Dog-Friendly Hotels UK: The Complete Guide

Finding a welcoming hotel when you're travelling with dogs used to feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Trust me, I've been there, frantically calling hotels at 9pm trying to find somewhere that would accept my pack. But times have changed, and the UK's hotel industry has finally caught up with what dog owners have known all along: our four-legged friends are family members who deserve to come on holiday too.

After years of travelling across Britain with Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly, I've learned which hotel chains genuinely welcome dogs and which ones simply tolerate them. There's a world of difference between the two. When you're planning a dog-friendly holiday in the UK, knowing where you'll be greeted with tail wags rather than raised eyebrows makes all the difference.

This guide covers everything from budget hotel chains to luxury boutique stays, with honest insights into policies, prices and what to expect when you arrive with your furry companion.

Budget-Friendly Hotel Chains That Welcome Dogs

Travelodge

If you need reliable, affordable dog-friendly accommodation across the UK, Travelodge is hard to beat. Every single one of their 580+ hotels welcomes dogs, which means you never have to worry about availability when booking.

Pet Policy:

• Fee: £20 per pet, per booking (not per night)
• Maximum: 2 dogs per room
• Dogs must not be left unattended
• Assistance dogs stay free

The flat fee of £20 regardless of your stay length makes Travelodge particularly good value for longer trips. I've stayed at Travelodges across the country during road trips, and the consistency is reassuring. The rooms are clean, the staff are generally welcoming to dogs, and the price is right.

Best for: Budget-conscious travellers, road trip stopovers, last-minute bookings

Best Western

Best Western operates around 100 dog-friendly hotels across the UK, offering slightly more variety in terms of property styles than the typical budget chains. Since each hotel is independently owned, you'll find everything from modern city centre hotels to characterful country properties.

Pet Policy:

• Fee: Typically £10 to £15 per dog per night
• Maximum: 2 dogs per room (some hotels have size restrictions)
• Policies vary by individual hotel
• Guide dogs welcome at all 250+ UK properties

The independent nature of Best Western hotels means you'll want to confirm specific policies before booking. Some hotels welcome dogs in restaurants, whilst others restrict them to rooms and outdoor areas. That said, I've found the staff at Best Western properties tend to be genuine dog lovers who go out of their way to recommend local walks and dog-friendly beaches.

Best for: Those wanting more character than a standard budget chain, regional breaks

Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express

The IHG family of hotels, including Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express, offers over 100 dog-friendly properties across the UK. These are particularly useful for business travellers who want to bring their dog along.

Pet Policy:

• Fee: Usually £20 to £30 per night
• Maximum: 2 pets per room
• Policies vary significantly between properties
• Always confirm before booking

One important note: not all Holiday Inn properties accept dogs, so you'll need to check each hotel's specific policy. The fees can also vary quite a bit, with some properties charging per stay and others per night. Holiday Inn Southend, for example, charges £30 per night for up to two dogs.

Best for: Business travel, airport stopovers, family holidays

Britannia Hotels

Britannia Hotels operate 48 dog-friendly properties throughout the UK, making them one of the more accessible budget options for pet owners. These tend to be slightly older, more traditional hotels with plenty of character.

Pet Policy:

• Fee: Varies by property
• Dogs welcome in most areas
• Policies differ between hotels

The hotels themselves range from grand Victorian buildings to more modest country properties. Quality can be variable, so I'd recommend checking recent reviews before booking.

Best for: Those seeking traditional British hotels on a budget

Boutique Hotel Chains

Malmaison

If you want something more stylish than a budget chain without venturing into full luxury territory, Malmaison hotels offer an excellent middle ground. With properties in cities including Edinburgh, Manchester, Newcastle, Belfast, York and Oxford, they're perfect for urban breaks with your dog.

Pet Policy:

• Fee: £20 to £25 per night
• Dogs of any size welcome
• Maximum: 2 small to medium dogs per room
• Dogs welcome in designated areas
• Refundable deposit may apply

The contemporary, design-led rooms at Malmaison properties feel considerably more upmarket than budget chains. Dogs aren't permitted in the restaurants, but staff will often arrange for you to dine with your dog in alternative areas. The central city locations mean you're usually close to parks for morning walks.

Best for: City breaks, couples wanting a stylish stay, design-conscious travellers

Hotel du Vin

This boutique chain operates 19 dog-friendly properties across the UK in beautifully restored historic buildings. Locations include Newcastle upon Tyne, Harrogate, Poole, Dorset and Cambridge.

Pet Policy:

• Fee: £10 per night
• Dogs must be over one year old
• Dogs welcome in the bar areas
• Blanket and bowl provided

The £10 nightly fee is excellent value for the quality of accommodation. Hotel du Vin properties have real character, with rooms set in converted Georgian townhouses, Victorian mansions and other historic buildings. Dogs can join you in the bar for a drink, which makes evening socialising much easier.

Best for: Weekend breaks, couples, those who appreciate historic properties

Luxury Dog-Friendly Hotels

For special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself and your dog, the UK has some exceptional luxury options.

Red Carnation Hotels

Red Carnation operates six dog-friendly luxury hotels in central London, plus two in the Dorset countryside. These properties treat canine guests like VIPs, with their own mat, bedding, food bowl and special menu.

London Properties:

• The Egerton House Hotel
• The Montague on the Gardens
• The Rubens at the Palace
• The Milestone Hotel
• The Chesterfield Mayfair
• Hotel 41

Pet Policy:

• Dogs receive welcome packs with treats and toys
• Special dog menus available
• Dog beds and bowls provided
• Typically no size restrictions

These are genuinely luxurious hotels in prime London locations, and the dog-friendly amenities match the overall quality. If you're planning a special trip to the capital with your dog, Red Carnation properties set the standard.

Best for: Luxury London breaks, special celebrations, those wanting VIP treatment for their dogs

Claridge's

For the ultimate in dog-friendly luxury, Claridge's in Mayfair welcomes dogs in its glamorous surroundings. This is one of London's most prestigious hotels, and dogs receive the same impeccable service as their human companions. Green Park and Hyde Park are both within easy walking distance.

Other Luxury Options

Several other luxury properties across the UK have earned reputations for exceptional dog-friendly hospitality:

Chewton Glen, Hampshire: Dogs stay in the spectacular treehouse suites, with access to 130 acres of grounds and the New Forest beyond. The £35 per day dog fee includes treats, bed and bowl.

Lucknam Park, Wiltshire: This five-star Palladian mansion sits within 500 acres of listed parkland. Dog-friendly rooms come with beds, blankets, bowls and a welcome basket with toys and treats.

Gidleigh Park, Devon: Set on Dartmoor, this country house hotel has two dog-friendly rooms plus a cottage. The £20 per night fee includes a basket, biscuits and balls. The 107 acres provide endless exploration opportunities.

The Nare, Cornwall: This family-run hotel on the Cornish coast includes a nightly doggy menu in the room rate. It's a wonderfully old-fashioned place where dogs are treated as honoured guests, perfect for exploring dog-friendly Cornwall.

Seaham Hall, County Durham: This five-star coastal hotel has carefully appointed dog-friendly rooms and suites, with stunning walks along the Durham Heritage Coastal Path. The Garden Suites feature private gardens and outdoor hot tubs, and dogs receive comprehensive welcome packs.

Whatley Manor, Cotswolds: This luxury hotel provides dog baskets, toys, bowls and treats, along with maps of the best walks through the 12 acres of grounds. Their Petflix and Chill package includes dog-friendly ice cream and Pawsecco.

Bailiffscourt Hotel, Sussex: Set in 30 acres with proximity to Climping Beach, this property offers the Sandy Paws package including welcome kits, treats and drying coats for post-walk comfort.

Isle of Eriska, Scotland: This magical 330-acre private island hotel welcomes dogs to explore woods, beaches and parkland. Choose from rooms in the main house, spa suites or self-catering cottages.

Homewood Hotel, Somerset: With 31 dog-friendly rooms, this hotel provides a Woof Box welcome package. Dogs are welcome in the bar and lounges, where they have their own canine menu. Grooming services are also available.

Countryside and Coastal Hotel Groups

The Inn Collection Group

This expanding group operates over 30 dog-friendly inns across some of the UK's most beautiful regions, including the Lake District, Northumberland, North Wales, Yorkshire and County Durham. Their properties are positioned in prime locations for outdoor enthusiasts.

Notable Properties:

• The Swan, Grasmere: In the heart of the Lake District National Park
• The Waterhead Inn: On Lake Windermere's doorstep
• The Coniston Inn: Self-catering cottages with private gardens
• The Midland, Morecambe: Art deco landmark overlooking Morecambe Bay
• Offshore, St Annes on Sea: Beachfront location near Blackpool

Pet Policy:

• Fee: £20 per night
• Dogs welcome in designated rooms
• Dogs allowed in sections of restaurants and bars
• Gourmet dog menu available through Sir Woofchesters partnership
• Multiple dogs welcome

The locations are perfectly positioned for outdoor adventures. Properties like The Swan in Grasmere, The Waterhead Inn on Lake Windermere and The Midland in Morecambe put you right in the heart of walking country. The partnership with Sir Woofchesters means your dog can enjoy their own meal whilst you dine, with options including Bark Burgers (beef patties with cheese), Bark Bangers (mini chicken sausages), Sunday Roast bones, full roast dinners and Fish and Chips. There's even Bark Brew dog beer.

Best for: Walking holidays, countryside breaks, the Lake District, coastal escapes

Innkeeper's Collection

Part of the Mitchells & Butlers group, Innkeeper's Collection has made all of its Vintage Inns hotels dog-friendly, totalling 22 properties. They also include The White Lion in Ambleside.

Pet Policy:

• Fee: £15 per night
• Small to medium dogs welcome
• Dog blanket, water bowl and treats provided

These pub-style hotels offer good value accommodation in attractive locations, often in villages or countryside settings. The attached pubs mean you can enjoy a meal without leaving your dog in the room.

Best for: Pub-with-rooms experience, countryside locations, value for money

Regional Recommendations

Finding the right hotel depends on where you're heading. Here are some top picks for popular dog-friendly destinations:

Lake District

The Inn Collection Group dominates here with properties in Ambleside, Grasmere, Windermere and Coniston. For luxury, Linthwaite House and Gilpin Hotel both welcome dogs. Budget travellers will find Travelodges in Kendal and Penrith.

Cornwall

The Nare offers coastal luxury, whilst Fowey Hall Hotel is perfect for families. Mullion Cove Hotel has its own Doggy Lounge. Budget options include Travelodge Newquay and Holiday Inn Express Bodmin.

Yorkshire

Malmaison York provides boutique city centre accommodation. The Inn Collection Group has several Yorkshire properties. For the Dales and Moors, look at independent country house hotels and traditional inns.

Scotland

Isle of Eriska offers island luxury, whilst Malmaison Edinburgh suits city breaks. Kylesku Hotel in the remote northwest provides spectacular Highland scenery with excellent dog walks from the door.

Wales

The Inn Collection Group operates properties in North Wales near Snowdonia. Grove of Narberth in Pembrokeshire offers luxury Welsh hospitality with dedicated dog accommodations.

London

Red Carnation Hotels provide the most dog-friendly luxury experience. The Athenaeum near Green Park offers sophisticated city stays with a VIPup Package. Virgin Hotels London Shoreditch welcomes dogs free of charge.

Where to Book Dog-Friendly Hotels

PetsPyjamas

This specialist booking platform curates over 18,000 dog-friendly properties across the UK. The standout benefit is that dogs stay free at all properties booked through the site, potentially saving you £25 or more per night.

Additional Benefits:

• 24/7 vet helpline during your stay
• Priority Paws VIP loyalty programme
• Pet Concierge team for personalised recommendations
• Exclusive packages not available elsewhere
• Last-minute deals and special offers

I've used PetsPyjamas for booking several trips and found their customer service genuinely helpful. The team clearly understand what dog owners need from accommodation. Their curated approach means every property has been verified as truly dog-welcoming, not just dog-tolerant.

BringFido

Originally an American platform, BringFido has comprehensive listings for UK dog-friendly hotels. Their Canine Concierge service contacts hotels directly to confirm pet-friendly room assignments, which removes any uncertainty about your booking.

Key Features:

• Pet Friendly Guarantee on all bookings
• No booking fees
• Direct confirmation of pet policies
• Reviews from dog owners
• Detailed policy information for each property

Dog Friendly Retreats

Specialising in self-catering accommodation, Dog Friendly Retreats offers thousands of cottages across the UK where dogs are genuinely welcomed. Every property has been vetted to ensure pets aren't just allowed but celebrated.

Coolstays

For something more unique, Coolstays features over 1,500 dog-friendly properties including treehouses, shepherd's huts, yurts and converted barns. You book directly with property owners with no commission fees.

Booking.com and Hotels.com

Both mainstream booking platforms allow you to filter for pet-friendly properties. The advantage is the breadth of choice; the disadvantage is that dog-friendly policies aren't always accurately listed, so you may need to confirm directly with hotels.

What to Expect at Dog-Friendly Hotels

Standard Amenities

Most dog-friendly hotels provide:

• Water and food bowls
• Dog bed or blanket
• Information on local walks
• Waste bags

Premium Amenities (Luxury Hotels)

Higher-end properties often include:

• Welcome treats or hampers
• Dog menus for in-room dining
• Dog beds from quality brands
• Turndown treats
• Maps of the best local walks
• Dog-sitting or walking services

Typical Rules

Almost all dog-friendly hotels have similar expectations:

• Dogs should not be left unattended in rooms
• Dogs must be kept on leads in public areas
• Dogs are usually not permitted in restaurants (bars are often fine)
• Owners are responsible for any damage
• Dogs should be well-behaved and not disturb other guests

Practical Tips for Hotel Stays with Dogs

Before You Book

Always confirm the dog policy directly with the hotel, even if you've found information online. Policies change, and individual properties within chains can have different rules. Questions to ask include:

• Is there a fee, and is it per night or per stay?
• Are there size or breed restrictions?
• Where can dogs go within the hotel?
• Can dogs be left in rooms if needed?
• Are there designated relief areas?
• What time can you check in with a dog?

Choosing the Right Room

When booking, consider requesting:

• Ground floor rooms for easier toilet breaks
• Rooms away from lifts and busy corridors to minimise disturbances
• Rooms with direct garden access if available
• Rooms furthest from the restaurant if your dog might bark at food smells

Packing Essentials

Bring everything your dog needs to feel comfortable:

• Their usual bed or blanket (familiar smells help them settle)
• Food and treats for the duration plus extra
• Bowls if not provided by the hotel
• Lead and collar with up-to-date ID tag
• Waste bags (more than you think you'll need)
• Old towels for muddy paws
• Any medications with clear instructions
• Favourite toys for comfort
• Dog first aid kit for emergencies
• Portable water bottle for walks
• Lint roller for removing fur before checkout

On Arrival

Let reception know you've arrived with a dog. Most hotels will have you sign a pet policy agreement. Ask about designated relief areas and any local walks staff recommend. If you're staying in a budget hotel near a main road, check where you can safely walk your dog.

Request a late checkout if available, as this gives you more time for a morning walk before leaving. Ask reception about:

• Nearest off-lead walking areas
• Local vets and emergency vet contacts
• Dog-friendly cafes and restaurants nearby
• Any local hazards to be aware of

During Your Stay

Keep your dog's routine as normal as possible. If they usually eat at 6pm, stick to that schedule. Take them out for a good walk before settling in for the evening. If you need to leave your dog briefly, the familiar smells of their own bedding will help them feel secure.

Consider timing your activities around your dog's needs. Early morning walks before breakfast work well at most hotels when corridors are quieter. If you're eating in the hotel restaurant, try to book an early or late sitting so you're not leaving your dog alone during busy periods.

Being a Considerate Guest

The more positive experiences hotels have with dogs, the more they'll continue welcoming them. Follow these guidelines:

• Clean up any accidents immediately and inform housekeeping
• Don't let your dog on beds or furniture unless the hotel explicitly allows it
• If your dog barks when left alone, consider whether hotel stays are right for them
• Vacuum loose fur before checkout if you've brought a heavy shedder
• Keep your dog on lead in all public areas
• Don't wash your dog in the hotel bath or shower
• Tip housekeeping if they've been particularly accommodating

FAQs

Final Thoughts

The UK hotel landscape for dog owners has improved dramatically over recent years. From budget chains like Travelodge offering straightforward, affordable accommodation to luxury properties providing VIP treatment for canine guests, there's now something for every budget and occasion.

My advice is to book with specialist platforms like PetsPyjamas where possible, as the free dog stays and additional support make a real difference. For budget trips, Travelodge's simple flat fee and universal dog-friendly policy can't be beaten. And for special occasions, treat yourself to somewhere like The Inn Collection Group or a luxury country house hotel where dogs are celebrated rather than merely tolerated.

The key is always to confirm policies directly before booking and to be a considerate guest when you arrive. The more positive experiences hotels have with dogs, the more properties will welcome them in future.

Happy travels from our pack to yours. May you find the perfect room with space for wagging tails.

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

Related Guides

• Dog-Friendly Holidays UK: Complete Guide
• Dog-Friendly Cottages UK
• Dog-Friendly Lake District
• Dog-Friendly Cornwall
• Dog-Friendly Yorkshire
• Dog-Friendly Scotland
• Dog-Friendly Wales
• Dog-Friendly Norfolk
• Dog-Friendly Devon
• Dog-Friendly Peak District
• Dog-Friendly Beaches UK

Information is based on research and personal experience. Policies and prices can change, so always confirm directly with hotels before booking. This guide contains affiliate links to booking platforms we genuinely recommend.