Wales is a fantastic destination for dog-friendly holidays. Its stunning landscapes, including mountains, forests, and beautiful coastlines, allow you and your furry friends to explore the great outdoors. Many accommodations, from cosy cottages to boutique hotels, cater to dogs, and numerous pubs and cafes extend a warm welcome. With vast national parks, scenic trails, and dog-friendly beaches, Wales offers an array of experiences for you and your dogs to enjoy together, making it an ideal choice for a dog-friendly getaway.
Here’s your guide to a dog-friendly vacation in Wales.
The Best Time to Visit Wales
For a delightful visit to Wales with your dog, aim for April to June and September to October, with milder weather and the scenic splendour of spring and autumn. When you visit during these times, you’ll enjoy moderate temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning landscapes, with blooming flowers in spring and colourful foliage in autumn.
Summer is also a viable option, but expect attractions to be crowded and possibly hotter weather. Winter, with colder temperatures and shorter days, is less appealing. Yet, the festive season offers delightful events for you and your furry companion to enjoy together.
Factor in your dog’s unique needs when planning your visit, including weather tolerance and activity level. That way, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip for you and your furry companion.
The Best Places to Stay in Wales
When looking for the best places to stay in Wales, you’ll find numerous options that warmly welcome dogs. But to ensure a seamless experience, contact them in advance to confirm their pet-friendly policies. Here are some recommended places:
- Campgrounds – Wales is an excellent place for camping with your dogs, offering diverse landscapes, from stunning coastlines to majestic mountains. Camping allows for outdoor adventures and bonding experiences in nature, with many campgrounds in Wales welcoming pets.
- Large group accommodations – going away with a big group of friends with all their furry pals in tow? Book to stay in spacious holiday homes or cabins that welcome pets, ensuring everyone has plenty of room to relax and enjoy the getaway together.
- Self-catering cottages – consider renting a dog-friendly cottage or holiday home, which offers flexibility and space for you and your dog to relax. In addition, many of these properties in Wales have enclosed gardens for your pet to play and run around.
- Farm Stays – a unique way to enjoy a holiday with your furry friend is to stay at farm stays. Staying on a working farm with your dog allows you to enjoy countryside walks and breathe fresh air. These farms have unique and pet-friendly accommodations, such as farm cottages or converted barns.
- Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs) – some B&Bs in Wales accommodate dogs, providing a cosy and welcoming atmosphere for you and your furry friend to relax after a day of exploring outdoors.
The Best Things to Do in Wales
When planning a dog-friendly vacation in Wales, it’s essential to plan activities to ensure a memorable experience for you and your furry companion. Luckily, Wales offers a wealth of opportunities for bonding and play. Here are some suggestions:
- Coastal Walks – explore Wales’ breathtaking coastline with your dog, enjoying scenic walks along the Wales Coast Path or visiting dog-friendly beaches like Rhossili Bay in the Gower Peninsula.
- Canal Walks – wander along the picturesque canal paths of Wales, such as the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal or the Llangollen Canal, offering peaceful walks with your dog amid scenic views.
- Rail Trips – consider a picturesque rail break. Experience the breathtaking vistas of the coastline one moment, then immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the rolling Welsh hills the next.
- Visiting Gardens – explore Wales’ beautiful gardens, such as Bodnant Garden or Aberglasney Gardens, where leashed dogs are often welcome to accompany their owners on garden walks.
- Exploring National Parks – spend time in Wales’ national parks, including Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons, where you and your dog can enjoy vast open spaces, tranquil lakes, and challenging hikes.
- Visiting Castles – discover Wales’ rich history by visiting dog-friendly castles like Caernarfon Castle or Conwy Castle, where leashed dogs can explore the grounds.
- Mountain Hikes – embark on adventurous hikes in the Welsh mountains, such as Snowdonia or the Brecon Beacons, where your dog can accompany you on scenic trails with stunning views.
- Pub Visits – enjoy a traditional Welsh pub experience with your dog by visiting dog-friendly pubs across Wales, where you can relax and unwind after a day of exploration.
The Best Places to Visit in Wales
Many places in Wales allow dogs on their premises, which is why it’s one of the UK’s most dog-friendly destinations. If you need ideas on where to take your pet, here are the best places to visit in Wales.
- Pembrokeshire Coast National Park – explore miles of coastal paths and dog-friendly beaches, including Barafundle Bay and Whitesands Bay, offering stunning views and opportunities for seaside adventures with your dog.
- Snowdonia National Park – embark on scenic hikes in the mountains of Snowdonia, with trails like the Llanberis Path and the Miner’s Track offering breathtaking views and plenty of space for your dog to roam.
- Brecon Beacons National Park – discover the rugged beauty of the Brecon Beacons, where you can enjoy walks along the Taff Trail or explore waterfalls like Sgwd yr Eira with your furry friend beside you.
- Dog-Friendly Castles – visit historic castles such as Caernarfon Castle and Conwy Castle, where leashed dogs are welcome to explore the grounds and soak up the medieval atmosphere.
- Gower Peninsula – wander through picturesque villages and into the Wales Coast Path in the Gower Peninsula, with dog-friendly beaches like Rhossili Bay and Three Cliffs Bay offering opportunities for coastal walks and beach fun.
What to Pack for a Trip to Wales
Here’s what to pack for your dog-friendly trip to Wales:
- Weather-appropriate clothing – pack layers and waterproof outerwear, as Wales’ weather can be unpredictable, especially in mountainous areas.
- Sturdy Footwear – bring comfortable walking shoes or boots for exploring Wales’ rugged terrain, whether hiking in the mountains or strolling along coastal paths.
- Map or Navigation Device -ensure you have a reliable map or navigation device to help you navigate Wales’ winding roads and scenic trails.
- Reusable Water Bottle -stay hydrated during your adventures by bringing a refillable water bottle, especially when hiking outdoors.
- Dog Essentials – don’t forget to pack items for your furry friend, including leash, collar with ID tags, food, water, bowls, poop bags, and any necessary medications or comfort items.
- Travel Documents – remember to bring any necessary documents, such as identification, reservations, and travel insurance information, for a smooth trip to Wales.
