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There are few better places in the world to travel with your dog than Scotland. With the right to walk, there are almost endless hiking opportunities, whether in the high mountains of the Cairngorms or the Nevis Ranges or along the steep coastlines of the country’s remote and wild islands.
Best Dog-friendly Holidays Scotland
While the Scottish Highlands rightly attract crowds thanks to its utterly stunning scenery that rivals Mordor for excitement, there are also some fantastic dog-friendly holiday options available across the country. Ayrshire has one of Scotland’s most underrated coastlines, so head here to see some beautiful beaches; Edinburgh is a surprisingly dog-friendly city and has family-oriented attractions that also allow dogs inside. The food is well-kept, the dog-friendly hotels are Michelin-starred and offer truly spectacular tasting menus, and the Highland Castle has a romance that even the dog will be happy about.
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An exclusive dog-friendly hotel, Mingar Castle is a 13th-century coastal fortress that has been the scene of Viking raids, royal visits and military battles of all kinds over the centuries. Luckily, things are a little more relaxed these days, and the only intruders are tourists (and their dogs) who come for the peaceful, romantic view of the ocean. Dogs are allowed to roam freely on the castle grounds and the nearby pebbly beach, and people can enjoy the six-course tasting menu offered at the restaurant.
How often do you dine on an incredibly well-prepared and creative tasting menu while your dog dozes at your feet? If you stay at Lovat you can do this every night. Located in Fort Augustus at the southern end of Loch Ness, this beautiful hotel has excellent dog-friendly rooms in the ‘Garden Block’, where each bedroom has a small enclosed garden for the dog to wander around while you enjoy an aperitif on the veranda. There is also a large covered grass area where you can play before heading out to explore Loch Ness.
Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town, Kimpton’s Charlotte Square property has one key asset above other city center properties: its own private, enclosed garden. Once you’ve checked in, ask for Charlotte Square lawn keys to let your dog run free without fearing traffic or getting caught by cosmopolitan squirrels. Once they’re done having fun, it’s your turn: The dog can stay in the room while you go to the spa, which has a pool, wellness center and treatments. Don’t miss dinner at dog-friendly Baba’s: The charred sweet potatoes are amazing.
Located on Scotland’s northernmost coast, at the top of the North Coast 500 route, Tongue Hotel is the perfect destination for dogs and their owners. Across Lake Kyle is the wide, sandy Skinnet Beach, where dogs can run free and splash in the sea. Walking on the beach or hiking in the hills will completely tire you out. The hotel’s 2023 refurbishment has resulted in freshly furnished bedrooms in vibrant colours, and a modern restaurant serving the best Scottish seafood.
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You don’t have to go far to get to the beach from The Waterside, as this hotel overlooks a wide expanse of beautiful, soft sand where dogs are allowed to run all year round. In fact, you can hardly escape the sights and sounds of the ocean here – and that’s no bad thing. Listen to the waves crashing onto the shore from the beer garden, or watch the waves roll in as you dine on outstanding seafood (don’t miss the appetizers). Dog walking can be done daily along the Ayrshire Coast Path; You can walk for miles in either direction.
If you really want to pamper your dog and yourself, this Perthshire hotel is the place to book. Gleneagles is known for its Michelin-starred restaurant, spa and golf course that everyone in your party should enjoy. But dogs will love walking the grounds and exploring the walking paths on your doorstep. All bedrooms feature vintage rugs and antique-style furniture; Dogs are given a bed and blankets just for them, including the occasional four-poster bed. However, please note that if your dog barks a bit, it may be moved to the on-site stalls if it is disrupting the experience of other guests; This is for lead dogs only.
Experience the sea views and the sound of the waves at this beautiful beach hotel (Isle of Mull hotel)
When booking this hotel, ask for a sea view from the first floor and you won’t have a reason to leave your bed there, because watching the ferries passing by the ocean from outside the window will fascinate you for hours. You can even hear the waves when you open the window. If you need to leave your room, head downstairs and walk to the nearby beach, or take the forest sculpture trail for a short walk with the dog. Don’t miss eating at the restaurant, where seafood and steaks are indispensable for the day.
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Glencoe Inn is just a short drive from one of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes and is a must-stop if you’re planning on hiking in the area. There are two restaurants here: an informal, diner-style restaurant popular with passers-by for its pizza and fish and chips, and a friendly fine dining option within the hotel itself, serving local fish and game. The bedrooms are simple but comfortable, there’s also tea and coffee from Tunnock (the family bakery) next door, and dogs will love wandering along the nearby lake.
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12 Dog-friendly Days Out In Scotland
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Dog Friendly Holiday Cottages In The Scottish Highlands
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Have you ever been on vacation and not been glad your furry – and let’s be honest, probably adorable (!) family member stayed home?
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Whether you’re looking for a cat and dog-friendly hotel or somewhere with its own stables to take your horse on holiday, Scotland offers plenty of pet-friendly accommodation with options to make your trip truly special.
Discover dog-friendly hotels in Scotland that are perfect for you and your pet. Includes nearby walks, dog opportunities, things to do nearby and more!
Dog-friendly Holidays In Scotland
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Organizations such as Historic Scotland and the National Trust for Scotland offer great leisure activities for dogs, as long as they allow it.
