Are you looking for a cosy spot where both you and your four-legged friend can enjoy quality time together? Finding dog-friendly pubs near you in the UK can transform an ordinary outing into a delightful experience for everyone involved.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you discover some of Britain’s best dog-friendly establishments, share tips on finding them, and provide essential etiquette advice for a smooth visit. From Newcastle to London, and everywhere in between, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate resource for dog owners seeking a welcoming pub atmosphere.
Why Dog-Friendly Pubs Are Booming in the UK
The UK is experiencing a remarkable surge in dog-friendly establishments, with pubs leading the way. According to research, 98% of dog-friendly pubs have seen an increase in business after opening their doors to four-legged patrons. This isn’t surprising considering the nation’s love affair with dogs – there are approximately 12 million pet dogs in the UK, with 33% of homeowners having a dog as part of their family.
The good news is that, despite common misconceptions, there are no UK laws preventing dogs from entering pubs. The only legal restrictions apply to food preparation areas, such as kitchens. This means the decision to welcome dogs rests entirely with the pub owner or manager.
Discovering Dog-Friendly Pubs Near You
Using Apps and Websites
Finding dog-friendly pubs has never been easier thanks to dedicated apps and websites. Here are some popular options:
- DoggiePubs – A non-commercial guide listing over 5,000 dog-friendly pubs throughout the UK. Pubs are included by recommendation, not payment, ensuring genuine dog friendliness.
- Doggity– An interactive app with over 900 venues nationwide that allows you to find, add, review, and share dog-friendly establishments.
- BorrowMyDoggy – Features a comprehensive map of dog-friendly pubs across the UK and Ireland.
- DUGS– An app featuring over 400 dog-friendly listings split by area and various categories, with an extensive Glasgow section including an interactive pub map.
- BringFido – While originally US-focused, this app is growing its UK database thanks to dog owners submitting recommendations.
Major Pub Chains with Dog-Friendly Policies
Several major UK pub chains welcome dogs at many or all of their locations:
- Greene King – This mega pub chain has hundreds of dog-friendly pubs across the UK. They not only welcome your dog but also provide water and treats.
- Belhaven Brewery – Their pubs across Scotland welcome dogs with open arms, providing comfortable areas, water bowls, and sometimes treats.
- Vintage Inns – These pubs welcome every member of the family, including your beloved dog, with fresh water bowls and sometimes treats.
- Heritage Pubs – With locations all over the UK, they offer the perfect spot for you, your family, and your four-legged friends to relax and enjoy.
The UK’s Most Dog-Friendly Cities
Brighton: The UK’s Top Dog-Friendly City
According to research by Animal Friends, Brighton ranks as the number one city for dog owners in the UK. The seaside city boasts:
- Easy access to Brighton beach, a favourite for coastal getaways
- The highest availability of dog training classes (118 per 100,000 people)
- 22 dog-friendly cafes
- 66 pro-pooch pubs
Other Top Dog-Friendly Cities
Research from various sources reveals other top contenders for the UK’s most dog-friendly cities:
- Glasgow – Ranked as the UK location with the highest dog population, with 9,927 dog owners (31.3 per 1,000 households).
- Chester – Ranks as the third most dog-friendly city and is at the top for pro-canine cafes, with 20 per 100,000 residents.
- Wakefield – The top city for dog-friendly bars and restaurants (99 per 100,000).
- City of Westminster – Boasts 282 dog-friendly pubs and ranks highest for dog-friendly workplaces, with 428 live dog-friendly job listings.
- Carlisle – Named the most dog-friendly city in the UK according to Sainsbury’s Bank, scoring highly for dog-friendly accommodations and green spaces.
- Durham – Came in second place according to Sainsbury’s Bank, with the most dog-friendly rooms for rent.
- Edinburgh has 106 dog-friendly pubs and restaurants, the highest of any UK city.
9 Hidden Gem Dog-Friendly Pubs Across the UK
1. The York Inn, Taunton
Location: Honiton Road, Churchinford, Taunton, TA3 7RF
Named as the top dog-friendly pub in and around Taunton, this establishment offers a warm welcome to four-legged friends. The staff are known for their exceptional hospitality towards dogs, making it a favourite among local pet owners.
2. The Brandling Villa, Newcastle
Location: Haddricks Mill Road, South Gosforth, Newcastle
This enthusiastically family and dog-friendly pub boasts some of the beefiest burgers in Newcastle and one of the broadest selections of beer and whisky in the city. One of the pub’s biggest selling points is their pack of regular canine visitors, and their social media is full of funny “tails” about their four-legged friends.
3. The Fourth, Newcastle
Location: Pink Lane, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 5DW
Potentially the most dog-friendly pub in Newcastle! They provide clean water bowls, jars of free biscuits, and even fleecy blankets for your pooch to snuggle up with. Their dedication to canine comfort makes this a standout destination for dog owners.
4. The Star Inn, Sparsholt, Oxfordshire
Location: Sparsholt, Oxfordshire
Known for its organic homemade treats for dogs, this pub goes above and beyond to make four-legged visitors feel special. The quaint Oxfordshire setting provides a perfect backdrop for a relaxing drink after a countryside walk.
5. The Ship, Norfolk
Location: Norfolk’s north coast
The Ship on Norfolk’s popular north coast (and its sister The Crown at Wells-next-the-Sea) is a dog’s paradise. They don’t just provide beds and towels but bedside snacks in the rooms too – perfect after a coastal path walk or a winter run on Brancaster beach.
6. The Lord Crewe Arms, Northumberland
Location: Blanchland, Northumberland
If your dog loves the camera, this is the place for you. At the Lord Crewe Arms, set in a timeless village deep in Pennine moorland, they don’t just like dogs, they LOVE them. Your four-legged friend will not only be pampered in the room with their bed and bowl, but they might also become famous on the pub’s social media channels.
7. City Tavern, Newcastle
Location: 10 Northumberland Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8JF
This pub takes dog friendliness to another level with resident bar hounds (Alfie, Hector, Dillon, and Rupert) who take turns being in the bar each day. They offer plenty of water bowls and a stock of special gourmet dog treats, including a dedicated doggy menu.
8. The Goshawk, Mouldsworth, Cheshire
Location: Mouldsworth, Cheshire
As thoughtful about vegetarians as it is about furry guests, The Goshawk offers delicious food options for humans while being exceptionally welcoming to dogs. Located near Delamere Forest, it’s perfect for a post-walk refreshment.
9. The Durham Ox, Yorkshire
Location: Yorkshire
The Durham Ox in Yorkshire rounds out our list of hidden gems with its exceptional reputation for dog friendliness. Known for its warm Yorkshire welcome, this pub ensures both two-legged and four-legged guests feel right at home.
Dog-Friendly Pub Etiquette: Making the Most of Your Visit
Before You Go
- Do your research – 64% of UK dog owners research dog-friendly pubs before visiting. Call ahead or check online to confirm the pub’s dog policy.
- Check your dog’s social skills – Ensure your dog is comfortable in social settings with strangers and other dogs before bringing them to a pub.
- Exercise your dog first – A tired dog is more likely to settle calmly in the pub environment.
- Pack essentials – Bring water, treats, and something familiar for your dog to lie on.
During Your Visit
- Keep your dog on a lead – This is a common requirement in most dog-friendly pubs.
- Be mindful of space – Keep your dog close to you and out of walkways to avoid trips and falls.
- Monitor behaviour – Address any barking, jumping, or other disruptive behaviour immediately.
- Respect other patrons – Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, so be considerate of others’ space.
- Clean up after your dog – Always carry poop bags and clean up any accidents immediately.
What Makes a Pub Truly Dog Friendly?
According to research by Rover.com, here’s what dog owners look for in a genuinely dog-friendly pub:
- Water bowls are available (the most important feature for 77% of dog owners)
- Dog treats behind the bar (appreciated by 40% of owners)
- Dog beds or designated areas for dogs to relax
- Staff who actively engage with and welcome dogs
- Clear signage indicating dogs are welcome
Interesting Fact: Unique Dog-Friendly Features at UK Pubs
Some pubs go above and beyond basic dog friendliness. For example:
- The Brandling Villa in Newcastle offers a special dog-friendly menu including “Bark Burgers” and “Bark Bangers.”
- The Chequers Inn in Lincolnshire makes your dog “famous” by featuring them on their social media
- The Cholmondeley Arms in Cheshire offers dog “beer” (a meaty stock-based drink) and plenty of treats from a jar on the bar
Is There an App for Dog-Friendly Pubs?
Yes, there are several! The most popular dedicated apps for finding dog-friendly pubs in the UK include:
- Doggity – Your guide to dog-friendly dining venues in urban Britain with over 900 venues nationwide.
- DoggiePubs – Available on app stores, this app allows you to search for dog-friendly pubs by postcode or GPS and includes dog-friendliness star ratings.
- DUGS – Features over 400 dog-friendly listings split by area and various categories.
- BringFido – While originally US-focused, this app is growing its UK database.
Additionally, many major pub chains like Greene King and Vintage Inns have their own websites and apps with filters for finding dog-friendly locations.
What is the Number One Dog-Friendly City?
Based on comprehensive research, Brighton has been named the number one city for dog owners in the UK.
However, different studies highlight different cities:
- Glasgow has the highest dog population per capita (31.3 per 1,000 households)
- Carlisle scored highest on Sainsbury’s Bank’s dog-friendly cities index
- Southampton was named the best UK city for keeping dogs active, according to Hill’s Pet Nutrition
The “most dog-friendly” title ultimately depends on the specific metrics being measured, whether it’s the number of dog-friendly pubs, green spaces, or overall dog population.
Are Dogs Allowed in Pubs in the UK?
Yes, dogs are allowed in pubs in the UK, but with some important caveats:
- There are no UK laws that exist to stop dogs from entering pubs
- The only legal restrictions apply to food preparation areas, such as kitchens
- The decision to allow dogs rests entirely with the pub owner or manager
- Some pubs restrict dogs to certain areas, particularly where food is served
- Popular pub chain J.D. Wetherspoon has enforced a ban on dogs from all its pubs
When in doubt, it’s always best to check with the specific pub before visiting with your dog.
Are Belhaven Pubs Dog Friendly?
Yes, Belhaven pubs are generally dog-friendly. According to the Belhaven Brewery website, they have dozens of dog-friendly pubs across Scotland that welcome four-legged visitors “with open arms”.
Their dog-friendly philosophy includes:
- Providing comfortable areas where dogs can happily lie down and relax
- Offering water bowls for thirsty pups
- Having treats on hand for well-behaved canine visitors
- Creating a welcoming atmosphere for the entire family, including pets
One specific example is The Brig & Barrel in Belhaven, which is described as a “family and dog-friendly country pub” with a cosy interior and an outdoor beer garden.
Finding the Perfect Dog-Friendly Pub Experience
Dog-Friendly Restaurants Near Me
If you’re looking for dining options beyond pubs, many restaurants now welcome dogs, too. Use apps like Doggity, BringFido, or DogFriendly.co.uk to find restaurants that accommodate both you and your furry friend.
Dog-Friendly Pubs Near Me Open Now
For spontaneous outings, most pub-finding apps allow you to filter for establishments that are currently open. Greene King’s website (greeneking.co.uk) has a “pubs near me” feature where you can filter for dog-friendly pubs and check current opening hours.
Best Dog-Friendly Pubs Near Me
Finding the “best” dog-friendly pub depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors like:
- Distance from your location
- Food quality
- Beer selection
- Outdoor space
- Special amenities for dogs
- Overall atmosphere
Reading reviews from other dog owners can provide valuable insights into how genuinely welcoming a pub is to four-legged patrons.
Key Takeaways
- No legal barriers: There are no UK laws preventing dogs from entering pubs (except in food preparation areas)
- Research first: 64% of UK dog owners research pubs before visiting with their dogs
- Use technology: Several apps and websites can help you find dog-friendly pubs nearby
- Major chains welcome dogs: Greene King, Belhaven, Vintage Inns, and others have dog-friendly policies
- Regional variations: Brighton, Glasgow, Chester, and Carlisle rank among the most dog-friendly cities
- Practice good etiquette: Keep your dog leashed, well-behaved, and be considerate of other patrons
- Look for special features: The most dog-friendly pubs offer water bowls, treats, and comfortable spaces for dogs
FAQ
Are dogs allowed in all areas of dog-friendly pubs?
Not necessarily. Many dog-friendly pubs restrict dogs to specific areas, particularly away from dining sections. Always check with the staff about where your dog is welcome within the establishment.
Do I need to call ahead before bringing my dog to a pub?
It’s not always required, but it’s a good practice, especially if you’re visiting for the first time or planning to dine. A quick call can confirm their dog policy and help you avoid any disappointment.
What should I do if my dog becomes anxious or starts barking in a pub?
If your dog shows signs of distress, it’s best to take them outside for a short break to calm down. If the behavior continues, consider cutting your visit short for the comfort of your dog and other patrons.
Are there any breeds that are typically not allowed in dog-friendly pubs?
Most dog-friendly pubs don’t have breed-specific restrictions, but they do expect all dogs to be well-behaved. Some establishments might have policies regarding larger breeds or dogs with a history of aggression.
Can I bring multiple dogs to a dog-friendly pub?
Many pubs welcome multiple dogs, but it’s courteous to check first, especially if you have more than two. Managing multiple dogs in a busy pub environment can be challenging, so ensure you can supervise them all adequately.
Do dog-friendly pubs provide food for dogs?
Some do! An increasing number of dog-friendly pubs offer special canine menus or treats. For example, Heritage Pubs offers items like “Bark Burgers,” “Bark Bangers,” and even “Bark Brew ‘Beer'” (a dog-safe beverage).
What should I bring when taking my dog to a pub?
Essential items include a lead, water bowl (if the pub doesn’t provide one), treats, something for your dog to lie on, and poop bags. Consider also bringing a favorite toy to keep them occupied.
Finding the perfect dog-friendly pub near you can enhance your social life while keeping your four-legged friend included in the fun. With the increasing number of establishments welcoming dogs across the UK, you’re sure to discover the ideal spot for you and your canine companion to relax and enjoy. Remember to call ahead, practice good etiquette, and most importantly, have fun creating memories together!