Ten of our favourite dog-friendly pubs in winter
2nd December, 5 minute read
The Litton, Somerset
The Litton is a real gem, where owner Sally and her team make everyone feel right at home. Tuck yourself into a corner beside the wood burner and order a Welsh rarebit– or grab a Moroccan blanket and an armful of cushions and head for the riverside terrace where there are fire pits to warm you. For Humans, the food is pretty special and for the dogs, there are treats water bowls and beds for those who decide to stay over.
The Masons Arms, Oxfordshire
This is a cool take on a country pub from the Artist Residence team. You’ll find vintage wallpapers, vivid colours, country rugs and a dog warming fire burning on both sides in the bar. On sunny days, head out to the garden or terrace and tuck into Dorset crab with sorrel sauce or perhaps local venison with rainbow chard, or maybe a pie and pint at the bar. Pooches will be spoilt with Lily’s Kitchen treats, and miles of woodland walks from the front door.
The Elephant at Pangbourne, Berkshire
In the centre of Pangbourne, The Elephant is a stroll to the lovely gift shops and the Thames. Taking long walks along it with the dog, they’re also welcome to explore the garden back at the hotel. Tails will be wagging for those that stay the night, as they're treated to a tennis ball, Lily’s Kitchen treats and a comfy dog bed. If you're visiting just for a drink or meal, dogs are welcome in all areas, other than the restaurant. Eat in the BaBar Bar, where owners can indulge in afternoon tea, sharing plates and salads – and there are over 50 gins!
The Cow at Dalbury Lees
The Cow is a smart and stylish pub that's ready to welcome the whole family. You’re in Derbyshire’s Golden Triangle so take time to admire the little villages and vast views. Dogs are spoiled with treats on the bar, dog bowls dotted all around and roaring log fires. If you decide to stay overnight, there are sparkling bedrooms where you and your pet will feel extra luxurious!
Crown & Anchor, Wiltshire
Retreat from life and feel completely relaxed here by the brilliant team and excellent food. The creative kitchen team do good things with fish, pheasant and venison - all local produce. The menu is varied so tuck into pub classics or something more elaborate if you're feeling fancy. Make sure you bring your boots too and head out for a stomp - there are walks straight from the door. Once you've blown the cobwebs away settle down in front of the roaring wood-burner with the dog snoring at your feet.
The Cat, Sussex
We know what you're thinking - dog lovers wouldn’t normally visit a pub named The Cat, but in this case, you won’t be disappointed. The 16th-century building has been renovated without losing its character. Inside are beamed ceilings, planked floors and an airy room that leads to a dog friendly garden at the back. Whilst upstairs you will find four bright rooms if you fancy extending your trip for longer. Human food is top notch and dogs are catered for with plenty of biscuits and towels for muddy paws.
The Duncombe Arms, Staffordshire
This pub has just the right balance of old and new charm. Walk from the door to The Weaver Hills, or go a little further into the Peak District for breath-taking trails. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head back for a homemade ale on tap whilst the take takes a snooze near the fire - there are dog beds provided. There's a top team in the kitchen, headed by Gary Auld, so you can expect platefuls of flavoursome food with a Modern British twist.
Rose & Crown, Durham
Sitting peacefully in the north Pennines, the Rose & Crown dates back to 1733 and stands right on the village green. Grab a pint of local ale, then warm up by the fire in the wonderfully old-school bar – there are sheepskin rugs for pooches to lie on. Yours might even make it on to the Dogs Hall of Fame on their website!
The Felin Fach Griffin, Powys, Wales
Quirky, homespun and colourful: it feel like you’re hanging out in the home of a fashionable friend, with art splashed on the walls and bedrooms decked out in antiques. Bring four-legged friends to run around the beer garden, the friendly staff will spoil them with treats, blankets and even towels. They take food and drink seriously here and most of what you eat comes from a half-acre kitchen garden, with meat and game from the hills around.
The Meikleour Arms, Meikleour, Scotland
With their own ale, over fifty malts and a plethora of artisan gins, you’ll find a toast for every occasion at this unique country inn. Dogs are welcome throughout, with treats on the bar, bowls of water and a hose outside for muddy paws. The local walk along the riverbank and through Meikleour Woods is a favourite with families and if you want to stay a little longer the bedrooms are very elegant.