If there’s one thing Brits love, it’s a furry friend. The latest statistics from the World Animal Foundation reveal that more than 30% of UK households own a dog. That’s a LOT of wagging tails! Dog ownership is incredibly rewarding, but it does come with responsibilities and restrictions, especially when it comes to holidays. 

While boarding kennels or help from friends, neighbours and relatives can be a good option when travelling, dog-friendly staycations offer a unique opportunity to bring Fido along for the fun. The increasing popularity of dog-friendly rentals in the UK has transformed the narrative of pet ownership and unlocked a whole new sense of freedom when it comes to planning close-to-home getaways. 

Of course, pulling off does still call for careful planning. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about planning the perfect staycation with dogs. We’ll touch on important topics like how to choose pet-friendly accommodation, as well as tips and tricks you may not have considered. 

Introducing dog-friendly accommodation 

There’s no two ways about it – dog-friendly staycations represent a paradigm shift for pet owners. Even better, you may be pleasantly surprised when it comes to the standard of accommodation available. The idea that traveling with a dog means compromising on the quality of your accommodation couldn’t be further from the truth. On the contrary, luxury holiday rentals with pet-friendly policies mean you can have it all. 

There’s no need to settle for a rundown cottage with fur-covered furniture and a lingering ‘wet dog’ smell. Look in the right places and you’ll find a huge range of high-end, dog-friendly holiday rentals that don’t compromise on luxury. Whether it’s a sumptuous Georgian manor in the Cotswold countryside or a modern barn conversion in Cumbria, dog-friendly staycation accommodation means both you and your four-legged friends can holiday in style. 

Benefits of dog-friendly staycations

Here’s a few reasons why we love a staycation with dogs. 

Save money on kennels

When it comes to the wellbeing of their pets, most owners find it hard to put a price on peace of mind. This means Brits often find themselves forking out exorbitant amounts for kennel fees or pet-sitting services. Dog-friendly staycations flip the narrative and allow you to redirect pet care expenses back into your holiday budget. Whether it’s upgrading your accommodation or splurging on memorable experiences, you’ll be amazed at how much you can save when you eliminate pet care expenses from your budget. 

Quality time with your dog

Just like spending quality time with your loved ones, a staycation with dogs can be a great opportunity to bond with your canine companion. From scenic walks on local nature trails to cosy evenings by the fireplace, you’ll love the chance to shake up your usual routine.

Enjoy your holiday to the fullest

A dog-friendly staycation means you’ll never have to pine for your furry companion while on holiday. Instead, the entire family, including your dog, gets to participate in the fun. 

Tips for dog-friendly staycations

With so many benefits on offer, why leave your dog behind next time you plan a staycation? Here are some tips to make the planning process as smooth as possible. 

Book early for availability

Dog-friendly accommodation is widely available in the UK but can fill up fast, especially in popular destinations. Booking your dog-friendly staycation well in advance is the best way to secure accommodation that meets your expectations, budgets and date requirements. 

Explore dedicated platforms

Using a dedicated search platform with a pet-friendly filter will make your search a whole lot easier. For example, kate & tom’s features a landing page dedicated exclusively to luxury dog-friendly holiday rentals. 

Pack thoughtfully

When planning a staycation with dogs, packing thoughtfully is key. Remember to bring along essentials for your dog, including their favourite toys, a familiar bed and plenty of treats. Just like young kids, familiar items can help your pet settle into the new environment more comfortably.

Inspiring dog-friendly destinations

When it comes to dog-friendly travel, England and Wales rank as some of the best destinations in the world. Here are some staycation dog-friendly ideas to get your inspired:

The Cotswolds

With almost 800 square miles of postcard-perfect countryside at your doorstep, it’s no wonder the Cotswolds is a firm favourite with dog lovers. From bounding through ancient woodlands to swimming in lakes, strolling around chocolate-box villages and exploring arboretums, pets have just as much fun as their humans. Beyond glorious landscapes, the Cotswolds offers some of the best dog-friendly pubs in the UK. 

The coast

What dog doesn’t love racing along the beach, splashing in the surf and sniffing around piles of seaweed? From Devon and Dorset to Tenby and Pembrokeshire, coastal getaways are guaranteed to delight dogs and humans alike.  

The Lake District

Forget William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. The Lake District inspires dog owners on a whole new level. Whether you’re exploring the shores of Windermere, conquering Catbells or relaxing at a country pub, Lake District is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the UK for a staycation with dogs. More specifically, the town of Keswick was voted the most dog-friendly UK town by the Kennel Club three years in a row, from 2019-2022!

Book your dog-friendly staycation with kate & toms

As you learn more about dog-friendly staycations, it becomes increasingly clear the options are as diverse as the breeds themselves. From grand, heritage-listed estates hidden in the countryside to luxury lakeside houses, there’s a dog-friendly retreat to suit every travel style. 

One thing is for certain – the advent of dog-friendly accommodation isn’t merely a passing trend. It’s here to stay and has transformed the way pet owners approach holidays.

With kate & tom’s, you can embrace a world where a dog isn’t just for Christmas but a cherished part of the family and staple on family holidays. Take a look at our hand-selected dog-friendly homes across the UK for your next luxury getaway.