It’s the middle of summer. You and your family are getting ready for a luxury holiday here in the UK filled with fun, laughter and plenty of fresh air. There’s only one thing missing – your beloved pooch. Well, fret no more, we’re here to make sure man’s best friend never gets left behind again. Read on to find out how to take your dog on a luxury holiday – from the location and accommodation to those all-important walkies.
Choosing the location
First things first, you need to decide where you’ll be whisking off to. Country walks in the Cotswolds? Or days at the beach in Devon? When choosing the location for your holiday, it’s not just scenery and local hotspots that you need to consider. You need to do your research and make sure the destination is pet-friendly too. After all, you don’t want to be leaving your four-legged friend behind when you’re taking a trip to the beach.
Some beaches in the UK don’t allow dogs or have restrictions at certain times of year, so it’s best to avoid those. Don’t worry, there are plenty of dog-friendly beaches across the UK, including the breathtaking Lantic Bay in Cornwall and Broadhaven South Beach in Wales, where you can truly unwind and relax.
Thinking that city retreats are off limits for you and your pooch? Think again. There are a number of UK towns and cities that offer plenty of dog-friendly fun for the whole family. With dog-friendly pubs, inner city parks and even some pet-friendly attractions, you’ll find plenty to do in towns and cities for you and your pup.
That said, the most popular destinations for dog owners in the UK are the vast open landscapes of countryside. From the Peak District and Northumberland to Herefordshire and Hampshire, there are endless locations that both you and your pooch will fall in love with. Think long walks across open moorlands to tire out your terrier or hikes up hills with your Labrador, before stopping off at your local dog-friendly pub for a refreshing drink and a bite to eat. And don’t forget a sausage for Buster!
Finding accommodation
Once you’ve settled on your dream location, you need to find dog-friendly accommodation for your whole family. This is where many will assume they have to go for something simple or bog-standard. Not anymore. There are a selection of dog-friendly houses that offer luxury and beautiful surroundings, while also welcoming your four-legged friends.
From quaint country houses with heated floors for those chilly paws to dog-friendly cottages with a hot tub for those starry nights, you can find the perfect pooch haven for every need.
Choose a holiday home with large open grounds to let your pooch run wild and free – that way, you don’t need to worry about them getting into any bother. Or opt for a beach at the bottom of your garden, so you can enjoy the perfect combination of country and coastal living. Don’t forget to keep the kids entertained with a tennis court, games room or outdoor swimming pool.
Remember to factor in how many guests you’re bringing – including the number of dogs. Whether you’re packing up the whole family for a get together on the English coast or it’s just a few friends and your dogs in the countryside for plenty of walks, there’s something out there for everyone.
Planning your adventures
One of the best things about escaping to a stunning location is getting out there and exploring it on foot. That’s definitely the case when those feet are accompanied by a few paws. But it’s best to plan ahead so you know you’re heading in the right direction.
Before your dog-friendly luxury holiday, have a look online at the best walks in the local area. As well as picking out the best views and landmarks to visit, you’ll be able to get an idea of the duration and length of the walks – not just for your pooch, but for the sake of your own legs too. You can also check that there’s plenty of parking beforehand if you’re driving.
Pack your bags
There are a few extra essentials you need to remember to make your luxury dog-friendly holiday a bit easier. First of all, don’t forget their lead, harness or collar – however you usually get them ready for long walks. While that may sound obvious, so many people forget to pack it because their pooch won’t be wearing it in the car. The last thing you want is to arrive at your destination and realise you’ve forgotten the key component for your walk.
Similarly, if you’ve got a fussy pup, be sure to pack up their favourite cushion, bed or blanket, so you can be sure you’re all getting a good night’s sleep after a day of walking.
Some dog-friendly cottages may be equipped with water and food bowls ready for your thirsty pooch, but it’s worth checking ahead. Or, if your pup is used to their own bowl, perhaps bring it along to avoid any issues. Most importantly, you need to pack their favourite food and plenty of their go-to treats!
If you’re heading to the coast or you’re expecting some traditional English showers, it may be a good idea to take a towel. Of course, our holiday homes come with all the home comforts you need, but to save getting your best fluffy towels covered in muddy pawprints, it’s best to pack a separate towel for your dog and keep it by the front door or in the car ready to give them a quick clean before heading in.
Book your dog-friendly cottage
If you’re looking to combine luxury with dog-friendly on a UK staycation, kate & tom’s can help. We have hand-picked the best dog-friendly cottages with hot tubs, swimming pools and vast landscaped gardens. With one of our luxury holiday houses, you can make sure the kids, adults and your furry companions all have an unforgettable trip.
