Dogs are a part of the family just as much as the children, your aunts and uncles, and your grandparents – it just wouldn’t be the same without them, would it? So why does that have to change when you go on holiday?
You shouldn’t have to leave your four-legged friends behind when you take a trip and the English Lake District agrees – there are loads of things to do, see, eat, and drink, and you’re more than welcome to bring your dog along to most of those!
Follow our guide to dog-friendly Lake District getaways to discover the best activities, hotels, and restaurants to visit with your pooch!
Things To Do
There are no shortage of things to do with your dog in the Lake District and in truth, bringing your dog with you won’t negatively impact your trip at all as they’re welcomed to pretty much all the attractions and activities that you’ll want to visit.
Lake cruises at Windermere are possibly the most relaxing way to escape and explore the waters, simply drifting across the lake so you get a full, in-depth look at the surrounding fells and towns. Your dog is more than welcome on these cruises, some for free and others for a small supplementary fee, provided they’re kept on a lead for the duration of the sailing.
If you’d prefer to stay on land, you can take your dog hiking with you up the many fells of the Lake District (make sure you take a bowl and some water to keep the pup hydrated), or alternatively explore some of the local gardens and castle grounds that the area has to offer. Lowther Castle is one of the most picturesque spots around and they’re perfectly fine with you bringing a dog along with you as you discover the beauty of the castle grounds.
Hope Park is another great walk to check out, as is Allan Bank – a huge favourite for dog-walkers and dog-lovers alike!
Where to Eat
You might be surprised to find out that many of the restaurants in the Lakes are great in terms of dog-friendly policies – many of the eateries in the local area have facilities to dry off your muddy dog and zones inside where you can sit, drink, and eat alongside your four-legged companions. A few pubs even have a few options on the menu for the dog!
The Dog & Gun is a long-time favourite for local dog walkers thanks to their lenient policy and welcoming attitude to dogs. The selection of drinks and the pub grub is excellent too, so it’s a brilliant spot to spend a few hours after a long day of exploring, helping you to relax and unwind in the tranquil setting that surrounds you.
Resting Your Head
Finding somewhere to stay in the Lake District is a doddle – there are loads of dog-friendly hotels that offer luxury options for you and your pup, it’s just a matter of finding the right one for you!
If you want a great location and plenty of eating and drinking options, you’ll love Inn On The Square; it’s the ideal Keswick accommodation for any dog lover thanks to the two dogs-allowed bars and lounge. There’s also an award-winning steakhouse, although unfortunately dogs aren’t permitted in there.
Keswick is one of the most popular tourist towns in the Lakes thanks to its abundance of unique shops, restaurants, and activities as well as the truly breath-taking scenery and proximity to Derwentwater – there’s a little bit of something for every man and his dog in Keswick!
