Why a dog-friendly holiday might be the wellbeing boost you need
For International Dog Day on 26 August we’re spotlighting some of the UK’s best dog-friendly stays to help you switch off – for your health, happiness and hound
Getting ready for your holiday is supposed to an exciting time, where you dream of climates warmer and are poised for full-time relaxation.
The reality is, however, that it can be anything but.
Research from Vitality shows that almost three quarters of Brits (73%) suffer from stress and anxiety in the run-up to a holiday; causing sleepless nights and low moods. [1]
And in some cases, that pre-holiday stress stays with them even after they’ve zipped up their suitcase.
38% said they feel so run down by the time their annual leave starts that they can’t enjoy it as much as they’d like. [2]
Couple that with almost half of Brits checking emails and messages it’s no wonder we’re struggling to switch off. [3]
So, what’s the answer? This International Dog Day, we’re spotlighting a potential solution: travel with your dog.
Dog-friendly hotels and huts alike offer more than just convenience, they encourage slower and more mindful experiences; whether that’s long walks in the countryside or cosy evenings in.
Below, we’ve listed some of the UK’s best dog-friendly hotels for you and your pooch, as listed by Vitality partner, Mr & Mrs Smith.
Whether that’s retreating to a treehouse in the Peak District or enjoying a cottage in the Cotswolds, there’s something for everyone.
Go on, do something for your health, your happiness and – more importantly – your hound.
1. The Forest Cottages and Cabins at Lime Wood, New Forest
You and your pooch can expect the royal treatment at this former 13th century hunting lodge, which now has owners of a more regal nature.
The Forest Cottages & Cabins are your canine-accommodating abodes, complete with sofas for snuggling in and a meadow-side setting to boot.
Price per pet: £30 a night
2. The Lodges at Bovey Castle, Devon
This grand residence in the eastern tors of Devon’s Dartmoor National Park is the perfect place for pups to prance and play, thanks to 275- acres of grounds.
If it should so take them, they may even bed-down in the fire-warmed main house – but they’ll feel most at home in the wooded lodges.
Price per pet: £25 a night
3. The Cottages at Newhall Mains, Scotland
With a long history of hosting man’s best friend, you and your pooch are very welcome to two free-standing cottages – Irene and Red Gates – on the Highlands-set Black Isle Newhall Mains.
Let them take advantage of the windows to seats to safely survey the roaming livestock.
Price per pet: £15 a night
4. Three Mile Beach, Cornwall
Set along the shores of Cornwall’s St Ives Bay, each beach house gives a nod to its coastal setting. Gated gardens for off-lead frolicking are in company of bowls, beds and firesides – perfect for snoozing.
Hounds will be kept happy along the networks of national park trails on this beach-side haven.
5. Gardener’s Cottage at Thyme, Cotswolds
Packed with trad Cotswolds essentials, this 17th-century house is packed with regional charm to please the most pampered of pooches.
The essentials of log-burning fires and sink-in sofas are on-had to make it the perfect stay, while welcoming taps and tummy rubs are available at The Swan pub and Baa Bar.
Price per pet: £50 a night
6. The Treehouses at Wildhive Callow Hall, Peak District
Renowned for its proximity to the Peak District, each of the Treehouses on the Wildhive Callow Hall estate, which appear to float in the canopy, are the perfect playground for you and your pup.
The stilted space is the perfect combination of style and sustainability and are situated in 35 acres of ground – perfect for sniffing!
Price per pet: £30 for full stay
7. Rest + Wile Shropshire Hills, Shropshire
Feel like going off grid? This collection of cabins on the Downton Hall Estate provide the perfect hideaway for you and your hound.
The converted huts are a cosy set-up with plenty of outdoor pursuits to soak up the setting, from a fire pit to free-standing tub.
Price per pet: £25 a night
This article was originally published via Vitality partner Mr & Mrs Smith here. Prices correct as of August 2025.
[1]Vitality research, 2025
[2]Vitality research, 2025
[3] Vitality research, 2025
Related: 9 of the best UK solo retreats you won’t regret booking
As a Vitality member, you could get up to 25% off luxury and boutique hotels with Mr & Mrs Smith.
Available with qualifying health insurance and life insurance plans with a spend cap, terms and conditions apply.
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