15 fantastic dog-friendly cottages to stay in
Taking your four-legged friend on holiday? Beth Rowland picks 15 gorgeous, dog-friendly cottages in the countryside, all of which will host your dog for free.

1. Wheeldon Trees Farm, Peak District

Located at the foot of High Wheeldon, a National Trust owned hill offering spectacular views of the Peak District, Wheeldon Trees Farm provides everything from towels, spare leads and dog toys to emergency dog food and a dog cage if requested. With plenty of fantastic walks and dog-friendly pubs nearby, this cottage is owned by dog lovers and is the perfect place to enjoy a holiday with your pets.
2. Church Cottage, Dorset

This 18th Century Grade II listed, thatched property claims online to have perhaps the best sea view in England, and the panoramic view across Studland Bay, Old Harry Rocks and the Isle of Wight is indeed stunning. Horse riding facilities are available on nearby Studland Beach and the local areas is famous for its countryside walks. A hamper full of local produce is provided on arrival.
3. Fletchers Combe, Devon

Owned by Dog Behvaiourist Roger Mugford, Fletchers Combe is located in a secluded Devon valley close to Totnes, termed the alternative capital of the West and famous for its independent shopping. The buildings are surrounded by 70 acres of farmland, ponds and streams that guests are free to explore with their dogs.
4. Llangollen Barns, North Wales

Breath-taking mountain views over the Dee Valley can be enjoyed from this newly converted 19th century barn. The owners of Llangollen Barns own a spaniel themselves, and are happy to provide towels for any muddy paws. Llangollen is well known for it’s walking, mountain biking and canoeing routes, so is perfect for a more active break.
5. Transvaal House, Cornwall

A quiet secluded cottage just outside the small town of Perranporth, Transvaal House is the perfect place to explore the North Cornish Coast with your canine companion. Dogs are welcome along the paths of the local valley, along the sandy Perranporth beach and the three miles of dunes behind Perranporth. A doggie welcome pack, including treats, towels, toys, food bowls and poo bags is provided on arrival and evening dog sitting can be arranged for an extra cost.
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6. Lake Villa, Devon

Up to four dogs are welcome at any of these pretty character cottages. Large gardens, a meadow and two lakes are a great place for pets and children to play. Some of the best sandy beaches in the south west are located within 10 miles and the majority are pet friendly. The local village in Bradworthy also welcomes pets and a BBQ and free fishing in the lakes are provided for guests.
7. Daviot Lodge, Scottish Highlands

The perfect Highland retreat, Daviot Lodge is set among tranquil birch woods in rural Inverness-shire. With striking Scandinavian design, this cottage offers a holiday with a difference. Just on the doorstep is Glen Affric, recently designated a National Nature Reserve, and the famous Loch Ness is not far. An area of outstanding natural beauty, this is the perfect destination to experience wild and remote Scotland with your dogs.
8. Penny Cottage, Somerset

The idyllic Penny Cottage dates back to 1860 and is set on the edge of High Littleton, surrounding by rolling Somerset countryside. Many public footpaths surround the village and the Woodland Trust owns nearby Greyfield’s Wood that conceals a secret waterfall, locally referred to jokingly as the Niagara Falls of Somerset.
9. 524 Pamphill Green Cottage, Dorset

This beautiful thatched cottage, painted a striking pink colour is tucked away in a quiet part of the Kingston Lacy estate near Wimborne Minster. It is the perfect location to explore the Dorset and Wiltshire countryside, and the Dorset coast is within easy reach. An open lawn to the front, and informal garden to the back, are both useful for dogs brought along.
10. The Barn, Devon

This detached barn conversion welcomes up to three dogs and is just a short distance from the Great Western Canal, home to one of the last horse-drawn barges in the UK. The eleven miles of waterway are perfect for dog walkers, cyclists, anglers and boat enthusiasts. Children will love the secret pirate games room that is accessed behind a bookcase.
11. Grisedale Barn, Yorkshire

Located on a working farm, this spacious five bedroom barn welcomes pets and encourages guests to explore the surrounding Yorkshire Dales National Park. An enclosed lawn garden means that dogs will be safe and secure at the property, and superb walks around Wharfedale start from the front door.
12. Whitegates Cottage, Lincolnshire

This pretty thatched cottage dates back to 1770 and is constructed of traditional mud and stud walls. The Lincolnshire coast and Skegness in particular are easily accessible and the area is perfect for walking and cycling. The enclosed garden leads to an orchard and one dog is welcome to stay in the property.
13. Wood Cottage, Cornwall

Wood Cottage has been described as looking like something out of a fairy story. This romantic, magical and secluded property is surrounded by thick woodland, set just above the hamlet of Durgan in Falmouth. The timber-built, thatched cabin used to be an apple store and walks perfect for your pets start right outside the door.
14. Sea Valley, Devon

Set on the North Devon Coast near Bideford, this two bedroom chalet has a beautiful sea view, with the coast less than one mile away. Perfect for relaxing with your dogs, the garden is enclosed and glorious coastal paths easy to access. Take a day trip to the nearby Eden Project, or catch the ferry from Bideford to Lundy Island, famous for diving and seal watching opportunities.
15. Longstone Cottage, Isle of Wight

This spacious detached Edwardian cottage is located in Mottistone on the Isle of Wight. It has a large peaceful garden and is the ideal site for walking holidays, particularly through the Longstone Valley. With no electricity at the property, this is the perfect ‘get away from it all’ holiday for you and your dogs.
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