It’s a Dog’s Life
We’re a team of dog lovers at Crabtree & Crabtree, so we know just how much joy your pup’s fun and frolics can bring you on holiday.
We offer an abundance of dog-friendly retreats with something to suit all canine personalities – from the ball of limitless energy who dreams of sprinting along sweeping beaches to the dog who loves a gentle potter in the village before curling up by the fire. We’ve rounded up some of our favourites with your pet’s idea of heaven in mind, so you can treat yourselves to a special holiday which will truly get their tails wagging.
Big Get-Togethers
With acres of space and a plethora of dog-friendly activities on offer, these properties are perfect for gatherings of large groups and their extroverted four-legged friends. From the agility course at Milne Graden to the swathes of land to explore at Fairnilee House, there’s plenty to keep both pups and their owners occupied.
Milne Graden Estate, Scottish Borders
Home to eight impeccably designed cottages and its very own ‘Tails of the Tweed’ dog park, the Milne Graden Estate is often a top choice for dog owners. The dog park is a safe-off-the-lead space for your pooches to exercise, socialise and practice agility on an exciting obstacle course. Walks around the estate and the surrounding area are equally wonderful – you can take your dog(s) for a peaceful riverside stroll, a longer hike in the Northumberland National Park or Cheviot Hills. The coastline is also eight miles away if your pooch prefers a swim. West Lodge and North Lodge are perfect for a romantic couple’s retreat, while School House and Hamilton House are ideal for families. Head over to the Milne Graden Estate page on our website to browse the full collection.
Papple Steading, East Lothian
Papple Steading is a picturesque setting for a dog-friendly get-together. Set at the foot of the Lammermuir Hills, guests have exclusive use of six acres of lawns, paddock and woodland. The wider grounds include a wildflower meadow and eighteen acres of ancient woodland with sights and smells galore for an adventurous pup to investigate. The coastline is also within easy reach for walks, including the spectacular Gullane and Tyninghame Beaches, with ample opportunities for revelling in dunes and waves. Should you wish to travel in a smaller group, the cottages and bothies on the estate can be taken separately – and each welcomes dogs.
Fairnilee House, Scottish Borders
The spectacular dog-friendly mansion of Fairnilee House is surrounded by 380 acres of land in an area full of lush forests and meandering trails. Endless games of fetch can be played in the enclosed walled garden as well as the sprawling parkland with woodland beyond. The Southern Upland Way runs through the middle of the estate and provides access to long hikes from your doorstep, while the banks of the Tweed are just a short stroll away so your dog can also enjoy a refreshing dip in the river.
By the Water
Some dogs would spend all day in the water if they could, finding endless fun splashing about in the sea spray and paddling across rivers. The sandy beaches along the Northumberland coast are particularly inviting and most nearby pubs and cafes welcome four-legged friends. We have a fabulous array of dog-friendly properties dotted along the area’s best stretches of coastline and river – making them the dream holiday spots for water-loving pups!
Grey Barns, Northumberland
With an enclosed garden that leads directly down to the beach, Grey Barns is a great choice for a fun-filled coastal escape. The gate at the bottom of the garden leads to the six miles of pristine white sands that make up Alnmouth Bay, plus the property has its own pretty beach hut which is ideal for storing sandy toys and towels. The beautiful Warkworth Beach is also nearby, so sea-loving dogs will truly be living the dream.
Cambridge House, Holy Island, Northumberland
Set in the quaint village of Lindisfarne on Holy Island, the charming Cambridge House offers true escapism. Cut off from the mainland by twice daily tides, you can enjoy roaming the island free from the crowds when the tides are in your favour. From the stunning Holy Island Beach to the south and Coves Haven and North Shore to the north, there’s lots to explore. Dogs are also allowed in the grounds of Lindisfarne Castle (on leads) with paths that lead you to the delightful Getrude Jekyll Garden and the east shore of the island.
The Boathouse, Northumberland
Nestled in a picturesque position on the banks of the River Tweed, The Boathouse is a tranquil spot for fishing alongside four-legged companions. Your dog will enjoy going for refreshing swims in the river and strolls along its banks before warming up indoors by the toasty open fire. Less than a mile away, the village of Norham is home to The Mason’s Arms which welcomes dogs in its bar, snug and beer garden.
Hitting the Trails
With easy access to walking routes through picturesque hills, moors and valleys, these properties offer endless opportunities for your pup to blow away the cobwebs. Set in dramatic countryside with some of the best trails in the country, they are perfect for ambitious hikers and their adventurous companions.
Rose Cottage, Yorkshire
With the scenic Yorkshire Wolds Way and The Chalkland Way on your doorstep, Rose Cottage is perfectly placed for rejuvenating country rambles. Replenish your energy after a day spent outdoors at the dog-friendly Wolds Inn in the village – said to be the highest pub in the Yorkshire Wolds – before returning to the cottage where your pooch can unwind in the pretty enclosed garden or curl up beside the log burner.
Fell End, Northumberland
Just half a kilometre from the Hadrian’s Wall Path, the flamboyantly decorated Fell End is ideal for family get-togethers filled with oodles of fresh air and countryside rambles. An enclosed courtyard and grassy paddock give dogs the room to safely play, while a large hot tub is on hand for you to rest your legs after a day in the hills. This is a walker’s paradise with the intersection of the Hadrian’s Wall Path and the Pennine Way nearby, so you’ll be spoilt for choice of which route to tackle next!
The Sheep Cote, Pentland Hills, Midlothian
Surrounded by the dramatic landscape of the Pentland Hills, The Sheep Cote is the perfect hub for a holiday spent traversing the trails. The Pentland Way passes through the nearby village of Nine Mile Burn and numerous loops and ambitious routes lie within easy reach, including a beautiful circular route from Monks Rig to West Kip Hill which promises breathtaking views.
Strolls & Snoozes
For dogs whose idea of a paw-fect day involves a leisurely amble followed by a snooze in front of a fire, these properties provide the luxury environment for a restful escape. You’ll love whiling away the days together at idyllic picnic spots and cosy pubs before returning to the comfort of your cosy home-from-home.
Head Gardener’s House at Floors Castle, Scottish Borders
The dream escape for pups fond of a calm evening promenade, guests and their dogs (on leads) have the Walled Garden at Floors Castle all to themselves after hours when staying at Head Gardener’s House. There are further amazing walks through the rest of the Castle estate and The Terrace Café welcomes dogs for alfresco dining too. For a longer walk, head down to the River Tweed for a stroll along its banks.
Aydon Castle Cottage, Northumberland
Opposite historic ruins, the cosy Aydon Castle Cottage and its enclosed lawned garden make for a soothing holiday with your dogs. Enjoy pootling around the castle ruins with your pups (on leads) and a picnic together in its walled orchard, before heading into the village to visit one its many dog-friendly pubs or simply relax by the cottage’s toasty wood burning stove.
Lakeside Cottage, Alice, Northumberland
Quirky Lakeside Cottage, Alice on the Capheaton Estate provides an enclosed garden, cosy log burner and a wide range of walks. The estate’s woodland, walled gardens and landscaped parkland leading down to a large lake are all on your doorstep, offering everything from a gentle meander to a longer leg-stretch. The nearby Capheaton Village Tearoom is open at weekends and welcomes four-legged friends, perfect for relaxing with a pot of tea and delicious homemade cakes – you’ll deserve it after all that walking!
Still Looking?
Not quite found the perfect place for you and your pup? With over 270 dog-friendly cottages to choose from you and your hound are spoilt for choice. Browse our dog-friendly cottages collection to find your perfect match, or give our friendly bookings team a call on 01573 226711 if you have something specific in mind – we’d be delighted to help.
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