Sniffing out the UK's top pet-friendly hotels

These days, it’s unthinkable to go on a holiday without our furry companions. In fact, two out of five Brits nowadays take their pets on holiday with family, and almost half of us miss our four-legged loved ones while vacationing without them. It seems that, compared to a decade ago, it’s actually more cost-effective and hassle-free to take Muffins on a holiday rather than to leave her behind. Temporary pet care centres charge exorbitant fees and there’s no guarantee that your pet will be well taken care of.

On the other hand, it has become much easier to find affordable and pet-friendly airlines and hotels in Britain. It really does take a load off the back to think that there’s an understanding hotel somewhere to accommodate the kids, grandparents and Dalmatian on that much-awaited family getaway to the countryside. Just like with all other things, you’d want to take your pet to the best hotel out there, not some shabby place without enough space to even wag a tail. So here’s our roundup of best pet-friendly hotels in the UK:

Luton Hoo, Bedfordshire

The quintessential English country house with dazzling landscaped gardens has found itself back in the news for offering luxurious dog-friendly weekend packages. Rooms come with dog beds, pet towels, squeaky toys and a good amount of treats. The five-star hotel also provides doggy-bags for outdoor strolls on their 1,065-acre grounds. Furry friends get special dinners while human companions can dine in style at a swanky marble restaurant. There’s a deluxe spa, too.

Warkworth House Hotel

Pet friendliness is the forte of this charming, family-run hotel in Northumberland. The entire first floor is dedicated to guests with furry friends. Their exquisite rooms can accommodate up to two pets, and the hotel only charges a measly £10 cleaning fee. In the immediate vicinity, there’s a magnificent historical castle and endless acres of stunning English countryside for you and your pet to enjoy. The hotel’s bar welcomes furry companions, and the nearby Warkworth Beach is dog-friendly as well.

The Montpelier Chapter, Cheltenham

Your pooch can stay with you in a posh room for no extra charge at this utterly captivating boutique resort. Amenities at rooms include doggie beds, towels, food bowls and blankets. Dogs are welcome in all public areas of the hotel, accompanied by a human, of course. While the humans can enjoy cocktails and scrumptious light meals at the bar, dogs can enjoy low-fat treats. And the cherry on top of this cake? Close to the hotel is the Cotswold Water Park that has its own doggie swimming beach.

The Lugger, Cornwall

Enjoy a memorable beach escape with your beloved pets at this atmospheric retreat. Situated right by the waterfront at the village of Portloe, the hotel offers excellent seafood and a beach for pets. Dogs can safely paddle among the incoming waves here and afterwards relax on the hotel’s spacious terrace. Overnights include breakfast, bean bags and a doggie beach ball.
When booking, don’t forget to call in advance and explicitly let the hotel know that you are bringing your pet. If it’s the first holiday for your pet, take a toy or a moveable bed that will be familiar to your furry companion in a strange place.