When searching for a holiday rental, it's surprising the number of properties that don't cater for dogs. Thanks heavens then for Dog Friendly Retreats, which comprehensively lists the holiday lets across the UK that welcome both you and your hound in luxurious surroundings.
Here, we've pulled together our top ten dog-friendly destinations, where you've got easy access to great walks and open spaces.
Cornwall (3,066 cottages)
There are no surprises to find Cornwall at the top of the list. Afterall, the region is visited by a stagerring four million visitors a year who can't get enough of the fabulous beaches and surf, pretty villages with endless great places to eat. Go out of season and you can enjoy long walks down the beach, or head into the surrounding countryside to get away from it all.
The Smith, Blislandy
This cosy cottage with one double bedroom and two dogs, is situated on the owner's farm and the pub and shops are just a ten minute walk away.
Devon (2,461 cottages)
If you're after dramatic scenery, Devon is a wonderful place to visit with dogs. There are clifftop walks on the South West coast Path and for something more rugged, National Parks, Dartmoor and Exmoor, are close.
Townend Barn, Lydford
This barn is an elegant single storey cottage in the heart of a pretty village, which sleeps two people with a shower room. There is a lawned garden for your dogs to run around in and for those musically inclined, there is a fully tuned Steinway piano. The village has two good pubs and a farm shop.
Yorkshire (2,306 cottages)
For keen walkers, Yorkshire is a paradise, with its high moors, picturesque villages and stunning coastline. With over 2,000 properties to choose from, it's easy to find a property to suit your needs..
Cupid's Cottage, Bridlington
This end-terrace cottage for two is only two miles from popular Bridlington. It's the perfect base to explore the surrounding area, whether you head towards the coast or the Yorkshire Wolds.
Norfolk (1,602 cottages)
Norfolk, another very popular staycation destination, is an ideal county for holidaying with dogs in tow. You have the pick of the coastline, with its stunning villages, interesting shops and pubs, the Broads or you can head into the countryside for longer rambles.
Wonderful Blakeney Holiday Property
Blakeney is a pretty coastal village on the River Glaven estuary and this cottage is in a prime position on Mariners Hill. There is a fantastic deli in the village and a fishmonger, selling freshly caught produce.
Cumbria (1346 cottages)
Head north for a touch of Cumbrian ruggedness, with the Lake District National Park at its heart. There is no better place to enjoy the great outdoors, the panoramic scenery and endless walks around.
Littewood Cottage, Staveley
This cottage sleeps two and has space for three dogs. It has fell views and walks straight out of the door. It's the perfect base to explore the Lake District National Park.
Gwynedd, North Wales (982 cottages)
Wales provides the perfect backdrop for keen walkers and their dogs. Gwynedd is a popular county with stunning beaches and hills aplenty.
Owl Cottage, Abersoch
Owl Cottage is a converted barn just outside Abersoch in North Wales, a high-end retreat for couples wishing to explore this beautiful area.
Northumberland (881 cottages)
You'll find dramatic countryside and seaside settings in Northumberland and with 790 dog-friendly cottages to choose from, it's the perfect place to explore the rugged scenery, historic sites and towns.
Oak Tree Lodge, Otterburn
A pretty conversion, which is ideal for couples and the family pet. You can walk, cycle, fish, ride, play golf and there is a pub nearby.
Dorset (864 cottages)
Dorset is renowned for its quaint villages, big rolling hills, sandy beaches and a dramatic coastline, all ready for exploration by walkers and dogs alike. Walk the South West Coast Path or find quiet country lanes and footpaths.
Little Maltings, Milton Abbas
This upmarket barn conversion is in Milton Abbas. There is a gastropub in the village, which you can walk to, and a farm shop. Situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this rental offers excellent walking opportunities.
Pembrokeshire (724 cottages)
The coastline defines this beautiful part of Wales, home to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, where you can choose to walk the coastal path or head into the hills.
Hazel Nook, Narberth
This cosy shepherd’s hut sits on the outskirts of a village, where there's a shop and pub within walking distance. It's a quirky rental and fun for people looking for something different.
Suffolk (586 cottages)
Suffolk has a lot to offer to holiday makers from the towns of Aldeburgh and Bury St Edmunds to its coastline and salt marshes. It's a paradise for wildlife and flora, all of which can be enjoyed by walkers and cyclists.
Wren Cottage, Wisset, near Halesworth
This cosy bolthole for two allows for one dog. Perfectly situated to visit RSPB Minsmerem which is 13+ miles away and the Suffolk Heritage Coast.
August 2021
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