Your Guide to Dog-Friendly Travel in the Lake District
The Lake District is one of the most sought-after destinations in the UK for travellers accompanied by their furry friends. With its renowned natural setting, myriad of outdoor activities, and pet-friendly attractions, eateries, and accommodation, you and your dogs can feel right at home. Whether you have a tiny handbag pooch or a lively large hound, there’s something for all types in the area - including five-star accommodation at Linthwaite House!
Plush Stays for Posh Pooches
Make Linthwaite House your base for exploring all that The Lakes has to offer you and your canine companion. We will ensure that every moment of your stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible - for both of you.
Our dedicated pet-friendly rooms and suites welcome your furry friend along with their own care kit, welcome letter, and activities guide - a warm gesture to ensure that they feel just as pampered as you do.
They are bound to enjoy our sprawling grounds, tranquil tarn, and surrounding woodlands as much as you do!
Dog-friendly Attractions
A great nearby adventure to start with is Windermere Lake Cruises, where dogs travel for free and even get their own ticket. They are welcome on self-drive motorboats and rowboats, too, although owners are asked to keep them on a lead to prevent any wild bird chases that might end in a swim!
For a nostalgic trip, head to the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway. While the steam train might be a bit noisy for some pooches, well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. Similarly, dogs are allowed year-round on Ullswater Steamers and the Coniston Historic Steam Yacht Gondola, although they should stick to the outer decks. Last but certainly not least, the charming Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway offers a unique experience for dogs, complete with a welcome pack.
Grizedale and Whinlatter Forests are perfect for a woodland walk, with designated seating areas outside where you can and your pooch can relax with a drink and a snack. At Brockhole-On-Windermere Visitor Centre, your dog can enjoy the expansive grounds, though they must be kept on a lead and are only allowed on the café terrace. And don't miss the Lingholm Kitchen & Walled Garden, where dogs on leads can explore the grounds.
Trails for Tails
Derwentwater
Derwentwater in Keswick is undeniably one of the most visually stunning natural wonders in the region, surrounded by breathtaking mountains that enhance the vibrant colours bestowed by Mother Nature. For an unforgettable experience, we recommend the full 10-mile route around the lake, starting at The Moot Hall. Here, you'll find helpful maps and information to guide your walk. Take a whole day to enjoy this leisurely walk and soak in the mesmerising scenery with your canine companion.
Grasmere and Rydal
For a varied and pleasant circular walk, explore both Grasmere and Rydal Water. Despite some unavoidable road walking, this route offers charming vistas and historical interest, including the old Coffin Road, which once carried the dead of Rydal to Grasmere for burial. You'll also pass by Dove Cottage, the home of the famous Lakeland poet William Wordsworth from 1799 to 1808. Begin your adventure from one of the car parks in Grasmere, with the one on Stock Lane being the most accessible. This 5.6-mile walk takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, offering plenty of time to enjoy the tranquil surroundings together.
Keswick to Threlkeld
The Keswick to Threlkeld Railway Path, once damaged by the devastating floods in December 2015, has been lovingly restored, providing a delightful walk for you and your dog. This route includes a short diversion off the old railway line onto a 45-metre causeway leading to Brundholme Road, and from there, you continue straight into the quaint village of Threlkeld. Starting from Keswick, this 6.2-mile walk takes approximately 3 hours, offering a perfect blend of nature and history.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants
In Windermere, a mere five-minute drive from Linthwaite House, you will find The Boathouse Bar & Restaurant, The Flying Pig, The Wild Boar, and The Fizzy Tarte. All offer quick bites in a pet-friendly location after a long day of exploring The Lakes.
You could also head out to The Black Labrador in Underbarrow, The Punch Bowl Inn & Restaurant in Crosthwaite, The Mortal Man in Troutbeck, and Wateredge Inn Bar and Garden in Ambleside, all approximately 15 minutes away.
For a delightful meal in Ambleside, venture to The Drunken Duck in Barngates, The Golden Rule, or Sticklebarn in Great Langdale, about a 20 to 30-minute drive. A bit further afield, around 30 minutes from Windermere, are The Tower Bank Arms in Near Sawrey and The Cuckoo Brow Inn in Far Sawrey, Hawkshead.
Finally, for those willing to drive a little longer, The Dog & Gun in Keswick, one of the oldest pubs in the area, awaits you and your pooch with a warm welcome about 45 minutes away.
Are you ready for a ‘paw’some adventure in The Lakes? Reach out to our Guest Liaison Team about options for an unrivalled escape for you and your furry friends.
