Dog-Friendly Restaurants and Cafes UK: The Complete Guide

Finding somewhere to eat with your dog used to mean choosing between fast food eaten on a bench or being banished to a pub garden regardless of the weather. Today, the dining landscape has transformed dramatically. From Michelin-starred establishments to cosy countryside tea rooms, an increasing number of restaurants and cafes genuinely welcome four-legged guests.

I've dined across the UK with Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly, discovering that the best meals are often those shared with the whole family, tails included. From cream teas in Cotswold villages to Sunday roasts in Lake District inns, eating out together has become one of the great pleasures of our dog-friendly holidays. This guide covers everywhere from national chains to hidden gems, helping you find the perfect place to dine with your dog.

Whether you're looking for a quick coffee stop during a walk or a special meal to celebrate an occasion, Britain offers more dog-friendly dining options than ever before.

Dog-Friendly Restaurant Chains

Knowing which chains welcome dogs makes spontaneous dining much easier. Here's the current state of play with major UK restaurant groups.

Fully Dog-Friendly Chains

Bill's All Bill's restaurants welcome dogs, and they've gone further than most by creating a dedicated dog menu. Offerings include doggy wine (non-alcoholic), ice cream and nut and superfood bites. The dog-loving staff typically shower visiting pups with attention and treats. With locations across England, Bill's is a reliable choice for brunch, lunch or dinner with your dog.

Pho Every Pho location across the UK welcomes dogs inside and out. Staff provide water bowls and plenty of attention. With 36 branches mainly in major cities plus Edinburgh, Cardiff and smaller towns like Cheltenham, Pho offers a genuine dog-friendly alternative if you're craving noodles.

Mowgli This Indian street food chain actively encourages dogs at all locations. According to their social media, dogs who win over the floor staff might even get a mention on the end-of-night report. Authentic Indian cuisine with a genuine welcome for four-legged diners.

Boston Tea Party All Boston Tea Party locations welcome dogs as part of their commitment to being the UK's most ethical cafe. Expect excellent coffee, all-day brunch options and a warm welcome for your pup.

BrewDog Living up to their name, BrewDog bars and restaurants across the UK welcome dogs with treats, attention and often special events. The craft beer selection is excellent for humans too.

Loungers (including Cosy Club) Loungers operates over 200 restaurants across England and Wales under various names (each Lounge has a unique name like Portivo Lounge or Rosado Lounge). All Lounges are completely dog-friendly. Cosy Club allows dogs in the bar area, though they don't take reservations for this space.

Coffee #1 With around 100 branches, Coffee #1 offers dedicated dog seating areas, water bowls, treats to help yourself to and even beds to borrow. An exceptionally dog-friendly cafe chain.

Partially Dog-Friendly Chains

Costa Coffee Following a successful trial, Costa now welcomes dogs in many stores. Check their store locator for the dog-friendly symbol, as not all branches participate.

Caffe Nero Generally dog-friendly, serving coffee, cakes, cold drinks and paninis. Policies may vary slightly by location.

Pizza Express Dogs welcome in outdoor seating areas where available. Check with the server before settling in.

Starbucks Many Starbucks locations welcome dogs in outdoor seating areas. The famous puppuccino (a small cup of whipped cream) is available on request.

Chains That Don't Allow Dogs

Unfortunately, some popular chains don't permit dogs (except assistance dogs):

• Wagamama (outdoor areas only at some locations)
• Nando's (outdoor areas only at some locations)
• Five Guys
• McDonald's
• Most fast food chains

Always check individual restaurant policies, as some franchised locations may differ from company policy.

Outstanding Independent Restaurants

London

London's dining scene has embraced dogs with enthusiasm, with many acclaimed restaurants welcoming four-legged guests. From neighbourhood bistros to fine dining establishments, the capital offers exceptional choice for dog owners.

St John, Smithfield The iconic restaurant from Fergus Henderson and Trevor Gulliver welcomes dogs in its airy bar area. Enjoy British nose-to-tail cooking with your dog at your feet, and they might even get a bone. The walk-in bar space offers bone marrow and big glasses of wine in genuinely relaxed surroundings.

The Harwood Arms, Fulham London's first and only Michelin-starred pub stays true to its roots by welcoming diners with dogs. Top-drawer dinners and legendary Sunday roasts in genuinely dog-friendly surroundings. Book well ahead, particularly for Sundays.

Sticks'n'Sushi (various locations) With locations in Shoreditch, Battersea, Chelsea, Richmond and Angel, book in advance so suitable tables can be reserved. Water bowls and snacks available for dogs, with seasonal treat boxes offered. Japanese cuisine with Danish hygge aesthetics.

Franco's, Jermyn Street London's oldest Italian restaurant has welcomed dogs on its terrace since 1945. Eighty years of classic Mediterranean dining in the heart of the West End. Contemporary and refined, with a focus on quality ingredients.

Los Mochis, Notting Hill Named after the owner's dog, this Mexican-Japanese fusion restaurant welcomes dogs at the bar and outside. Water provided and a genuinely warm welcome guaranteed. Look for the artworks of the namesake pup throughout the restaurant.

The Wolseley Hospitality Group Bellanger in Islington, Soutine in St John's Wood, Colbert in Chelsea and Zedel in Piccadilly all welcome dogs in specific areas. Each provides homemade branded dog biscuits, a charming touch that shows genuine thought for canine guests.

Humble Grape (various locations) All Humble Grape wine bars and restaurants across London welcome dogs whether you're popping in for a drink or a meal. Chefs prepare daily batches of homemade treats for visiting pups.

Ganymede, Belgravia Dog-owner-friendly establishment providing dog bowls and treats to all four-legged guests. Popular with theatre types and their pooches.

Kudu and Kudu Grill, Peckham Both locations welcome pups of all sizes. Open-fire braai cooking including grilled prawns, peri peri chicken and dry-aged steaks in dog-friendly surroundings.

Brutto, Clerkenwell Dogs very welcome at this Italian restaurant. No restrictions, and they provide bones for canine visitors. The late founder Russell Norman was a dog owner himself.

The Duck and Rice, Soho Curl up with your pup on the ground floor where you'll be welcomed with water, treats and special care. Chinese comfort food and cocktails in trendy Berwick Street surroundings.

Regional Gems

The Cabin, Sheffield Independent cafe in vibrant Kelham Island serving fluffy pancakes and excellent coffee. Perfect for post-walk refuelling with your dog. The neighbourhood vibe makes it a favourite with locals and their pups.

Hinnies, Whitley Bay Seafront dining with Geordie-influenced classics. Dogs welcome inside while you enjoy dishes made from local and seasonal produce with views along the coast. Sister restaurants include award-winning Blackfriars and Dobson and Parnell.

Twenty Twenty, Newcastle Pizza paradise with a monthly Doggy Disco (last Sunday of each month, 12:30 to 2pm). Puppuccinos, free treats, dog beer and photo opportunities hosted by resident Labradoodle Theo. A celebration of dogs and pizza in equal measure.

Stack Newcastle Reopened in August 2024, this popular container village welcomes dogs throughout. Live music, events and vendors selling everything from burgers to Korean food to bao buns. A vibrant, fun destination for dog owners.

1901 Cafe, Jesmond Speciality coffees, delicious smoothies and excellent breakfasts in the heart of Jesmond. Dogs welcome inside and out with free biscuits and water bowls. A favourite neighbourhood spot.

Scott and Babs, Mawgan Porth, Cornwall Quirky restaurant specialising in open fire cooking and spit roasts. Treats and water bowls standard. Legendary pizzas, themed nights including fish feasts and lobster nights, plus live music in dog-friendly surroundings. Open all summer with varying hours through spring and autumn.

Fat Apples Cafe, Porthallow, Cornwall Hidden gem near Porthallow beach serving breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Homemade food using local butchers, bakers and fishermen. Around 30 covers inside plus outdoor seating under canvas awning. The onsite shop stocks quirky gifts, Cornish food, second-hand books and artwork.

The Ferryboat Inn, Helford, Cornwall 300-year-old pub with roaring fireplace and flagstone floors on the North Helford Passage. Farm and sea to table pub classics in stunning waterside surroundings. Cornish white crab on sourdough, beer battered haddock with chunky chips and seasonal specials.

The Cabin, Fowey, Cornwall Waterside cafe with stunning harbour views. Excellent coffee, homemade cakes and light lunches with dogs welcome throughout.

Tarr Farm Inn, Exmoor Historic inn beside the ancient Tarr Steps clapper bridge. Dogs welcome in the bar and garden while you enjoy local produce and real ales after riverside walks.

Dog-Friendly Cafes and Tea Rooms

Britain's tea rooms and cafes offer some of the warmest welcomes for dogs, particularly in tourist areas where walkers are the primary clientele.

Lake District

The Lake District excels at dog-friendly cafes, understanding that walkers and their dogs are the lifeblood of the local economy.

Fellbites, Dalegarth Contemporary eatery at the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway terminus. Passionate foodie cooking using local ingredients in a walker-friendly setting.

The Cafe at Lakeland, Windermere Warm welcome guaranteed where families, four-legged friends and muddy boots are all embraced. Perfect for fuelling up before or after the fells.

Syke Farm Tea Room, Buttermere Stunning location in the beautiful Buttermere Valley on a working family farm. Homemade cakes and ice creams on site.

Laura's Kitchen, Keswick On Keswick's main street with the warmest welcome, efficient service and the best choice of homemade cakes and hot seasonal dishes in town.

Rattle Ghyll Cafe, Ambleside Hearty, home-cooked goodness for locals, returning walkers from the Fairfield Horseshoe or cyclists bagging Lakeland climbs.

The Chalet, Portinscale Lakeland village cafe on the shores of Derwentwater. Walks, boat hire and launches to Keswick all within reach.

Cotswolds

The Cotswolds tradition of tea rooms continues strongly, with many welcoming dogs.

Tisanes Tea Rooms, Broadway 17th-century Cotswold stone building full of olde worlde charm and atmosphere.

The Garden Terrace Cafe, Batsford Arboretum Great place for morning coffee, lunch or afternoon tea at the heart of the Arboretum visitor centre.

New England Coffee House, Stow-on-the-Wold Independent coffee house offering drinks, sweet snacks and savoury options in a wonderfully quirky environment.

Jacks Brunch Kitchen, Cirencester Artisan coffees, brunch bowls, lunch and freshly baked homemade cakes and pastries in the heart of Cirencester.

Felt Cafe, Stroud Independent family-run cafe serving speciality coffee, artisan cakes and delicious brunch and lunches along the River Frome. Little people and dogs welcome.

The Cotswold Outpost, near Burford Cafe, tea room and farm shop all in one, right in the centre of the Cotswolds.

Cornwall

Cornwall's cafe scene caters brilliantly to the surf and walking crowd, meaning dogs are usually welcome.

The Watering Hole, Perranporth The UK's only bar actually on the beach. Super dog-friendly with an iconic location on Perranporth's stunning sands.

C-Bay Cafe, Crantock Seriously good views out to sea and a warm welcome for dogs.

The Lock Gates Tea Room, Bude Proper coffee, fortifying full English breakfasts, homemade cake and cream teas in the centre of Bude.

Rosie's Kitchen, Bude Family-run bustling beachside cafe a stone's throw from Crooklets surfing beach. Positively bursting with atmosphere.

Yorkshire

Yorkshire tea rooms and cafes understand the walking culture and welcome dogs accordingly. From the Dales to the coast, excellent options abound.

Kibble Bakery, Skipton Possibly the most dog-friendly cafe around. Pupcakes, cappawcchinos, cheesy donuts for dogs and excellent coffee and cakes for humans. A pilgrimage destination for dog-owning foodies.

Three Hare Cafe and Bakery, Sedbergh Hidden gem on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales offering delicious breakfast, lunch and pastries. Artisan baking in beautiful surroundings.

The Yew Tree Cafe and Bistro, Scalby Friendly, relaxed service with excellent freshly-prepared food using local and regional produce. Near Scarborough with easy access to coast and moors.

Bettys (various locations) The famous Yorkshire tea room chain welcomes dogs in outdoor areas at most locations. Legendary afternoon teas and coffee in elegant surroundings.

Mannion and Co, York Artisan bakery and cafe in the centre of York welcoming dogs. Excellent coffee, fresh bread and pastries in historic surroundings.

The Parlour at Barden Tower, Wharfedale Historic setting beside atmospheric ruins. Dogs welcome in the cafe while you enjoy homemade food after walking the valley.

Scotland

The Bothy, Various Locations Scottish cafe chain with a genuine Highland welcome for dogs. Hearty Scottish fare and excellent coffee.

Cafe Dog, Edinburgh Does what it says on the tin, with exceptional welcome for four-legged visitors. Coffee, cakes and canine company in the capital.

The Dogs, Edinburgh Restaurant named for, and welcoming to, dogs. Excellent Scottish bistro cooking at reasonable prices.

Oink, Edinburgh Famous hog roast rolls with dogs welcome. Quick, delicious and dog-friendly.

Cairngorm Coffee, Edinburgh Speciality coffee with dogs welcome. Multiple locations across the city.

Artisan Roast, Edinburgh and Glasgow Independent coffee roasters welcoming dogs at their cafes. Excellent coffee in relaxed surroundings.

BrewDog, Glasgow Craft beer, burgers and a warm welcome for dogs at this popular venue.

McCune Smith, Glasgow Coffee shop named for the first African American to hold a medical degree. Dogs welcome alongside excellent coffee and cakes.

Dog Menus and Special Treats

Many establishments now go beyond simply tolerating dogs to actively catering for them. The trend for dog menus has grown significantly, with some restaurants treating canine guests as valued customers in their own right.

Restaurants with Dog Menus

Bill's Full dog menu including doggy wine (non-alcoholic), ice cream and nut and superfood bites. Staff trained to welcome dogs and provide attentive service for four-legged guests.

Various Inn Collection Group Pubs Sir Woofchesters menu featuring Bark Burgers, Bark Bangers, Sunday Roast bones and Bark Brew dog beer. A playful approach to canine dining.

Master Builder's, Buckler's Hard Doggie room service menu including 4oz rump steak, chicken breast and sausages with gravy. Treating dogs to proper meals in this New Forest hotel.

Riding House Cafe, London Dog menu including chicken and rice, beef mince and even doggy ice cream. Thoughtfully prepared options for canine diners.

Duck and Waffle, London Have been known to prepare special meals for dog visitors in their ground floor cafe space.

Common Dog Treats

Many dog-friendly establishments offer complimentary treats:

• Puppuccinos (small cups of whipped cream, popularised by Starbucks)
• Dog biscuits (often homemade or branded with restaurant logos)
• Water bowls (usually standard, but bring your own to be safe)
• Dog ice cream (increasingly common, especially in summer)
• Homemade treats (at independent cafes who bake for dogs and humans)
• Bones (traditional offering at pubs and bistros)

Some cafes now stock complete ranges of dog treats, meals and accessories, effectively doubling as pet shops alongside their human food offerings. This reflects the growing recognition that dog owners represent a significant and loyal customer base.

Finding Dog-Friendly Dining

Useful Resources

DogFriendly.co.uk Comprehensive database of dog-friendly pubs, cafes and restaurants across the UK.

Dotty4Paws Directory of dog-friendly cafes with reviews and details.

BringFido International database including UK listings with user reviews.

Regional tourism websites Most tourist boards maintain dog-friendly dining guides.

Apps

AllTrails While primarily for walks, user reviews often mention nearby dog-friendly cafes.

Google Maps Check reviews for mentions of dogs being welcome.

TripAdvisor Search reviews for "dog-friendly" to find establishments that welcome pets.

Dining Etiquette with Dogs

Before You Visit

• Call ahead to confirm dogs are welcome
• Book a suitable table if possible (ground floor, near door)
• Check any restrictions (size limits, number of dogs, times allowed)
• Exercise your dog before arrival so they're calm

What to Bring

• Lead (keep your dog on a lead throughout)
• Water bowl (in case the venue doesn't provide one)
• Blanket or mat for your dog to lie on
• Treats to reward good behaviour
• Waste bags (accidents happen)

Good Behaviour

• Keep dogs on the floor (not on chairs or banquettes)
• Don't allow begging at your table or others
• Clean up immediately if accidents occur
• Leave if your dog is distressed or disruptive
• Tip well if staff have gone above and beyond for your dog

Being Considerate

• Respect other diners who may not want dog attention
• Keep barking to a minimum
• Don't monopolise staff with dog-related requests
• Thank staff for their welcome

Regional Guides

Best Areas for Dog-Friendly Dining

Lake District Almost universally dog-friendly. Most cafes, tea rooms and pubs welcome dogs as standard, understanding that walkers are their primary customers. Keswick, Ambleside, Windermere and Grasmere all offer excellent choice. Even fine dining options often welcome dogs in bar areas.

Cornwall Beach culture and tourism mean excellent dog-friendly dining throughout. Particularly strong on beachside cafes and traditional tea rooms. Padstow, St Ives, Falmouth, Bude and smaller villages all cater well to dog owners. The surf culture creates a relaxed attitude to sandy paws.

Cotswolds Traditional tea rooms predominate, with most welcoming dogs. Village pubs are almost always dog-friendly. Broadway, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Cirencester and Burford offer numerous options. The tourist economy depends on dog-owning visitors.

Yorkshire Walker-friendly culture extends to excellent dog-friendly cafes, particularly in the Dales and North York Moors. Skipton, Grassington, Hawes, Whitby and numerous villages welcome dogs. Traditional tea rooms blend with contemporary cafes.

Peak District Similar to the Lake District in its welcome. Bakewell in particular offers numerous dog-friendly options including the famous Bakewell pudding shops. Buxton, Matlock, Castleton and Hope all cater well to dog owners exploring the peaks.

Scotland Generally relaxed attitude to dogs in most establishments. Highland and island venues particularly welcoming. Edinburgh offers surprising choice, while rural Scotland almost universally welcomes dogs. The right to roam culture extends to dining.

London Surprisingly good and improving rapidly. Many acclaimed restaurants now welcome dogs in bars or outdoor areas. The pub scene remains reliably dog-friendly, and independent cafes increasingly welcome four-legged visitors.

New Forest The walking and riding culture means most establishments welcome dogs. Lyndhurst, Brockenhurst and numerous forest-edge villages offer excellent options.

Devon Strong on dog-friendly dining from Dartmoor villages to coastal towns. Exeter offers city options while Dartmouth, Salcombe and Totnes provide coastal dining with dogs.

Cities with Strong Dog-Friendly Scenes

• Edinburgh (numerous dog-friendly cafes and restaurants)
• Bristol (excellent independent scene)
• Brighton (beach culture extends to restaurants)
• Manchester (improving rapidly)
• Leeds (strong cafe culture)
• Newcastle (excellent independents)

FAQs

Are dogs allowed in restaurants in the UK?

There's no law preventing dogs in UK restaurants, but it's at each establishment's discretion. Many restaurants, particularly those with outdoor seating, pubs and cafes in tourist areas, welcome dogs. Always check before visiting.

Which restaurant chains allow dogs?

Bill's, Pho, Mowgli, Boston Tea Party, BrewDog and Loungers all welcome dogs at most or all locations. Costa Coffee has expanded dog-friendly stores following a successful trial. Pizza Express and some other chains allow dogs in outdoor areas only.

Can I take my dog to a cafe?

Many cafes welcome dogs, particularly independent cafes in tourist areas, walking destinations and dog-friendly towns. Chains like Coffee #1, Boston Tea Party and many Costa stores also welcome dogs.

Do restaurants provide water for dogs?

Most dog-friendly restaurants provide water bowls, but it's wise to carry your own collapsible bowl just in case. Some establishments also offer treats, beds and even full dog menus.

Should I book ahead if I have a dog?

Yes, booking ahead is recommended. This allows restaurants to allocate a suitable table (ground floor, near exits, away from the kitchen) and ensures they're prepared for your dog's arrival.

Are dogs allowed inside restaurants or just outside?

This varies by establishment. Some welcome dogs throughout, others restrict them to bar areas, and many only permit dogs in outdoor seating. Always check the specific policy when booking.

What if my dog misbehaves in a restaurant?

If your dog becomes distressed, barks excessively or causes disruption, the kindest thing is to leave. Don't force your dog to stay in an environment they're not comfortable with, and respect other diners' experiences.

Can I feed my dog from the table?

While some restaurants provide dog menus, feeding your dog from your own plate or allowing begging is generally frowned upon. It can disturb other diners and may encourage poor behaviour.

Final Thoughts

The transformation in dog-friendly dining across the UK has been remarkable. Where once we might have been limited to a sandwich in the car park, today we can enjoy everything from cream teas to fine dining with our four-legged companions by our side.

The key is planning ahead, choosing appropriate venues and ensuring our dogs are well-behaved ambassadors for all the dog owners who'll follow. Every positive experience reinforces that welcoming dogs is good for business and encourages more establishments to open their doors.

Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly have shared countless meals with us across Britain, from quick coffees during walks to special celebration dinners. These shared experiences, simple as they are, add immeasurably to the joy of travelling together.

Here's to many more meals shared with the whole family, tails included.

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

Related Guides

• Dog-Friendly Holidays UK: Complete Guide
• Dog-Friendly Pubs with Rooms UK
• Dog-Friendly Lake District
• Dog-Friendly Cotswolds
• Dog-Friendly Cornwall
• Dog-Friendly Yorkshire
• Dog-Friendly Peak District
• Dog-Friendly Scotland
• Dog-Friendly Attractions UK
• Dog-Friendly Walks UK

Restaurant policies change frequently. Always verify dog policies before visiting, particularly with chain restaurants where individual locations may differ. This guide is based on research and personal experience but should not replace checking directly with establishments.