Attraction Visits

Some towns have earned reputations as particularly dog-friendly bases for exploring attractions.

Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk Crowned the UK's most dog-friendly town in 2024, with over 100 businesses displaying blue paw print logos. Dog-friendly cathedral, abbey gardens and historic streets.

Padstow, Cornwall Buzzing harbour town with National Lobster Hatchery, Prideaux Place and ferry rides across the Camel Estuary, all welcoming dogs.

Bakewell, Derbyshire Gateway to the Peak District with dog-friendly cafes, the Old House Museum and annual dog show. Perfect base for Chatsworth and other attractions.

Whitby, Yorkshire The abbey, harbour, beaches and fish and chip shops all welcome dogs. Combine with the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Lymington, Hampshire Pretty marina town on the edge of the New Forest with boat trips, Hurst Castle access and numerous dog-friendly eateries.

Planning Your Visit

Before You Go

• Check the attraction's website for current dog policy
• Verify any breed or size restrictions
• Note whether leads are required
• Check opening times and any seasonal variations
• Look for designated dog-free areas to avoid

What to Bring

• Lead (even if off-lead areas exist)
• Water and collapsible bowl
• Waste bags
• Treats
• Towel for wet or muddy dogs
• Dog's identification and vaccination records

Being a Good Guest

• Keep dogs on leads unless specifically permitted otherwise
• Clean up after your dog immediately
• Don't let dogs approach other visitors uninvited
• Respect livestock and wildlife
• Keep dogs away from cafe and picnic areas where required
• Leave if your dog is stressed or behaving inappropriately

Seasonal Considerations

Spring: Many attractions open extended hours. Nesting birds may mean lead requirements in some areas. Gardens at their colourful best.

Summer: Peak season brings crowds. Visit early or late to avoid the busiest times. Ensure shade and water for your dog. Some beach sections within coastal attractions may have restrictions.

Autumn: Quieter visiting with beautiful colours. Gardens and forests particularly stunning. Weather can be unpredictable.

Winter: Many attractions have reduced hours or seasonal closures. Indoor areas may not welcome dogs. Check opening times before travelling.

Membership Benefits

Consider annual memberships for regular visits:

English Heritage Membership: Unlimited access to over 400 properties. Dogs welcome at 150+ sites. Free entry for up to six children per adult member.

National Trust Membership: Access to hundreds of properties including gardens, parkland and coastal areas. Most outdoor spaces welcome dogs.

Historic Scotland/Cadw Membership: Similar benefits for Scottish and Welsh heritage sites.

Combined memberships often represent excellent value if you plan multiple visits throughout the year.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

The UK offers an extraordinary range of attractions that genuinely welcome dogs, from ancient castles and atmospheric ruins to beautiful gardens and scenic railways. With a little planning, every day out can include your four-legged companion.

The joy of watching Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly explore somewhere new never diminishes. Whether it's the spray from a waterfall, the mystery of castle ruins or the excitement of a steam train, sharing these experiences makes them infinitely richer.

Choose your attraction, check the policies, pack the essentials and set off together. Some of Britain's finest heritage, most beautiful gardens and most exciting adventures are waiting to welcome you both.

Here's to many more days out discovering Britain together.

Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max, Molly and Luke

Related Guides

• Dog-Friendly Holidays UK: Complete Guide
• Dog-Friendly Walks UK
• Dog-Friendly Beaches UK
• Dog-Friendly Cornwall
• Dog-Friendly Lake District
• Dog-Friendly Yorkshire
• Dog-Friendly Devon
• Dog-Friendly Cotswolds
• Dog-Friendly Pubs with Rooms UK
• Dog-Friendly Cottages UK

Attraction policies can change. Always verify current dog policies before visiting. This guide is based on research and personal experience but should not replace checking directly with attractions for the most up-to-date information.