We've stayed in over 25 cottages across the Lake District with our six dogs. Charlie the German Shepherd, Buster and Ember our Golden Retrievers, Simba and Max the Labradors, and little Molly the French Bulldog have tested everything from tiny Keswick hideaways to grand Windermere retreats.
Finding a truly dog-friendly cottage isn't easy. Many places say they welcome dogs but charge hefty fees, restrict where your dog can go, or have gardens that aren't secure. We've done the hard work so you don't have to.
In this guide, we share the cottages we actually recommend, what to look for when booking, and tips for a stress-free Lake District holiday with your dog.
What Makes a Cottage Truly Dog-Friendly?
Not all "dog-friendly" cottages are equal. After years of travelling with our pack, here's what we look for:
Enclosed garden – This is top of our list. With six dogs, we need a secure outdoor space where they can relax without us worrying. A proper fence or wall is essential, not just a hedge with gaps.
No dog restrictions – Some cottages only allow one small dog. We need places that welcome multiple dogs and larger breeds like Charlie.
Ground floor sleeping – Charlie has hip dysplasia, so steep stairs are a problem. We always check if there's a ground floor bedroom option.
Hard floors – Let's be honest, dogs bring mud. Cottages with wooden or stone floors are much easier to keep clean than wall-to-wall carpet.
Dog bowls and towels provided – A small touch, but it shows the owner genuinely welcomes dogs rather than just tolerating them.
Near good walks – The Lake District is brilliant for this, but some cottages have walks straight from the door while others need a car journey.
Best Areas for Dog-Friendly Cottages
The Lake District covers a big area. Here's where we recommend staying based on what you're looking for:
Keswick
Keswick is our favourite base. The town itself welcomes dogs in most pubs and cafés, and you've got Derwentwater right on your doorstep. Plenty of walks start straight from town, so you don't always need the car.
Keswick has been voted one of Britain's most dog-friendly towns, and it's easy to see why. Pop into Podgy Paws pet shop for treats (they've got the biggest range of dog products in England), grab a "Puppuccino" from Wild Strawberry café, and let your dog join you aboard the Keswick Launch for a cruise on Derwentwater.
Best for: First-time visitors, walkers, those who like being near shops and restaurants
Cottages to consider: Lakelovers have over 200 dog-friendly properties in the Keswick area alone. We've stayed at Style Cottage through Sykes Cottages, a charming property with a woodburning stove just minutes from the town centre. Tandarra, also via Sykes, is a contemporary three-bedroom home with fell views and easy access to Bassenthwaite.
Windermere and Bowness
The busiest part of the Lakes, but for good reason. Lake Windermere offers swimming spots for water-loving dogs like Buster and Ember, and there are boat trips that allow dogs. Windermere Lake Cruises welcomes well-behaved dogs on board for free.
Best for: Families, those wanting lake swimming, first-time visitors
Cottages to consider: The Birches through Sykes Cottages is a stunning detached property within walking distance of Windermere town centre. For something special, Yonder Lea in Bowness-on-Windermere is a beautifully presented bungalow that accepts dogs.
Things to know: Gets very busy in summer. Some beaches restrict dogs in peak season, so check before you go. Read our full guide to dog-friendly beaches in the UK for seasonal rules.
Ambleside
Right in the heart of the Lakes, Ambleside is perfect for serious walkers. You can tackle the Fairfield Horseshoe, walk to Rydal Water, or head up to Sweden Bridge. Most pubs welcome dogs, including The Golden Rule and The Unicorn Inn.
Best for: Walkers, central location, accessing multiple valleys
Cottages to consider: Sally's Cottages have excellent options around Ambleside, including properties in the pretty Langdale Valley. Canine Cottages also list several Ambleside properties with enclosed gardens.
Coniston
Quieter than Windermere but just as beautiful. Coniston Water is calmer and less crowded, making it ideal for dogs who find busy beaches overwhelming. Simba loves swimming here. The Steam Yacht Gondola, the oldest steamship in the north of England, welcomes well-behaved dogs on board.
Best for: Quieter holiday, water activities, visiting Grizedale Forest
Cottages to consider: Cumbrian Cottage Holidays have a chocolate-box perfect cottage sitting high above Coniston village with traditional charm, enclosed garden, and walks from the door. They welcome two dogs.
Ullswater
Often called the most beautiful lake in England, and we'd agree. Ullswater has fantastic walks including the famous Helvellyn route (though not suitable for all dogs). The Ullswater Steamers allow dogs on board.
Best for: Scenery, steamer trips, serious fell walking
Cottages to consider: The Patterdale Hall Estate near Glenridding offers dog-friendly accommodation with stunning views. Cumbrian Cottage Holidays have a lovely detached cottage in the Ullswater fells with a woodburning stove and garden, an easy drive to Keswick and Ambleside.
Buttermere and the Western Lakes
Much quieter than the central lakes. Buttermere village has one pub, one café, and is surrounded by stunning fells. The lake circuit walk is flat and perfect for dogs of all ages, including Charlie with his dodgy hips.
Best for: Peace and quiet, escaping crowds, easier walks
Cottages to consider: Properties here are fewer but special. The National Trust have dog-friendly cottages dotted throughout the Lake District, including some in more remote locations perfect for getting away from it all.
Our Top Cottage Recommendations
After 25+ stays, these are the types of cottages we keep going back to and the booking sites we trust.
Best Booking Sites for Dog-Friendly Cottages
Canine Cottages – Our go-to for finding places that genuinely welcome dogs. They're specialists, so every property is properly dog-friendly. Great for finding cottages that accept multiple dogs.
Sally's Cottages – Part of the same group as Canine Cottages. Excellent selection with good filters for secure gardens and multiple dogs. They offer everything from luxury pads to secluded remote cottages.
Lakelovers – Over 1,000 dog-friendly cottages in the Lake District. Good range from budget to luxury, including lodges and hot tub properties.
Sykes Holiday Cottages – Large selection with detailed listings. Check individual properties carefully as policies vary. They've won Best UK Holiday Cottage Booking Company at the British Travel Awards.
Cumbrian Cottage Holidays – Family-run with a personal touch. All their listed cottages accept at least one well-behaved dog, and many take two or more.
National Trust Holidays – Beautiful historic properties in stunning locations. Perfect for a special trip. Their Lake District cottages include some truly unique stays.
Browse All Lake District Booking Sites →
Best for Large Dogs
When you've got a German Shepherd and two Labradors, space matters. We look for:
- Living areas big enough for multiple dog beds
- Wide doorways (Charlie is not a small dog)
- Gardens where large dogs can run
- No weight restrictions in the booking terms
Big House Experience offer luxury dog-friendly cottages for large groups. Properties like Hethersdale have rugged Lake District surroundings with luxury accommodation, while Beckland Grange features a billiards room with cocktail bar. Fallbarrow Hall has two hot tubs for unwinding after a day's walking.
Best for Enclosed Gardens
Our non-negotiable requirement. Here's what "enclosed" should actually mean:
Proper enclosure:
- Solid fence at least 5 feet high
- No gaps at the bottom
- Secure gate that latches properly
- Checked for escape routes (some dogs are clever)
Not actually enclosed:
- Low stone wall a Labrador could jump
- Hedge with gaps
- "Enclosed except for one side"
- Gate that doesn't close properly
Always message the owner before booking to confirm the garden setup. Ask for photos if they're not on the listing. Sally's Cottages specifically highlight properties with secure gardens, which saves time searching.
Best for Walks from the Door
Nothing beats rolling out of bed and starting a walk straight from your cottage. These locations offer exactly that:
Keswick area – Many cottages have footpaths nearby leading to Catbells, Walla Crag, or along Derwentwater.
Grasmere – Walk to Rydal Water, up to Helm Crag, or along the coffin route to Ambleside. Cottages in Elterwater in the Langdale Valley are perfectly placed for walks.
Buttermere – The lake circuit starts from the village car park, just minutes from most cottages.
For more walking inspiration, see our guide to dog-friendly walks in the Lake District.
Best for Winter Stays
Winter in the Lakes is magical. Fewer tourists, frosty fells, and cosy pub fires. But your cottage needs:
Wood burner or open fire – Essential for warming up wet dogs after a rainy walk. We dry all six dogs in front of the fire after a muddy day out. Many Sykes and Lakelovers properties feature woodburning stoves.
Good heating – Old stone cottages can be cold. Check reviews mentioning winter stays.
Drying space – A utility room or boot room for wet gear and muddy paws.
Accessible location – Some remote cottages become tricky to reach in snow. Consider staying closer to main roads in winter.
Best Budget Options
Dog-friendly doesn't have to mean expensive. We've found great value by:
Booking off-peak – January, February, and November offer the best rates. We actually prefer these quieter months.
Staying Sunday to Thursday – Weekend rates are much higher.
Choosing smaller cottages – A cosy one-bedroom cottage for two people plus dogs often costs half the price of a larger property.
Looking outside the honeypot villages – Cottages in Cockermouth, Penrith, or the Eden Valley are often cheaper than Windermere or Ambleside but still within easy reach of the Lakes. Cumbrian Cottage Holidays have a stylish cottage for two called Hazelrigg in the Eden Valley with woodburning stove, garden, and space for two dogs.
What to Expect: Costs and Policies
Dog Fees
Most cottages charge extra for dogs. Here's what's typical:
- £20-30 per dog per stay – Most common
- £30-50 per dog per stay – Higher-end properties
- Free – Rare but some owners don't charge
- Per dog per night – Watch out for this, it adds up quickly
With six dogs, fees matter to us. We've paid over £150 in dog charges for a week's stay at some places. Always factor this into your budget.
Typical Rules
Number of dogs allowed – Usually 1-2, sometimes 3. Finding places that accept 6 dogs like ours is tricky but possible. We sometimes book two cottages side by side.
Where dogs can go – Most cottages ask that dogs stay off furniture and out of bedrooms. We bring our own throws to protect sofas.
Dogs not left alone – Very common rule. If you want to visit a restaurant that doesn't allow dogs, you'll need to plan around this.
Clean up after your dog – Goes without saying, but always leave the garden clean.
Cleaning and Damage
Most places ask you to:
- Vacuum up dog hair before leaving
- Clean muddy paw prints
- Report any damage immediately
We travel with a handheld vacuum and plenty of old towels. It only takes 20 minutes to leave a cottage as we found it.
Questions to Ask Before Booking
Save yourself problems by asking these upfront:
- Is the garden fully enclosed? Can you send photos?
- How many dogs do you accept?
- Are there any size or breed restrictions?
- What are the dog fees?
- Are dogs allowed in all rooms?
- Is there anywhere to wash muddy dogs?
- What walks are nearby?
Red Flags to Watch For
"Dogs by arrangement" – Often means they'd rather you didn't bring one.
Very low dog fees – Sometimes means they accept dogs reluctantly and have lots of restrictions.
No mention of dogs in photos or description – Genuine dog-friendly places usually show dogs or mention them.
Cream carpets and white sofas – You'll spend your holiday stressed about muddy paws.
Packing List for Your Cottage Stay
After years of trial and error, here's what we bring for six dogs:
Essentials:
- Dog beds (we bring their own beds from home for familiar smell)
- Food and treats
- Bowls (though many cottages provide these)
- Leads and harnesses
- Poo bags (never run out)
- Towels for drying wet dogs
- Dog first aid kit
Really useful:
- Handheld vacuum for dog hair
- Throws to protect furniture
- Baby gate (useful for keeping dogs in one area)
- Long line leads for beach walks
- Cooling mat for Molly (French Bulldogs overheat easily)
- Raised food bowl for Charlie (helps with digestion)
Nice to have:
- Portable dog wash/shower
- LED collars for dark winter walks
- Dog life jackets for lake swimming
For our complete packing guide, visit dog travel essentials.
Making the Most of Your Lake District Trip
Dog-Friendly Walks
The Lake District is a walker's paradise. With over 200 fells and endless valleys, you'll never run out of options.
Easy walks (suitable for all dogs):
- Buttermere lake circuit
- Tarn Hows (near Coniston, wide paths and gentle gradients)
- Friar's Crag, Derwentwater
- Rydal Water circuit
Moderate walks:
- Catbells
- Loughrigg Fell
- Helm Crag
- Walla Crag
Challenging walks (fit dogs only):
- Helvellyn via Striding Edge (not suitable for all dogs)
- Fairfield Horseshoe
- Scafell Pike
Whinlatter Forest, the UK's only true mountain forest, is brilliant for dogs. Plenty of trails and the visitor centre welcomes four-legged friends.
For detailed routes, see our dog-friendly walks Lake District guide.
Dog-Friendly Pubs
After a good walk, you need a good pub. These are our favourites:
Keswick:
- The Dog and Gun – One of the oldest pubs in Keswick, dogs welcome in all areas, famous for their Hungarian goulash served for over 60 years. Doggy treats at the bar.
- The Kings Arms Hotel – Family-owned hotel with great food and real ales, dogs welcome throughout.
- The Wainwright – Traditional pub named after the famous fell walker, dog-friendly with water bowls provided.
Ambleside:
- The Golden Rule – Hidden gem, popular with walkers. Dogs welcome but must be well-behaved (it's a quiet pint kind of place). Dog biscuits from the bar.
- The Unicorn Inn – Traditional charm with dog-friendly policy and water bowls.
- The Drunken Duck Inn – Perched above Ambleside with stunning views, serves their own brewed ales. Dogs welcome in bar and on terrace.
- The Wateredge Inn – Lakeside pub with rooms, dogs welcome in designated areas with views of Lake Windermere.
Grasmere:
- Tweedies Bar – Local favourite with spacious beer garden, dogs welcome throughout, great selection of local ales.
- The Good Sport – Newest pub in Grasmere, dogs welcome everywhere, food served all day from 8.30am.
- 1769 – Traditional style pub where dogs are warmly welcomed with no restrictions.
Coniston:
- The Black Bull – Historic pub welcoming dogs
- The Sun Hotel – Dogs welcome
- The Ship Inn – Dogs welcome in the bar, close to Coniston Old Man walking trails
Buttermere:
- The Bridge Hotel – Dogs welcome
- The Fish Inn – Cosy spot after the lake circuit walk
Special mentions:
- The Queen's Head, Troutbeck – Has its own dog menu with dishes like minced lamb with potato and gravy, and chicken breast with mashed potato and carrots.
- Sticklebarn, Langdale – National Trust owned, welcomes muddy boots and dogs, fantastic location.
- The Britannia, Elterwater – 400-year-old inn welcoming dogs and children.
For more recommendations, read our dog-friendly pubs Lake District guide.
Swimming Spots
Buster and Ember live for swimming. The Lake District has plenty of safe spots:
Derwentwater – Several easy access points around the lake Coniston Water – Quieter than Windermere, good shoreline access Rydal Water – Small but beautiful, usually quiet River Derwent – Shallow sections near Keswick perfect for paddling
Always supervise dogs in water and watch for currents, especially after rain.
When to Visit
Peak Season (July-August, School Holidays)
Pros: Best weather (usually), longest days Cons: Very busy, highest prices, some beaches restrict dogs, harder to book cottages
Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October)
Pros: Good weather, fewer crowds, easier bookings, autumn colours in October Cons: Can still be busy on bank holiday weekends
Off-Peak (November-April)
Pros: Cheapest prices, empty fells, cosy cottage vibes, winter scenery Cons: Shorter days, colder, some facilities closed, weather can be harsh
Our preference: We love November and February. The Lakes feel like ours, the dogs can run freely on empty paths, and there's something special about warming up by a fire after a cold walk.
Dog-Friendly Hotels as an Alternative
If cottages are fully booked, several Lake District hotels genuinely welcome dogs:
Armathwaite Hall, Keswick – Luxury hotel with dedicated doggy lounges and even a doggy hairdryer. Set in 400 acres of deer park and woodland.
The Skiddaw Hotel, Keswick – Central location, dogs welcome, easy access to Derwentwater and the fells.
Macdonald Old England Hotel, Windermere – Lakeside location with outdoor space for dogs. Super deluxe rooms are pet-friendly.
Windermere Manor Hotel – Proudly dog-friendly with dedicated dog exercise areas, water bowls, and dog beds available.
The Newby Bridge Hotel – Dogs welcome in all areas except the restaurant and leisure club. £15 per night dog fee.
Lake District Castle Inn Hotel – Near Keswick, offers dog-friendly breaks with easy access to walks.
Merewood Country House Hotel – Overlooks Windermere with stunning fell views, welcomes dogs.
For more options, see our guide to dog-friendly hotels in the UK.
Tips from Our Experience
After travelling to the Lake District with six dogs more times than we can count, here's what we've learned:
Book early for peak dates – The best dog-friendly cottages get snapped up months in advance for summer and Christmas.
Always have a backup walk planned – Lake District weather changes fast. If your planned fell walk gets weathered off, know some lower-level alternatives.
Bring more towels than you think – Six wet dogs need a lot of towels. We bring at least two per dog.
Check stream crossings for your route – After heavy rain, streams become rivers. Know your escape routes.
Keep Molly cool – Our French Bulldog struggles in heat. We plan her walks for early morning or evening in summer and always carry water.
Give Charlie joint supplements – With his hip dysplasia, we start his supplements a week before a walking holiday.
Let the dogs settle in – We always give them time to sniff around a new cottage before heading out. It helps them relax.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dogs can stay in Lake District cottages?
+Are dogs allowed on Lake District beaches?
+What's the best Lake District area for dogs?
+Do I need to book dog-friendly cottages in advance?
+Can I leave my dog alone in a Lake District cottage?
+What if my dog damages something in the cottage?
+Final Thoughts
The Lake District is one of the best places in Britain for a holiday with your dog. Stunning walks, dog-friendly pubs, and cottages that genuinely welcome four-legged guests make it perfect for dog owners.
We keep coming back with Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max, and Molly. Every trip, we discover new walks, find new favourite pubs, and make memories with our pack.
The key is finding the right cottage – one with a secure garden, space for your dog, and owners who actually want dogs there, not just tolerate them.
We hope this guide helps you find your perfect Lake District cottage. If you've got questions or want specific recommendations, get in touch through our contact page. We love chatting with fellow dog owners.
Happy travels!
Luke, Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max & Molly
Ready to Book?
Browse all our trusted booking partners for Lake District cottages, hotels, and lodges on our Book Your Stay page.
Related Guides
- Dog-Friendly Cottages UK – Complete Guide
- Dog-Friendly Lake District – Everything You Need to Know
- Dog-Friendly Walks Lake District
- Dog-Friendly Pubs Lake District
- Dog-Friendly Hotels UK
- Dog-Friendly Beaches UK
- Travelling with Dogs UK – Complete Guide
- Dog Travel Essentials – What to Pack
This guide is based on our personal experiences staying in Lake District cottages with our six dogs. We only recommend places we'd happily stay again.
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