When your dog is a member of the family it can be difficult to say goodbye to them when you head off on holiday. However, when you find somewhere that offers dog-friendly accommodation, attractions, and travel options like Scotland does, there’s no reason to leave them behind.
Here, we share the reasons why dog-friendly holidays in Scotland are such a great choice for those wanting to take a trip with their four-legged friend.
Dog-friendly attractions in Scotland
There are lots of lovely attractions across Scotland, and many are happy to open their doors to dogs. You’ll find that a number of castles and gardens are accessible to dogs, so you don’t have to miss out on immersing yourself in Scottish heritage and culture during your trip. We suggest simply checking the websites of any attractions you’d like to visit for more details.
You’ll also be pleased to know that lots of cafés, restaurants, and pubs in both Scotland’s biggest cities and rural areas are dog-friendly. This means that your pet can join you when you go out for a drink or meal, and will be provided with water and possibly a treat or two.
If you’re heading to Edinburgh during your trip you’ll be delighted at the options available to you and your dog. Soak up some art and culture at Summerhall, a multi-arts complex and home to everything from music and theatre to workshops and festivals. With a number of resident dogs that belong to staff members, your furry friend is certainly welcome here too. You’ll also be able to take your pup into a number of the city’s shops, including ‘Those were the Days Vintage’, ‘Gifted’, and ‘Tippi Antiques’.
Dog walks in Scotland
One of the best things about dog-friendly holidays in Scotland is that there are so many different types of landscape to discover. From charming woodland and rolling hills to quiet beaches and stunning national parks, you and your dog will have plenty to explore. In fact, you can walk your dog pretty much anywhere in Scotland providing that you stick to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, giving you the freedom to enjoy all that the country has to offer.
For the most beautiful dog walks, head to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Located just 2 and a half hours from Cairnryan port by car, Scotland’s first national park boasts the biggest loch in Britain, and stunning walks through a choice of flat green landscapes or rocky peaks. Don’t forget to look up during your visit here, as the park is home to a number of birds of prey too.
Travel by car for just over 3 hours from Cairnryan port once you’ve disembarked your ferry to Scotland, or take a 45 minute drive from Edinburgh, and you can find yourself at Tyninghame Bay. This destination is particularly great for dogs as it combines woodland with the beach, giving them two great areas to run around. Park up at the Tyninghame Links car park and head through the old pine forest until you reach the stretches of sand dunes. Tyninghame Beach is cited as being one of the nicest in southern Scotland, and if you visit during the colder months you might find that you and your pup are the only ones there!
Dog-friendly accommodation in Scotland
There’s plenty of dog-friendly accommodation available in Scotland. We love the huge selection offered by Cottages.com which includes everything from coastal properties and luxury getaways to those with nearby pubs or their own hot tub!
With plenty of accommodation options offering free stays for pets and enclosed gardens, you’ll also find ‘more than dog friendly’ cottages and lodges which boast these features plus some extra special treats for your dog too. Keep an eye out for facilities like wood burners or games rooms which could make your stay more enjoyable too.
Before you book your dog-friendly accommodation, research the surrounding area to ensure that there are plenty of nice walking options and dog-friendly eateries nearby. You might also want to think about some of the items you’ll need to take with you. This could include your dog’s bed, blanket, toys, and food bowls, but don’t worry – when you sail with us you can bring as much luggage as you need for you and your pet!
Travelling with your dog by ferry
Your dog is welcome on board our Larne to Cairnryan ferries, and because you’ll be staying within the UK they won’t need a pet passport. Your pet will need to stay in your car during the 2 hour crossing, but you can go and visit them at any time if you speak to a member of staff who will be able to assist you.
If it’s the first time you’ll be travelling with your pet, we suggest choosing a night crossing which will give them the opportunity to sleep during the sailing. Leave their bedding and toys in the car with them to make them feel comfortable and entertained, and try to schedule in a walk before you enter the port so that they can stretch their legs.
Now that you know how great dog-friendly holidays in Scotland can be, book your trip across the Irish Sea with us and discover all that this beautiful country has to offer.
