One of the many pleasures of touring is being able to enjoy the company of your pets, and here, Jo Davies selects top dog-friendly destinations and attractions
According to a recent survey, 34% of UK households share their home with a pooch, so it’s clear we’re a nation of dog-lovers. And as more of us choose to tour in the UK, it’s also no surprise that more than half of dog-owners take their four-legged family members with them on holiday.
Whether you want to climb hills in the Lake District, relax on beaches in Cornwall or explore the UK’s heritage sites, taking your dog along can make a tour truly memorable. However, it can sometimes be tricky finding a campsite that loves your pets as much as you, or attractions that welcome dogs.
If you’re planning a tour with your pooch, it makes sense to do your homework first, to ensure they’ll be well catered for.
The National Trust operates a ‘pawprint’ scheme, rating how dog-friendly its locations are, while English Heritage has areas of its website dedicated to dog-friendly days out. Most campsites welcome dogs, but there are plenty who show a little extra love to furry guests. Here are a few of our favourites.
EAST
WHERE TO STAY Pinecones Caravan & Camping King’s Lynn, Norfolk pinecones.co.uk Open All year Equipped with an off-lead dog-walk and a ‘dogs’ brewery’ water station, this scenic site makes the perfect pooch getaway.
Charmingly rustic, the park has top-class facilities and hardstanding pitches. Local attractions Sandringham Estate, Scott Head Island, Snettisham Beach
Haw Wood Farm Saxmundham, Suffolk hawwoodfarm.co.uk Open 1 March to 14 January 2024 This immaculate site welcomes well-behaved dogs, providing a large, off-lead meadow, plenty of poo bins, tether points outside the facilities and dog treats in the onsite shop. Local attractions Dunwich Heath and Beach, Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB, Southwold Pier
Sandy Gulls Caravan Park Mundesley, Norfolk sandygulls.co.uk Open 1 March to 29 November 2023 This tranquil, adults-only park benefits from a seafront location and direct access to one of Norfolk’s finest beaches. Dog-friendly pubs are within walking distance. Local attractions North Norfolk Coastal Path
WHERE TO GO
Finns Dog Aqua Fun and Fitness Great Dunham, Norfolk finns.club Open April to October This outdoor pool welcomes dogs, puppies, and owners who want to bond with their pooch! The centre offers buoyancy aids for your dog, as well as sessions for beginners, puppies and solo swimmers.
Bure Valley Railway Aylsham, Norfolk bvrw.co.uk Open All year, except 25-26 December It’s all aboard this nostalgic steam train for a sceni
