The 20 Best Dog Friendly Hotels in the Lake District

Flickr user Jonny

With all those fells, woods and lakeside paths crying out to be walked and explored, it’s no surprise that the Lake District is a big attraction for dog-owners. Many hotels and pubs go out of their way to welcome both dogs – indeed, all sorts of pets – and their owners. The best dog-friendly hotels in the Lake District vary from traditional inns in more remote villages and valleys to top of the range luxury hotels. Many offer treats and welcome packs, some have ground-floor rooms with direct access to the property's grounds and others allow dogs to sit alongside owners at meal-times.

Rural dog friendly hotels

• If you want a Lake District dog-friendly hotel where you can head out straight from your bedroom door on a rambling walk, take a look at the Queens Head, a smart pub in the Troutdale valley overlooking Windermere.
• For tougher walking, the Wasdale Head Inn – a mountaineer’s favourite watering hole – at the remote head of Wasdale offers plenty of choices. Scafell Pike, Scafell and Great Gable are just a few of the fells you can do from here. Well behaved dogs are welcome both in the Inn and its self-catering cottages.
• For somewhere peaceful, take a look at Haweswater Hotel or Crake Trees Manor, both in the eastern lakes, and both lovely retreats.
• And dogs stay free at the Masons Arms near Cartmel Fell in the south-eastern Lake District. The dog-friendly rooms have their own private access and terraces, too.
• Nearby Hare and Hounds is a dog-friendly, 16th-century inn with a homely feel and good cask ales.
• The George & Dragon, a gastropub near Penrith provides special welcome packs for your four legged friend including personally tested walking routes.

Luxury dog-friendly hotels

• For a luxurious dog-friendly hotel, Forest Side near Grasmere offers ground-floor rooms with direct access to the hotel’s lovely grounds.
• Linthwaite House Hotel has three ground floor rooms with direct access to the grounds; dog beds and bowls are provided too.
• Holbeck Ghyll on the eastern slopes of Windermere has several dog-friendly bedrooms in a separate block from the main hotel.
• Its close neighbour, The Samling, which rivals it for views over the lake, also offers dog-friendly rooms plus walking routes.
• At the swish Applegarth Villa in Windermere, dogs are allowed in two suites and receive welcome packs; no charge!
• While at the Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa in Borrowdale dogs can join their owners in the library lounge at meal-times.

Dog-friendly hotels in towns

• The Sun Inn in Kirkby Lonsdale offers special doggy welcome packs, and, like many dog-friendly inns in the Lake District and Cumbria, are happy to serve meals in the bar areas so dogs can sit with their owners.
• The Black Bull in Sedbergh, where there’s excellent walking in the Howgill Fells, also allows dogs in the bar.
• As does the Royal Oak, a traditional pub in the heart of Keswick.
• At Lindeth Howe, near Bowness, the ground-floor bedrooms have patios and direct access to the garden.
• At Lancrigg, just outside the picture-perfect village of Grasmere, you can walk straight on to the fells or down through the village to a lakeshore walk along Grasmere lake.
• Rothay Manor, on the outskirts of Ambleside, is another good choice for lakeshore walks; Windermere is just a 10-minute stroll away.
• Both dogs and children are assured of a family-friendly welcome at The Crown Inn at Pooley Bridge.
• While at The Halston aparthotel in Carlisle, dogs are welcomed with bowls and treats.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include our selection of all the best hotels in the Lake District
• or all the best places to stay in Cumbria.
• Alternatively contact a friendly guru for advice.

  • The Queen's Head Cumbria 10 rooms from €158

    
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    Sailing  -  There are plenty of companies who will take you out sailing on Lake Windemere if you fancy a bit of an adventure!

    Sights nearby  -  Head over to Beatrix Potter's house near Sawrey, Holehird Gardens or William Wordsworth's homes at Dove Cottage

    Great walks  -  Take a leisurely stroll through the valley or test yourself with higher fells such as Helvellyn

    Restaurant  -  Recommended.

    

    Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel, CN Traveller

    The Queen's Head is a traditional country inn with a smart but relaxed, contemporary style, close to Windermere but away from the crowds. Original features and modern craftsmanship create a bright and welcoming atmosphere plus stylish bedrooms and generous food. See More

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  • Wasdale Head Inn Wasdale Head, Cumbria 12 rooms from €138

    
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    Great walks  -  Miles from anywhere, this Inn has some of the most unspoilt walking in England.

    Views  -  All bedrooms have stunning views of Wasdale

    Climbing  -  At the foot of England's highest mountain

    Sights nearby  -  The Smallest Church in England, St Olaf's at Wasdale Head.

    

    Famous climbing inn at the head of Wasdale, spectacularly sited below Scafell Pike with magnificent views. Satisfy your stomach with hearty pub food or enjoy the finer things in the wood-panelled Dining Room. Rooms are simple but extremely comfortable and all boast breathtaking views. See More

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  • Haweswater Hotel Penrith, Cumbria 17 rooms from €103

    
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    Back to Nature  -  In a remote location overlooking Haweswater, it's perfect for a retreat to nature.

    Sights nearby  -  The Lake District is full of beautiful houses such as Askham Hall and Rydal Mount & Gardens.

    Great walks  -  Go for lovely walks around Haweswater.

    Remote  -  Off the beaten track.

    

    With a stunning location and superb service, the Haweswater Hotel is a wonderful retreat for those who are looking to escape to a quiet corner of the Lake District. Excellent, comfortable rooms, stunning views and a brasserie restaurant, all combine to create a rural gem. See More

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  • Crake Trees Manor Cumbria 6 rooms from €109

    
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    Great walks  -  The surrounding countryside is full of beautiful walking routes.

    Full of character

    Views  -  Great views from hotel

    

    Set on a delightful farm in rural Cumbria, Crake Trees Manor is a superb guesthouse. Set in a lovely stone house, the Manor offers charming rooms, delicious breakfasts and access to beautiful surrounding countryside. Perfect for a rural retreat. See More

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  • The Forest Side Grasmere (Keswick Road) 20 rooms from €229

    
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    Foodies  -  Enjoy some absolutely exquisite meals at their Michelin starred restaurant — an absolute must!

    Great walks  -  The Lake District is home to many breathtaking hiking trails

    Sailing  -  Hire a rowing boat on nearby Grasmere

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Recently renovated, The Forest Side is a romantic gothic mansion just outside Grasmere in the heart of the Lake District. Offering chic and spacious accommodation with plenty of light hues, this dog-friendly spot boasts 43 acres of superb gardens and stunning cuisine. A top-notch country retreat! See More

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  • Linthwaite House Hotel Windermere (Cumbria) 36 rooms from €230

    
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    Foodies  -  Henrock, overseen by Michelin Starred Simon Rogan offers relaxed fine dining with many ingredients sourced from his own farm

    Romantic Break  -  Take the stunning views, plush suites, two man tubs and candlelit dinners and you are guaranteed romance

    Views  -  From its elevated position Linthwaite enjoys breathtaking views over Lake Windermere and the Coniston Fells

    Private Hot Tub  -  The hot tub suite has a private enclosed verandah housing a large hot tub with a stunning lake view

    

    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Tablet, Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection, Sawdays

    Slick, stylish designs meet an intimate Edwardian country house offering all round comfort. Award winning dishes and fine wines at the restaurant. From its hilltop location over Lake Windermere and the Fells - explore The Lake District on foot, bike or horseback. Serenity at its finest! See More

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  • Holbeck Ghyll Hotel Ambleside (Cumbria) 23 rooms from €173

    
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    Total relaxation  -  Unwind in Victorian English style with pampering suites overlooking Lake Windermere, spa services and impeccable service.

    Active Holiday  -  Walkers and ramblers bring your wellies and explore this stunning part of the country.

    Great walks  -  Ask at the front desk for an outline of the wonderful walks around the lake and beyond.

    Private Hot Tub  -  Lake View Suite and Ghyll Side cottage both feature a private outdoor hot tub.

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays, Small Luxury Hotels

    One of the Lake District’s original country-house hotels, Holbeck Ghyll has stunning views over Lake Windermere and impressive Arts and Crafts architecture. Its creative food is another draw; definitely a place for indulgence. See More

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  • The Samling Hotel Ambleside 11 rooms from €254

    
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    Country Escape  -  A smart base offering access to arguably some of the UK's finest countryside.

    Foodies  -  Don't miss the tasting menu in the Samling's Michelin starred restaurant

    Active Holiday

    Sailing  -  Cruise across Lake Windermere and enjoy spectacular views.

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Michelin Travel

    A small luxury hotel boasting both chic interiors and fabulous views of Lake Windermere. Individually styled rooms are light and airy with bold colours, antiques and softly patterned fabrics. Offering exemplary cuisine and a choice selection of wines, this is a rural escape designed for indulging. See More

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  • Applegarth Villa Windermere (Cumbria) 22 rooms from €161

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Adults only hotel with a cocktail bar, huge rooms and private hot tubs

    Sights nearby  -  Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth's houses are a short drive away

    Private Hot Tub  -  All the seven suites have their own private outdoor hot tub.

    Sailing  -  A sailing trip along the iconic Lake Windemere

    

    Adults-only, boutique bolthole with high-quality, designer bedrooms, including sumptuous suites with private hot-tubs. Family-run with a relaxed atmosphere and bistro-style restaurant and bar with an expansive collection of whiskeys. A real, spoiling treat in a great location. See More

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  • Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa Cumbria 87 rooms from €150

    
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    Country Escape  -  A country house set in an outstanding location. Take long walks, have a drink by the open fire and feast on regional cuisine.

    Spa breaks  -  The Falls Spa is an extensive, luxury adults on facility that will pamper even the pickiest of guests!

    Swimming Pool  -  16m outdoor pool with neck jets, underwater loungers and overflow hot tub.

    Great walks  -  The Lake District boasts stunning walking routes.

    

    Landmark hotel with lake and fell views, spa and hydrotherapy pool, plus choice of dining options, and a smart and friendly service. Set within 40 acres of picturesque countryside it's the perfect spot for a rural escape. See More

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  • The George and Dragon Penrith, Cumbria 11 rooms from €115

    
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    Local exploring  -  A great base for exploring the Northern parts of the Lake District.

    Sights nearby  -  Go and visit the Rebel oak tree, the place where Bonnie Prince Charlie was finally defeated in 1745.

    Fishing  -  Salmon fishing on the nearby River Eden and brown trout fishing on the River Lowther.

    Great walks  -  Go for lovely walks around nearby Ullswater.

    

    Delightful gastropub with comfortable rooms that offers a great base for people staying in the Northern Lake District. Delicious food served in the restaurant and plush bedrooms make a great choice for people wanting to explore nearby landmarks such as Ullswater and Keswick. See More

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  • Sun Inn Kirkby Lonsdale 11 rooms from €114

    
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    Local exploring  -  Great base for exploring both the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District.

    Sights nearby  -  Devil’s Bridge in Kirkby Lonsdale

    Birdwatching  -  RSPB’s reserve at Leighton Moss

    Great walks  -  Ingleton Waterfalls Trail.

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Traditional town pub with comfortable rooms in a charming market town near the Lake District and the Dales. Popular with locals for its award winning menu. A great base for serious walking, but need a car. Dog friendly with lots of outdoor activities on offer in the surrounding area. See More

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  • The Black Bull, Sedbergh Cumbria 18 rooms from €114

    
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    Country Escape  -  A country inn with good food and surrounded by fabulous walking country

    Sights nearby  -  Local attractions include Abbot Hall Art Gallery, Kendal, and Sizergh Castle

    Great walks  -  From the doorstep onto the Howgill Fells, or in Yorkshire Dales

    Restaurant  -  Recommended.

    

    A smart market-town, coaching-inn with quietly classy food and a modern, relaxed style that retains a traditional pub feel but subtly updated. Calm and welcoming rather than pretentious, and only minutes from the M6 motorway. See More

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  • The Royal Oak, Keswick Keswick 18 rooms from €135

    
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    Local exploring  -  A great base for exploring Keswick and the surrounding Lake District.

    Sights nearby  -  Keswick Pencil Museum; Castlerigg Stone Circle, The Lakes Distillery at head of Bassenthwaite Lake

    Great walks  -  The surrounding countryside is full of wonderful walking routes.

    Restaurant  -  Recommended.

    

    A dog-friendly historic inn in a plum position in the centre of Keswick, one of the Lake District’s friendliest market towns. Carefully modernised so as not to lose its original charm, the bedrooms are cosy while the food is just the ticket for a day on the fells. See More

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  • Lindeth Howe Windermere (Lindeth Drive) 34 rooms from €128

    
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    Country Escape  -  A cosy rural property surrounded by some of the UK's finest walking country.

    Great walks  -  The hotel organises guided tours of the Lake District National Park.

    Restaurant  -  AA 2 rosette restaurant

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    

    Overlooking Lake Windermere, this handsome Victorian mansion, once owned by Beatrix Potter, has a bold contemporary style in its public rooms while bedrooms are calm and restful. With beautiful gardens, it makes a peaceful retreat yet is strolling distance from the lake. See More

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  • Lancrigg Grasmere 10 rooms from €167

    
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    Country Escape  -  A quiet spot ideal for walking enthusiasts or those wanting to simply unwind.

    Great walks  -  Take scenic walks around Grasmere and Rydal Water.

    Whirlpool Bathtub  -  The Dickens room comes with whirlpool bathtub

    Sailing  -  Take a cruise on the iconic Lake Windermere.

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Set in beautiful and peaceful grounds, with stunning fell views, yet only 15 minutes from Grasmere, this small country-house hotel has a relaxed and contemporary style plus excellent food. See More

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  • Rothay Manor Ambleside 19 rooms from €161

    
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    Country Escape  -  Set in pretty woodlands and boasting easy access to Cumbria's fabulous walking country.

    Sights nearby  -  Visit 'Hill Top', Beatrix Potter’s former home, situated near Hawkshead.

    Sailing  -  Learn to sail on Lake Windermere, just a short stroll from the property.

    Boutique

    

    Privately owned, elegant country-house-style hotel with a modern freshness and a highly regarded restaurant. Bedrooms are large and understated while there are lawned gardens for lazy afternoons. See More

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  • The Crown Inn at Pooley Bridge Cumbria 17 rooms from €121

    
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    Local exploring  -  A great base for exploring the stunning Lake District

    Great walks  -  For a challenging hike head up Helvellyn mountain, or for a gentler walk start off in Thirlmere

    Local markets  -  Head to Penrith, once the capital of Cumbria, and explore its traditional shops and arcades

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the ruins of Penrith Castle

    

    17th century coaching inn situated in a charming village by Ullswater Lake. Expect a friendly atmosphere and a great beer garden with gorgeous views. Smart rooms are cosy and comfortable, some featuring statement walls or matching furnishings. An easygoing base for exploring the stunning region. See More

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  • The Halston Carlisle (Cumbria) 22 rooms from €161

    
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    Foodies  -  Foodies will love the range of restaurants, cafés and bars at this hotel. The tapas at Penny Blue is paticularly good

    City Style  -  Located in a celebrated Edwardian property in the centre of Carlisle, this hotel has lots of chic city style

    Weddings  -  The Halston makes a picturesque setting for a wedding; enquire with the hotel for wedding packages

    Kayaking  -  For an adrenaline-filled day out, go kayaking on the River Eden; enquire at reception for local providers

    

    Housed in a landmark Edwardian property, this period hotel offers luxury apartments in the heart of Carlisle. Interiors are dressed in a pastel palette and feature boutique wallpaper, cosy rugs and rich linens, plus self-catering facilities. Dine at the gourmet restaurant. A chic heritage stay. See More

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Written by Helen Pickles

posted Tuesday, 1st October 2019