Winter is a great time to escape with your four-legged friend not only can you get some fantastic deals but there is nothing better than snuggling up together in front of a toasty log burner in a cosy cottage after a long walk. Enjoy frosty strolls through magical woodland or wrap up warm and head for the beach which is likely to have few visitors making it the ideal place for a game of fetch.
A short winter break is the ideal way to spend quality time with your furry friend and recharge your batteries, Dog Friendly Getaways reveal some of the best winter destinations in the UK that both you and your pooch will love!
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Cairngorms National Park
Visiting the Cairngorms with your dog during the winter months gives you the opportunity to experience this magical winter wonderland at its most peaceful and there is still plenty to do. Explore pretty villages, and marvel at the scenic landscapes – a photographer’s dream. There is a wealth of wildlife to spot in the winter including deer, red squirrels, badgers and even Scottish wildcat and Golden Eagle if you’re lucky. Take a trip on the Strathspey Railway with your best friend at your heels or visit the ruins of Drumin Castle at Glenlivet just remember to wrap up warm.
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Dorset
If you don’t like the cold and snow, a good place to enjoy a winter break is in one of Dog Friendly Getaways delightful seaside properties on the Dorset coastline. It boasts some of the most mile weather in the UK and there are more countryside walks than you can shake a stick at you will never be stuck for something to do no matter what the weather. Walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs along the Jurassic coast or get up close and personal with them at the Dinosaur Museum in Dorchester (winter opening times – Daily 10.00am – 4.00pm) Visit one of the UK’s most iconic landmarks; Durdle Door or head to the National Trust’s Corfe Castle which boasts breath-taking views and is open all year round.
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The Lake District
Well worth braving the chill; the Lake District is a great choice for a winter break with your pet. The scenery is just as dramatic during the cooler months and you have the bonus of avoiding the crowds which flock there every summer. There is plenty to do with your canine companion not least the hundreds of miles of scenic walks and lake cruises which allow pets and are open all year round. Add to that dozens of welcoming country inns where you can warm up in front of a roaring open fire while your tired pooch enjoys forty winks at your heels.
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Cornwall
Winter is a special time to visit Cornwall where you will experience peace and tranquillity not normally found in the warmer months. The crashing waves and mid-winter sun make coastal walks a delight and there are plenty of cafés and pubs in the pretty fishing villages and bustling market towns which offer a warm welcome to dogs whatever the time of year. Why not take a trip back in time on the Bodmin and Wenford Railway where dogs are allowed on the vintage steam train for just £1, visit the Tamar Valley Donkey Park where well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome or if its raining explore the Newlyn Art Gallery in Penzance together.
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The Peak District
Arguably at its scenic best during the winter months the Peak District is a photographer’s dream as well as a doggie paradise. Picture snow-capped hills, frost covered rocks, the magical atmosphere as the sun shrouds everything in golden hues. Of course, your pooch will want to do more than just admire the stunning scenery and the good news is; you will be spoilt for choice here. Visit the Heights of Abraham, dogs are allowed in the cable cars (not in the café or caves) and there are some terrific walks nearby or head to the Crich Tramway Museum where you can both enjoy a tram ride.
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Wales
The ideal destination for some winter fun with your pet. Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons are even more magnificent with a dusting of snow and the seemingly endless walks will definitely get Fido’s bar of approval. Blow away the cobwebs with an exhilarating walk around the Gower Peninsula and watch the waves crash against the shore at Rhossili beach which is dog friendly all year round. Explore fairy-tale castles, take a ride on a steam train or visit the National Slate Museum and after all that exercise you will be pleased to learn there are plenty of canine welcoming country inns where your best friend can curl up in front of an open fire while you enjoy a well-deserved drink.
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Yorkshire
Winter festivals, cosy pubs with roaring open fires and hearty food plus spectacular scenery make Yorkshire a popular choice for pet-friendly winter breaks. This huge county offers the best of both worlds; miles of pristine beaches at resorts such as Scarborough, Whitby and Filey ideal for a game of fetch and a paddle if it’s not too cold. Plus, wild unspoilt moorland to explore and a host of dog friendly attractions. Step in the footsteps of the Bronte sisters, visit Whitby Abbey the inspiration for Dracula or stroll along through the elegant spa town of Harrogate. Whatever your pleasure you are guaranteed to find it here.
Don’t hibernate during the winter wrap up warm and head to one of these fantastic holiday destinations with your pet. Blow away those cobwebs with a brisk morning walk and recharge your batteries whilst spending quality time with your best friend. You will avoid the summer crowds and get a great deal too so it’s a win win! Remember though bad weather can make hiking difficult and potentially dangerous Look after your pup’s paws, dry thoroughly after walks and check for snow or ice between the toes, make sure you pack the right clothing and equipment and check the weather forecast.
