Dog Friendly Activities in the Cotswolds
Here at Luxury Cotswold Retreats, our four-legged friends are just as much part of the family as everyone else - it’s not a family staycation if they can’t join in the fun! We’ve put together this guide on our favourite dog-friendly activities in the Cotswolds. From countryside pubs and circular walks to museums and country houses, here’s what your whole party can enjoy.
Westonbirt Arboretum
Home to 2,500 different species of trees and plants from all over the World, Westonbirt Arboretum is the perfect place for you to escape, relax or have an adventure with your furry friend. Journey along one of the many well-pathed trails, take a relaxing stroll amongst the flowers and trees, or discover the Gruffalo trail and its quirky guardian statues. Dogs are permitted across most of the woodlands so there is plenty of space to let off some steam!
Westonbirt, Tetbury, GL8 8QS
Cotswold Motoring Museum
The Cotswold Motoring Museum has an impressive collection of cars, motorcycles, bicycles, caravans and motoring memorabilia from the 20th Century. A highlight is the children’s televisions star, Brum, who used to drive all around the local town of Bourton-on-the-Water! Dogs are welcome inside the museum, making this the perfect rainy day activity.
The Old Mill, Sherborne St., Bourton-on-the-Water, GL54 2BY
Cotswold Wildlife Park
Introduce your four-legged friend to their wild side and get up close with giraffes, rhinos, lemurs and more at the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens. With 260 different species in over 120 acres of beautiful parkland, there’s plenty of space to relax and get close to these incredible animals. Dogs are welcome to explore the Park on a lead.
Bradwell Grove, Burford, OX18 4JP
Blenheim Palace
Blenheim Palace is a beautiful country house located in an incredible landscape. The principle residence of the Duke of Marlborough and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, it is the only non-royal, non-episcopal house in England to hold the title of palace. A visit is brilliant for all ages and private tours of the Palace can be arranged too. Canine members are welcome on a lead.
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, OX20 1PP
Broadway Tower
Standing at 65 feet high, Broadway Tower has some of the best views of the Cotswold countryside - and you can enjoy it all with your four-legged friends. Enjoy the circular walk around the Tower or race around the new dog agility course. Dog-friendly seating is also available at both the cafe and restaurant onsite so you can take a break and enjoy refreshments after a walk around the grounds.
Middle Hill, Broadway, WR12 7LB
Country Pubs
Whether you are looking for an inviting beer garden to watch the sun go down or a cosy pub to escape the outdoors, there are plenty of friendly pubs in the Cotswolds which both you and your canine friend can enjoy. Two of our favourites include The Duke of Wellington in Bourton-on-the-Water and The Kingham Plough in Kingham, but there are so many more to explore. Get in touch with our friendly team if you’d like recommendations for any other areas.
Various locations
The Cotswold Way Walk
With all that’s on offer, don’t forget about the many rolling hills and wildlife-friendly woodlands on your doorstep just waiting to be explored! With over 150km of well-marked trails, there is plenty of pathway to keep you and your four-legged friend interested. Full of beautiful scenic landscapes and picturesque honey-coloured villages, the Cotswold Way is a wonderful way to explore this area of natural beauty.
Various locations