Dog Friendly Holidays

Looking for dog friendly holiday ideas, inspiration and accommodation?

The Plus 2 Dogs website has lots of dog friendly accommodation - specialising in holiday properties which will accept 2 or more dogs per booking, not just limiting it to 1 dog as many do!

Plus 2 Dogs has information on:

• Dog friendly travel guides for areas of the UK including the Lake District, North Yorkshire, Cornwall, Scotland, Wales, and Northumbria
• Monthly dog walking ideas - from bluebell walks in spring to cool spots for summer dog walking to the best places to spot the autumn colour in woodlands all over the country
• Ideas for dog friendly places to visit in the UK
• Dog friendly holiday accommodation - from cottages to holiday parks and B&Bs to camp sites

Find out more on Plus 2 Dogs

Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year!

Even More Dog Friendly Christmas Walks

I'm not moving off my bed...

Over the past few days we have posted on this blog about dog friendly winter walks - National Trust, Woodland Trust and the Ramblers, see blog archive for details - and this theme continues today with some festive dog friendly walks around Devon.



The website lists 20 walks, varying in length from just under 2 miles to just over 5 miles, the walk details also say if there is a handy pub or tea room enroute.

Find out more and download the walks via the Devon Walks website

More Winter Walks To Enjoy With Your Dogs

Dog Friendly Walks For the Festive Season - and beyond!

Looking to enjoy a walk over the festive break with your dogs, family and friends?  Fancy exploring somewhere new?  During the last week or so Plus 2 Dogs has posted on its blog about the National Trusts' 'Walking in A Winter Wonderland' strolls and also about the Ramblers 'Winter Walks Festival', now we've also heard about the Woodland's Trust 'Celebrity Winter Walks' - you can find details below on each of these great initiatives designed to inspire us to get out and enjoy the countryside during the winter !


Woodland Trust - Celebrity Winter Woodland Walks
The Woodland Trust has asked some top celebrities where their favourite UK walks are and then provided all the details you need to get out and try the walks for yourself this winter, the walks include:

• Simon King - Dartmoor
• Dame Judi Dench - Yorkshire
• Sir Matthew Pinsent - Norfolk
• Ben Fogle - Greater london
• Adrian Chiles - Worcestershire
• Nick Nairn - Scotland
• Iolo Williams - Wales
• Tony Robinson - Herefordshire

Find out more on the Celebrity Winter Woodland Walks website


National Trust Winter Wonderland Walks

The National Trust has selected six walks as examples of  great 'walking in a winter wonderland'  strolls - and the great news is, they're dog friendly too!

From Somerset to the Peak District, Worcestershire to Bedfordshire, Yorkshire to Northern Ireland, get out and enjoy a winter stroll with your canine companions this December!

Visit the Walking in a Winter Wonderland page on the National Trust website to download the walks.

Festival of Winter Walks
The Ramblers are running their Festival of Winter Walks again this year.

The festival runs from December 24th 2011 to January 2nd 2012 and the website lists hundreds of walks all over the UK, which are free to join and open to everyone.

The walks range from short family-friendly strolls to more strenuous hikes, there are even festive themed walks too!

Most of these walks will welcome you and your dogs but not all routes/walks are dog friendly so do check before setting off - there are contact details for the walk leaders listed on the website.

Simply head to the Ramblers festival of Winter Walks website and you can search for walks near you by town, county, postcode or map.

Enjoy!

Discover Dog Friendly Britain

Looking for dog friendly holiday ideas, inspiration and accommodation?

The Plus 2 Dogs website has lots of dog friendly accommodation - specialising in holiday properties which will accept 2 or more dogs per booking, not just limiting it to 1 dog as many do!




Plus 2 Dogs has information on:

• Dog friendly travel guides for areas of the UK including the Lake District, North Yorkshire, Cornwall, Scotland, Wales, and Northumbria

• Monthly dog walking ideas - from bluebell walks in spring to cool spots for summer dog walking to the best places to spot the autumn colour in woodlands all over the country

• Ideas for dog friendly places to visit, beaches & walks in the UK

• Dog friendly holiday accommodation - from cottages to holiday parks and B&Bs to camp sites

Find out more on Plus 2 Dogs

Dog Friendly Cottages in Lincolnshire

Greetham Retreat Holidays, Greetham Lodge, nr Horncastle, Lincolnshire

If you're looking for a relaxing holiday in luxurious, stylish, pet friendly accommodation, with breath-taking scenery and accessibility along with privacy, then Greetham Retreat, situated deep in the Lincolnshire Wolds, is perfect for you.

They have three cottages; Katie's Corner for six guests, Maggie's Mews for four and Wendy's Wing for couples, all are suitable for 2 or more dogs.

The cottages are located within private enclosed 4 acre grounds containing woodland, wild-flower meadows, natural hedgerows and wildlife ponds, all of which are freely available for your recreation. This could be your perfect location for that relaxing getaway with your dogs.

Find out more on the Plus 2 Dogs website
Number of Dogs - 2

Festival of Winter Walks



Plus 2 Dogs Labradors Tobi & Meg enjoying the snow!



The Ramblers are running their Festival of Winter Walks again this year.

The festival runs from December 24th 2011 to January 2nd 2012 and the website lists hundreds of walks all over the UK, which are free to join and open to everyone.

The walks range from short family-friendly strolls to more strenuous hikes, there are even festive themed walks too!

Most of these walks will welcome you and your dogs but not all routes/walks are dog friendly so do check before setting off - there are contact details for the walk leaders listed on the website.

Simply head to the Ramblers festival of Winter Walks website and you can search for walks near you by town, county, postcode or map.

Enjoy!

Scottish Dog Friendly Hotel

The Galley of Lorne Inn, Ardfern, Nr Oban, Argyll

Whisk yourself away to this award winning dog friendly 17th Century Drovers Inn nestled on the lochside in the picturesque village of Ardfern, on Scotland's dramatic west coast.


Spend your days exploring castles, beaches and gardens. Perhaps take a woodland walk or discover a Hebridean Island or two from nearby Oban Harbour.

After a full days adventure, relax on the lochside sundeck perhaps with a fine wine, whisky or real ale whilst contemplating whether to have the freshly landed seafood or the wonderful meat or game for tonight's dinner.
And when the day is done, retire to your bedroom safe in the knowledge that you've had a brilliant day...
Number of Dogs - max 2 small or 1 large per room (6 rooms)

Find out more on the Plus 2 Dogs website

Dog Friendly Winter Walks

The National Trust has selected six walks as examples of  great 'walking in a winter wonderland'  strolls - and the great news is, they're dog friendly too!

From Somerset to the Peak District, Worcestershire to Bedfordshire, Yorkshire to Northern Ireland, get out and enjoy a winter stroll with your canine companions this December!

Visit the Walking in a Winter Wonderland page on the National Trust website to download the walks.

Winter Walks & Festive Fun

The Forestry Commission are running 'magical Winter Walk Festive Fun' events at Hamsterley Forest in Northumbria near Bishop Auckland.

This weekend (Dec 17/18, 10am - 4pm) you, the family, friends and your dogs can go along and enjoy a great winter walk in the forest and, if you wish, the children can visit a 'green' Santa in his grotto and then you can round the day off with a visit to the on site tearoom.

Booking isn't required.

Find out more on the Hamsterly page of the Forestry Commision website

Dog Friendly Norfolk Chalets

Sunwright Holidays, Hemsby, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk

Newly refurbished and double glazed dog friendly self catering holiday chalets in Hemsby, Norfolk.

Sleep up to 6 with 2 bedrooms - 1 double and 1 twin and a double sofa-bed.  Close to the beach (open to dogs) and all local amenities. Within easy reach of Norfolk's many attractions and hidden gems, family friendly park with plenty of (communal) outside space.

Dogs are most welcome and they will even be happy to help you find the best 'walkies' and dog friendly establishments.

Number of Dogs - Any
Find out more on the Plus 2 Dogs website

Travel With Your Pets

If you're planning a journey - either day trip or holiday - and you want to take your dogs with you then it can be tricky to know where your pets will be welcome, on what modes of public transport they can travel and how much you will be charged.

Plus 2 Dogs has put together an 'On the Move - Travel Planning With Your Dogs' page on its website with links to the 'pets' pages of bus, rail and ferry operators all over the UK including:

• Isle of Wight ferry operators
• Scottish ferry operators
• Scotrail
• National Express
• Arriva Buses

Find out more on the Plus 2 Dogs website



http://www.plus2dogs.co.uk/doggie_travel.html

Pet Friendly Apartment Near Edinburgh

Glenavon House, By Linlithgow, nr Edinburgh, West Lothian

Glenavon House is an impressive Scots Baronial style home nestled on the edge of the Historic burgh of Linlithgow. Glenavon are pleased to accept two dogs in the apartment which is situated in the west wing of the house.
The accommodation, over three floors, is fully self-contained and features a good-sized, fully fitted kitchen with oven and hob, fridge freezer and washer dryer. There is a kitchen table which seats four people. Upstairs on the first floor is a comfortable sitting room with a large flat screen TV and DVD player and a beautiful bathroom with cast iron bath and shower and a separate toilet. On the second floor are two good-sized bedrooms, one double and one twin-bedded.
The apartment comes with its own entrance and walled garden and there is a connecting door to the main house for those who prefer bed and breakfast.

There's lots to see and do in the area and plenty of dog friendly walks close by including the trail around Linlithgow Loch.

Number of Dogs - 2Find out about this dog friendly accommodation, plus much more, on the Plus 2 Dogs website

Where Can I Walk My Dogs?

The Plus 2 Dogs website has lots of ideas and inspiration for places to walk your dogs throughout the UK including:

• Our 'Walks' page with links to the dog walking pages of lots of websites including national parks, the Forestry Commission and Woodland Trust
• Our seasonal/monthly updated dog walks page

• Our area travel guides include details on dog friendly walks, beaches and places to visit

Take a look and see if you can find somewhere new to take you, your dogs and family this weekend!

Dog Friendly Holiday Lodges in Scotland

Ben Wyvis Lodges, Blackmuir Wood, Strathpeffer, Scottish Highlands



Eagle & Otter Lodges are Scandinavian style cabins in a woodland setting, amidst tranquil Forestry Commission land on the edge of the picturesque Victorian Spa village of Strathpeffer.

Ideal for walking, bird watching and escaping the grind of every day life, there are plenty of popular attractions nearby.

Number of Dogs - 2, space limiting but others by prior arrangement
Find out more on Plus 2 Dogs website

Dog Friendly Scotland

Plus 2 Dogs has put together a number of dog friendly travel guides to different areas of the UK, including ideas and inspiration on:

• where to walk your dogs
• dog friendly places to visit
• dog friendly beaches
• dog friendly places to stay

Out latest travel guide is for southern Scotland in the Scottish Borders.

Our other area guides currently also include:

• Lake District
• Northumbria
• North Yorkshire
• North Wales
• Scottish Highlands
• Dumfries & Galloway
• Cornwall

There will be more dog friendly travel guides added to the Plus 2 Dogs website soon!

Discover Dog Friendly Britain

Looking for dog friendly holiday ideas, inspiration and accommodation?

The Plus 2 Dogs website has lots of dog friendly accommodation - specialising in holiday properties which will accept 2 or more dogs per booking, not just limiting it to 1 dog as many do!

Plus 2 Dogs has information on:

• Dog friendly travel guides for areas of the UK including the Lake District, North Yorkshire, Cornwall, Scotland, Wales, and Northumbria
• Monthly dog walking ideas - from bluebell walks in spring to cool spots for summer dog walking to the best places to spot the autumn colour in woodlands all over the country
• Ideas for dog friendly places to visit in the UK
• Dog friendly holiday accommodation - from cottages to holiday parks and B&Bs to camp sites

Find out more on Plus 2 Dogs

Dog Friendly Scottish Hotel

Craigerne House Hotel,  Newtonmore, Inverness shire

Dog friendly Craigerne is available for hotel accommodation or also as a large self catering holiday house, able to sleep 20 persons.

Situated in mature private gardens on the golf course in Newtonmore and within the Cairngorm National Park, Craigerne is the perfect place to enjoy all that the Cairngorms and the Scottish Highlands has to offer.

Number of Dogs - 2 (or more by arrangement)
Find out more on the Plus 2 Dogs website

Dog Friendly Cottages in Sussex

The Warrens and Kittiwake, Camber, East Sussex
The Warrens and Kittiwake are beautifully presented beach houses which can be linked to accommodate a group of up to 10 people or individually can accommodate 8 in the Warrens and 2 in Kittiwake.

The houses are a dream for those who choose to holiday with their dogs without compromising on style and comfort. The gardens are completely secure, and you can walk to the amazing seven mile sandy beach without going near a real road.

East Sussex is a beautiful and diverse county with sandy coves, rugged cliffs and rolling wooded hills offering immeasurable opportunity for dog walking.

Number of Dogs - negotiable, 2 included in price, further to that they are charged @ £20 each
Find out more on the Plus 2 Dogs website

Go Walkies in Benarty Woodland

Dog walkers, ramblers and hikers in Fife will now able to take advantage of a new woodland footpath and beautiful views from Benarty Hill, thanks to a project by the Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS).

After months of careful planning and community consultation, work has taken place over the last three weeks to create a new forest path connecting Ballingry to Benarty, which is now open for local people to enjoy.

The project, funded by FCS, aims to improve access to Benarty Hill and encourage people to explore their local woodland safely as part of the organisation’s commitment to enhancing community engagement within the area.

Jenny Ventham, community ranger at Forestry Commission Scotland, said: “After consultation with the residents’ forum of Benarty, the creation of the path was seen as an excellent investment, not only for the community but for the large number of visitors that visit the woodland each year.

“Encouraging local communities into their local woodland by providing easy access to doorstep facilities is a top priority for Forestry Commission Scotland. We hope that creating this fantastic new path will inspire more people to get out and explore the beauty of Benarty Hill and enjoy the great outdoors that Scotland has to offer.”

Dog Friendly Travel Guide To Cornwall

The Plus 2 Dogs website has added a new dog friendly travel guide to its collection - dog friendly Cornwall.

You can find ideas on Cornish dog friendly walks, beaches and places to visit here

Find Dog friendly cottages in Cornwall on Plus 2 Dogs

Find dog friendly hotels in Cornwall on Plus 2 Dogs

Dog Friendly Yorkshire Cottages

Moorland Holiday Cottages , Hammer & Hand House, Hutton-le-Hole

Three 4 star cottages located in the beautiful North York Moors village of Hutton le Hole. Hutton le Hole is conveniently located for Moors, Coast and the City of York. Heather, Moorland and Byre Cottage sleep 5, 4 and 3 people respectively in 2 bedroomed cottages. The cottages have been renovated to a high standard in full over the past 3 years. 

There's a paddock on site for your dogs, with many walks also on the doorstep.
Number of Dogs - 2 - 3

Find out more on the Plus 2 Dogs website

Searching For Vets On Your Holidays

When you're travelling on holiday and taking your canine companions with you then it can be reassuring to have to hand the contact details for vets in the areas you are visiting.

Plus 2 Dogs has found  the Any UK Vets website to be useful when looking for vets around the country.

Dog Friendly Cottage in Yorkshire

Foxhole Rigg Barn Cottage,Yorkshire

 

Look carefully at the centre of this picture and you’ll find Foxhole Rigg Barn Cottage, surrounded by plenty of open fellside for your dogs and with easy access to the Howgills, Yorkshire Dales or Eastern Lake District. For quieter walks why not meander along the Eden and Lune valleys.

There’s a sitting area on the grass in front of the Barn, offering total privacy and seclusion. You may even see deer and curlew among the many wildflowers in the traditionally farmed meadow.

Number of Dogs - Any

Find out more on the Plus 2 Dogs website

 

Dog Friendly B&B in Cornwall

Dalswinton House, St Mawgan in Pydar, Cornwall

Dalswinton House has a 4 star rating and Silver Award from Visit Britain and is a Victorian stone-built former farmhouse standing in 10 acres of gardens and meadowland in the glorious Vale of Lanherne, midway between Padstow and Newquay.

Overlooking the village of St. Mawgan, with views to the sea at Mawgan Porth, the B&B has 8 bedrooms in the house, including 1 ground floor room, all rooms are en suite and equipped with colour TV, central heating and tea & coffee making facilities.

ALSO: Dalswinton Lodge - self-catering lodge situated within the grounds of the house, adjacent to the swimming pool.


Find out more on the Plus 2 Dogs website
Dogs - you'll find an award winning welcome to all house trained dogs free of charge. Dogs are allowed in all areas of the house except the restaurant, but must be kept on a lead at all times on the pool terrace. Your dogs sleep in your room. (Max 3 dogs per room). There are 8 acres of private meadow for dog exercise and there's a dog friendly beach (year round) just 1.5 miles away.

Number of Dogs - 3

Dog Friendly Lake District

Have you visited our new Dog Friendly Lake District mini-website on Squidoo? We've gathered together information on dog friendly accommodation, places to visit, eat and walk, all in the one user-friendly place - do take a look if you're planning a dog friendly trip to the gorgeous Lake District!

Find us on Squidoo and discover the dog friendly Lake District...

Dog Friendly Somerset B&B

Arden Cottage Bed and Breakfast, nr Taunton, Somerset

Why not consider a rural short break or weekend away in Somerset to blow away those cobwebs?

Arden Cottage is a 'home from home' B&B that is really well placed for long treks across Exmoor, the Quantocks, West Somerset Coastal Walk and Brendon Hills. Not only are there fabulous walks from this 15th century thatched cottage, there are also two dog friendly beaches just a short drive away.

The B&B provides treats for dogs on arrival, and even has a special doggie room where dogs can chill out without their owners if desired! If they prefer to stay in the room, they are allowed as long as they promise not to get on the bed and are not left on their own!

For stays of 3 nights or more, dogs go FREE.

For more details visit the Plus 2 Dogs website
Number of Dogs - 2

Do You Squidoo?



Enjoy a dog friendly holiday



Plus 2 Dogs on Squidoo

Ever heard of Squidoo? It's a great user friendly way to find out about loads of different topics via the Squidoo portal on the internet.

Plus 2 Dogs has recently launched 2 great dog friendly mini-websites on Squidoo so please take a look when you get a moment:

* www.squidoo.com/dog-friendly-britain-where-to-stay-visit-and-walk

* www.squidoo.com/dog-friendly-lake-district

We'll be adding more dog friendly destinations soon!

Don't forget we're also on Twitter and Facebook!

Dog Friendly Holiday Cottages In Wales

Stallion Valley Holiday Cottages, Cwm March, Prengwyn, Llandysul, Ceredigion

Stallion Valley is surrounded by fields, set in 3.5 acres of woodland and ponds. Facilities for dogs include local walks, exercise paddock, fully enclosed fenced gardens and dog sitting.



Stallion Valley, dog friendly cottages in glorious Wales



Close to Newquay and Aberaeron, central for towns & beaches, only 5 minutes walk to a dog & people friendly pub/restaurant!

Find out more on the Plus2 Dogs website

Number of Dogs - No reasonable limit

Dog Friendly Cottage in Shropshire

Mount Cottage, Bishops Castle, Shropshire


There is a very close walk where you can take your dog out morning and evening and there are lots of good walks for dogs where they can be safely off the lead, particularly in the forestry.
Number of Dogs - 4

Find out more on the Plus 2 Dogs website
The cottage with its own small walled garden, completely secure for dogs, has been converted from a small 17th century barn retaining much original character. It is modern inside and has everything you need, including bed linen and towels. The cottage has its own garage with hose pipe for dirty dogs. Extra dog towels and bowls also provided.

Dog Friendly Britain

Looking for dog friendly holiday ideas, inspiration and accommodation?

The Plus 2 Dogs website has lots of dog friendly accommodation - specialising in holiday properties which will accept 2 or more dogs per booking, not just limiting it to 1 dog as many do!

Plus 2 Dogs has information on:

• Dog friendly travel guides for areas of the UK including the Lake District, North Yorkshire, Cornwall, Scotland, Wales, and Northumbria
• Monthly dog walking ideas - from bluebell walks in spring to cool spots for summer dog walking to the best places to spot the autumn colour in woodlands all over the country
• Ideas for dog friendly places to visit in the UK
• Dog friendly holiday accommodation - from cottages to holiday parks and B&Bs to camp sites

Find out more on Plus 2 Dogs

Dog Friendly Hotel in Oban

Lancaster Hotel, Esplanade, Oban, Argyll


Pets are welcome and, for walkies, there is a beach to the front of the hotel plus the "Dunollie" woods to the rear.

Number of Dogs - as many as you have!

For more details visit the Plus 2 Dogs website

The Lancaster is a small, private, family run, sea front hotel in Oban. Some rooms have sea views, and all the public rooms look out over the bay. The hotel has an indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, spa and steam room.

Dog Friendly Hotel In Scottish Highlands

The Pines Country House, Duthil, Carrbridge, Invernessshire

The Scottish Highlands are stunning at any time of the year but now, as autumn slides into winter, and snow caps the impressive Cairngorm mountains, the air crisp and clear, this is, we think, a particularly special time of year to visit.

If you want to relax and enjoy Highland hospitality then you could try the dog friendly Pines Country House Hotel, set in mature woodlands 2 miles from the village of Carrbridge. All rooms are en-suite and it's in an ideal location for walking the dogs.

Number of dogs per room- 3

More details on the Plus 2 Dogs website

Dog Friendly Cornish Cottages

Why enjoy a dog friendly holiday in Cornwall this winter?

Reason 1 - Cornwall enjoys a mild climate, stunning beaches and impressive scenery which, combined, make this a great county to visit whatever the time of year.


Reason 2 - Many holiday cottages are open all year round and some of them offer real log fires or stoves to relax in front of after a bracing dog walk on the beach or in the woods - bliss!

Reason 3 - Many Cornish beaches welcome dogs all year round but during the autumn & winter don't forget that those beaches which do impose a summer seasonal dog ban have lifted those bans until next spring- giving you and your dogs loads and loads of quiet beaches to explore

Reason 4 - Cornwall still has lots going on during the winter plus there are some great Christmas and New Year events lined up too

Reason 5 - Plus 2 Dogs has 11 different holiday cottage options in Cornwall on its website- some are individual detached properties, others are located on farms, others are converted barns, there's something to suit all tastes and all budgets


Visit the Plus 2 Dogs Cornwall page for more details

Dog Friendly Cottage In Wales

Orchard House,  Newbridge-on-Wye, Powys



Dog friendly Orchard House in Wales

Orchard House is a country holiday cottage for people seeking 5 star quality accommodation in blissful surroundings and only yards from the River Wye. This charming stone cottage has a comfortable lounge, with large sofas and log burning stove, plus there's a fully enclosed garden which is safe for your dogs.
Number of Dogs - No limit on well behaved dogs.

For more details visit the Plus 2 Dogs website

Dog Friendly Somerset B&B

Arden Cottage Bed and Breakfast,  Williton, Somerset

Why not consider a rural short break or weekend away in Somerset to blow away those cobwebs?

Arden Cottage is a 'home from home' B&B that is really well placed for long treks across Exmoor, the Quantocks, West Somerset Coastal Walk and Brendon Hills. Not only are there fabulous walks from our 15th century thatched cottage, there are also two dog friendly beaches just a short drive away. This B&B has a true understanding of dogs and genuinely enjoys having them stay. 

Number of Dogs - 2
More details on the Plus 2 Dogs website

Dog Friendly Blackpool Hotel

The Chesterfield Licensed Hotel,  Blackpool

The Chesterfield, pet friendly hotel in Blackpool

A guaranteed warm welcome awaits you at The Chesterfield Pet Friendly Hotel in Blackpool.... along with delicious traditional food, excellent service, a friendly and relaxed "home from home" atmosphere and terrific value for money. Situated just off Central Promenade, midway between Blackpool Tower and Blackpool Pleasure Beach, and only 50 metres from the beach, The Chesterfield is the perfect base from which you can explore all of Blackpool and it's fabulous attractions!
Pets are welcome in all rooms free of charge.

Find out more on the Plus 2 Dogs website

National Trust For Scotland Is Dog Friendly

Are you off on your holidays in Scotland or do you live in Scotland and are looking for dog friendly places to visit for a day out that are suitable for all the family and the dogs too?

The National Trust For Scotland look after lots of historic properties, nature reserves, woodlands, sections of coast, beauty spots and country estates and quite a number of them are dog friendly, including:

• Hermitage, Perthshire (woodland)
• Dollar Glen, Clackmannanshire (woodland)
• Crarae Gardens, Argyll & Bute

To find out which other National Trust For Scotland locations are dog friendly visit their website

Dog Friendly Gardens To Visit

With all the beautiful autumn colours putting in an appearance now and, thanks to the recent mild weather, most of the plants in the gardens still looking great, despite it being nearly November, now is a great time to get out and about and explore some of Britain's finest public gardens.



The Britain's Finest website has a section listing details on some 179 gardens throughout the UK, all of which welcome you and your dogs for a gentle stroll and to admire the scenery.

Find out more on the the Britain's Finest Dog Friendly Gardens page






http://www.britainsfinest.co.uk/gardens/search_results.cfm/searchclasscode/4

Plus 2 Dogs Featured Dog Friendly Holidays

Looking for dog friendly UK accommodation as you plan an autumn or winter short break or even planning ahead for your summer holiday next year?

Plus 2 Dogs has brought together a special selection of featured dog friendly properties on the front page of its dog friendly holidays website, including stylish B&Bs in stunning locations such as:

• North Yorks Moors
• Lake District
• Kent & Sussex

Plus, check out our website for details on loads of things that are dog friendly including travel guides, transport details, walks, beaches, pubs and places to stay.

Dog Friendly Holidays: Heart of England

The counties collectively known as the Heart of England can sometimes be overshadowed by high profile places like Cornwall, the Lake District or Norfolk but the Heart has much to offer for holidays including:

• Lincolnshire - from the rolling hills and landscapes of the Wolds to the wide open spaces of the ultra quiet sandy beaches
• Derbyshire - in the Peak District there's still plenty to explore away from the tourist honey pots, moorland walks, pretty villages and reservoirs hidden away in the hills
• Gloucestershire - bustling market towns that are totally picture perfect
• Shropshire - home to foodie town Ludlow plus the impressive Hawkstone Park & Follies

Discover dog friendly places to stay in the Heart of England with Plus 2 Dogs

Dog Friendly Pubs

A British pub can be just the perfect spot to round off a great day of dog walking - think coffee and cake in front of the roaring log fire...mmm, perfect!

The Doggie Pubs website makes it quick and easy for you to track down a suitable dog friendly pub in the area where you're planning to take your walk.

Find a dog friendly pub close to your favourite walk, village, beach or attractions on the Doggie Pubs website

Dog Walks In UK

Finding suitable places to walk your dogs can be tricky when you're on your holidays, the Bull Dog Group UK website has some ideas on dog friendly places to walk in the UK including:

• Boulmer Sea Walk, Northumberland
• Aberffraw, Anglesey
• Barnwell Country Park, Cambridgeshire
• Bacton Wood, Norfolk
• Allean Woods, Perthshire....

                                                          .... and many others!

Focus on Northumbria

Plus 2 Dogs has put together a number of travel guides to various parts of the UK designed to provide ideas and inspiration for dog friendly places to visit, walk and stay.

Here's our ideas for Northumbria, specifically the Coquetdale area in the north east of the county, around the pretty little town of Rothbury:

Northumbria is a great county to explore with your canine companion. Many of the beaches welcome dogs all year round; there are some great forests and woodlands to explore as well as the stunning scenery of the Northumberland National Park.

Coquetdale is an area set roughly in the middle of Northumbria, around the pretty market town of Rothbury which lies on the River Coquet.

Impressive Bamburgh Castle

Plus 2 Dogs visited the area in March and there was still some snow to be seen on the top of the impressive Cheviot Hills in the distance and a refreshing (some might say bracing!) wind blowing in off the North Sea.

Here's our top dog-friendly picks for the area if you're thinking of visiting this pretty part of Northumbria:


Dog friendly beaches in this area include:

Plus 2 Dogs explores Bamburgh Beach

• Alnmouth (our favourite)
• Bamburgh
• Beadnell
• Boulmer
• Druridge Bay
• Embleton Bay
• Howick

Recommended walks: Our Labradors Tobi & Meg particularly enjoyed exploring the Forestry Commission walks at:

• Ravensheugh (4.5 miles) Simonside Hills, near Rothbury
• Castle Hill (4.75 miles) Thrunton Wood, near Rothbury

To find details of these (and many other) Forestry Commission routes in the area click here

For other walks:

• Rothbury Walking has details of the area's annual walking festival held in June
• You'll find walking ideas and downloadable route maps at Visit Northumberland
• Northumberland National Park has lots of walking route ideas

Places to visit:

• Cragside, a National Trust property with extensive grounds and estate land, woodland, lakes, and self guided walks. Dogs welcome but need to be kept on lead.
  
• Druridge Bay Country Park, a country park with beach, sand dunes, lakes, woods and meadows, all dog friendly.

For cottages in Northumbria click here

Dog Walking Ideas

Looking for some inspiration when it comes to where to take your canine companions for a stroll?

The Plus 2 Dogs labradors await news of where they're going for a walk...

The Walks pages and the Travel Guides on our website have lots of ideas for great places to walk your dogs in lovely scenery - from fells to woods and beaches.

Plus, our Places To Visit page also has ideas for where to walk your dogs from top organisations such as the National Trust, Forestry Commission and Woodland Trust.

Dog Friendly Holidays

If you're planning a dog friendly holiday then do have a look at the Plus 2 Dogs website which has:

• truly dog friendly accommodation details - from cottages to holiday parks and B&Bs to hotels, from coast to country
• dog friendly travel guides with details of walks, beaches, places to visit etc that all welcome dogs
• walk ideas and inspiration for you and your canine companions

Plus, much, much more.

Holidaying with dogs? Head to Plus 2 Dogs

Autumn Walks

If you're in Wiltshire and looking for suitable places to walk your dog then try the Tara's Trails website which has lots of useful countryside and dog walking trails (30 of them in fact!)


http://www.tarastrails.co.uk/index.htm

Dog Friendly Lake District

Windermere Marina Village, Bowness on Windemere, Cumbria

Luxury holiday cottages and apartments nestled around Windermere Marina in the heart of the Lake District, offers 4 star self catering accommodation in a secluded yet central location.

 Furnished and equipped to a high standard with 'essentials' such as, Freeview TV, Hi-fi, DVD, microwave, dishwasher, linen, towels and hairdryer you will find everything you need to enjoy your stay.

Accommodating up to two dogs, man's best friend can enjoy the family holiday too!
Number of Dogs - 2

Dog Friendly Devon

Stowford Lodge, North Devon

Enjoy a dog friendly holiday at Stowford Lodge Self Catering Holiday Cottages which are situated in the heart of rural Devon's Tarka-the-Otter country. Stowford Lodge is set in about 6 acres of private pasture land. There are four cottages- Tarquol, Halcyon and Old Nog Cottages, which each sleep 4 per cottage, and Warren Cottage sleeps 6.

The pictureseque and secluded location of Stowford Lodge makes it great for a dog friendly leisurely and peaceful countryside self-catering holiday, with many coastal, woodland and moorland walks in the surrounding area and many local places of interest to visit.

Number of Dogs - 2 maximum

For more details on dog friendly holidays at Stowford Lodge visit the Plus 2 Dogs website



 

Discover Dogs Event

Discover Dogs, organised by the Kennel Club, is now in its 15th year and, for 2011, will be at Earls Court, London on November 12th and 13th.

There's lots going on, including dog agility, competitions (for the humans as well as the dogs!) plus lots of exhibitors and trade stands with plenty of dog friendly items for sale.

For tickets and more information head to the Discover Dogs website

Dog Friendly Scottish Cottage

The Slochd, Carrbridge, Inverness-shire, Scotland

Slochd Holiday Cottage is a modernised traditional stone built cottage within easy reach of the Cairngorms and the ski centres, Inverness and Loch Ness and ideally situated for touring the Scottish Highlands.

Surrounded by woods and hills there are wonderful trails from the doorstep and it's a great area for birdwatching, walking, skiing or a quiet break.

Number of Dogs - 2
Find out more on the Plus 2 Dogs website

Guides To Dog Friendly Holidays

The Plus 2 Dogs team inspect another dog friendly beach!

Trying to find a suitable place to walk your dog or locate a dog friendly beach or place to visit when you're on your holidays can be tricky. To help fellow holidaymakers looking for dog friendly options we have put together some Dog Friendly Travel Guides which contain details on:

• Dog friendly walks
• Dog friendly beaches
• Dog friendly places to visit

We currently have travel guides on the following areas on the Plus 2 Dogs website:

Scotland

• Highlands
• Dumfries & Galloway
• Coming soon... Scottish Borders

Wales

• Anglesey
• Coming soon... Carmarthenshire, Conwy, Pembrokshire

England

• North Yorkshire
• Northumbria
• Lake District
• Coming soon... Cornwall, Norfolk, New Forest

Please visit us the Plus 2 Dogs website and select 'Travel Guides' on the left hand menu for more details

Devon is Dog Friendly

Glorious Devon has much to attract the holiday maker - not to mention stunning coast and cream teas! - and so, at Plus 2 Dogs,  we thought we'd bring you some great dog friendly self catering holiday options for Devon - all of which welcome you plus 2 dogs (or even 3 dogs in some cases!)



Carswell Farm Cottages,  Devon  -5 cottages on an organic dairy farm set in unspoilt countryside on the beautiful South Devon coast in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Cottages all have private gardens and are dotted around the farm in remote, rural settings only a short walk from the coast path - fantastic for dog walks and exploring nearby beaches (all dog friendly!). The local pubs also welcome dogs. Number of Dogs - 3
Stowford Lodge, North Devon - cottages are situated in the heart of rural Devon's Tarka-the-Otter country in about 6 acres of private pasture land. The beaches of the North Devon coast are less than half an hour's drive away with the moorland areas of Exmoor and Dartmoor within easy reach. The pictureseque and secluded location of Stowford Lodge mkes it the perfect base for a leisurely and peaceful country holiday, with many coastal, woodland and moorland walks in the surrounding area.
Number of Dogs - 2

The Kingston Estate - Devon. Kingston Estate consists of the main house, gardens, 9 cottages and leisure facilities which include a relaxing sauna, Jacuzzi, swimming pool and gym. Surrounding the cobbled North Courtyard lie the 5-star estate cottages which have been created from the restored period outbuildings at Kingston. In the local area you'll find many dog friendly beaches (details in each cottage) and Dartmoor is just 15 minutes away.

Dogs are provided with a water bowl, towel, throw, some essential bags and even welcome treats. Whilst Claude the resident Great Dane enjoys meeting friendly dogs for romps in the paddock by arrangement!Number of Dogs - 2+
Find out more about these and many other dog friendly properties in the UK on the Plus 2 Dogs website


Dog friendly beaches in Devon - to find out more details about which beaches are dog friendly in Devon try this page on the Visit Devon website http://www.visitdevon.co.uk/things-to-do/attractions/beaches/dog-friendly-beaches

Dog Friendly Holiday Park In Cornwall

If you're looking to plan a dog friendly holiday in Cornwall then you might be interested in the Carnmoggas Holiday Park which is set in a pretty countryside location and has:

• comfortable, modern accommodation options, all well equipped and offering great value for money
• convenient onsite facilities include a bar, heated swimming pool and children's play area
• autumn special offer, from £65 per night per caravan, minimum stay is just 3 nights

The Carnmoggas website has lots more details and you might also want to check out the Carnmoggas blog which is packed with useful info on lots of holiday-related Cornwall info including:

• finding places to eat in Cornwall
• attractions for all - from family friendly to dog friendly, from art galleries and culture to historical buildings and top gardens & country estates
• locate a Cornish beach to suit you and your companions - from surfing to building sandcastles or walking the dog

Find out more on the blog webpage

Dog Friendly Beaches In Scotland

Planning a coastal day trip, short break or holiday in Scotland and unsure as to which beaches are dog friendly?

The Plus 2 Dogs dog friendly beach research team at work!

The Keep Scotland Beautiful website could help you find the answer!

 http://coastal.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/current-award-holders.asp

Dog Friendly Off-Motorway Services

When travelling on longer journeys it can be tricky to find suitable places to break your journey. On some motorway service areas a nice patch of green grass for your dog to stretch its legs on (and do its business on, clearing up afterwards of course!) is a rare thing and packed, noisy, ultra-busy service station carparks can be a scary prospect for many dogs.

Plus 2 Dogs labrador Meg enjoying some fresh air.

Plus 2 Dogs has, of course, come across some exceptions including:

• Westmorland Services, Junction 38, M6, Cumbria - separate 'woodland walk' dog exercise areas, north and south bound, away from cars and noise - excellent!
• Annandale Water Services, Junction 16, A74(M), South Scotland - large grass areas and walks around lake at back of services - lots of green space!

So when we came across The Garden Centre Group website which is, as the name suggests, a collection of English garden centres, and their idea of being 'off-motorway service areas' we liked the idea of somewhere away from the main road where you and your dogs can take a break.

According to their website all of their centres are dog friendly and have "substantial traffic free outdoor areas where dogs can have a run around.''

So, next time you're travelling on an A road it might be worth checking out their website and seeing if there are any suitable dog friendly garden centres on your route.

Dog Friendly Campsites

Holidays With Your Dogs

UK campsites and holidays parks can offer a relaxed and informal holiday option for you and your dogs, with many sites offering separate facilities for dogs such as designated exercise fields.

Carnmoggas, a dog friendly holiday park in Cornwall

Plus 2 Dogs has details on lots of dog friendly holiday parks and caravan & campsites which will welcome you, your family and your pets in such destinations as:

• Devon
• Cornwall
• Kent
• Norfolk
• Dorset
• Sussex
• Essex
• Hampshire
• Suffolk

Discover dog friendly caravan sites with Plus 2 Dogs

 From Heart Research UK-

Dog Owners Are Healthier

Your four legged friend may be more than a faithful companion, he may also lead the way to a healthier, happier and longer life.  If you own a dog and walk him regularly, not only do you walk more but you are around 40% more likely than the average pooch free pedestrian to take part in other moderate physical activity, such as; gardening, golf, running and aerobics, improving your heart health and helping it beat for longer.
  - Dogs love their daily walks and make a great motivator for you.  Without the bark of a dog to get you out of the door on a dark morning you might be tempted to hit snooze when the alarm goes off.  Give in to the wet nose in your face and playful wagging tail telling you to get out and walk now, now, now. If you do disappoint your pet, you’ll only get those sad puppy dog eyes.

 - Kick start the day with a heart healthy walk with your canine companion.  Any brisk walk of at least 10 minutes can count towards your recommended 30 minutes a day and is equal to around 1,000 steps.  Up the pace of dog walks and reap the benefits in a reduced waistline and stronger heart.  Playing games like Frisbee and tug of war will keep that tail wagging and keep your heart working towards a healthier you.

  - A dog can make the ideal running or cycling buddy. Unlike a friend or colleague, a man’s best friend won’t cancel on you, give excuses, moan about the weather or slack off the pace.  

  - Interaction with your four legged friend helps boosts endorphins and lowers stress levels, which is great news for your mental health as well as your blood pressure.
  - 31% of households in the UK. If you have a canine companion at your heels, make sure you take the lead and get outside with your pooch.  Not only will this keep your dog fit and healthy, but it will keep you in great shape and reduce your risk of heart disease.
  - If you don’t own a dog then why not offer to help at your nearest shelter for abandoned and mistreated dogs?  Having a commitment will help you maintain the regular exercise that your heart and your new found friend need. Find your nearest dog walk through Dogs Trust http://www.waggywalks.org.uk/

It's Guide Dog Week 2011

Don't forget.... It's Guide Dog Week 2011, from 1st-9th October.

There's lots going on, visit the official website for details on fundraising activities that you and your dogs can enjoy whilst helping this incredible charity.

Find out more on the Guide Dogs website

 

Dog Friendly Beaches

Find Which Beaches Welcome Dogs At This Time Of The Year

As the main summer holiday season draws to a close more and more beaches become, once again, dog friendly.

Whilst some beaches are dog friendly all year round without any restrictions, other beaches ban dogs or restrict them to certain sections of beaches during the busier summer months, lifting such restrictions from around October 1st each year.

So, if you fancy a day trip to the sea, a seaside short break or a coastal holiday over the coming months then you may well find that you and your canine companions have much more choice when it comes to deciding which beaches to take a stroll on.

Some parts of the UK such as Scotland and Northumbria have few, if any, dog restrictions on their beaches anyway but others do enforce bans during the main tourist season.

Plus 2 Dogs has picked some tops spots that are now dog friendly:

• Details of dog friendly beaches in South WestWales
• Details of dog friendly beaches in Cornwall
• Details of dog friendly beaches in Suffolk
• Details of dog friendly beaches in Devon

 Check the internet for details of suitable beaches at your chosen UK destination where you and your dogs can enjoy a run and play on the sand or visit the UK Beach Days website which covers many parts of the country.

Dog Friendly Holiday Ideas

Dog Friendly Holidays: Stay, Walk, Visit

If you're on holiday in the UK this year (or planning your holidays for next year) and would like to find out about dog friendly places to visit and stay as well as dog friendly places to walk your dog and dog friendly beaches that you can all explore then make your first port of call the Plus 2 Dogs website which has information on:

* dog friendly cottages, hotels, B&Bs and holidays parks in the UK which will all welcome 2 or more dogs per booking
* dog friendly monthly walks ideas and inspiration
* information on travelling with your pets on ferries, trains & buses in the UK
* PLUS, dog friendly travel guides on
 -Cumbria
- Yorkshire
- Northumbria
- Scotland
- Wales
Plus, coming soon ... guides to Scottish Borders, Norfolk & Cornwall!

Discover a dog friendly UK at the Plus 2 Dogs website

Dog Walks On Hot Days

Dog Walking Inspiration

The Forestry Commission has a list of great forests and woods in England where dogs can enjoy a walk on a hot sunny day - check out there webpage Top Spots For Cool Dogs