Dogs Love Cumbria Guide 2025

A pawfect trip to Cumbria

Looking for somewhere to visit with your canine companion? The Lake District, Cumbria, is a dream for dogs (trust us: we’ve checked!). Fells and mountains to explore, beaches to run on, towns to stroll through and so much more await both you and your four legged friend.

There are plenty of great places to stay, brilliant dog friendly attractions, fantastic eateries, and so much more to discover. You’ll be spoilt for choice, but don’t worry: we’ve got you covered with our guide to a pawfect trip to the Lake District, Cumbria.

Plus, we’ve included a helpful guide to Dog Etiquette for the countryside, so you can be confident in bringing your pet along in a way that’s kind to the local wildlife, farm animals and other visitors.

All things considered, you’d be barking mad to miss out on a pawsome time in Cumbria!

Dog Etiquette

BE ESPECIALLY VIGILANT AROUND LIVESTOCK

Be aware it is an offence to allow your pet to bother any livestock. Please keep your dog on a lead and give farm animals plenty of space so they don’t feel intimidated. Cows may be more curious, but should they charge towards you, drop your dog’s lead and run to safety. Your pet will be able to outrun any danger by themselves.

PROTECT OUR BEAUTIFUL WILDLIFE

To protect the local wildlife but also your pet, it’s important that wildlife should not become distressed. Please keep your dog on a lead and respect any official signage restricting access should you come across them.

PROTECT AGAINST ANIMAL & INSECT BITES

Long grass can often be home to insects, parasites and even adders, so please be vigilant. If your pet is bitten by an adder, try not to let them move and consult a vet as soon as possible.

PICK UP AFTER YOUR POOCH

Always ensure you carry sufficient waste bags during your adventures; and that you dispose of any plastic bags in appropriately labelled bins.

RESPECT OTHER VISITORS

As much as we love our four-legged friends, please respect other walkers, cyclists and horse riders by keeping dogs under close control.

For more information on dog etiquette, head to visitlakedistrict.com

ACCOMMODATION

ANOTHER PLACE, THE LAKE

Set on the shores of Ullswater is Another Place, The Lake, a contemporary dogfriendly hotel with 47 rooms, shepherd huts and a two-bedroomed treehouse. You’ll also find a swimming pool, treatments, Kids’ Zone, four restaurants, and a private jetty and lakeshore for watersport activities overlooking Ullswater and the fells.

another.place/the-lake

Watermillock, Ullswater, CA11 0LP

Tel: 01768 486442

BLACK BECK HOLIDAY PARK

Black Beck offers superb dog-friendly accommodation, including cottages, lodges, glamping pods, and touring pitches. We offer short breaks and Holiday Home ownership. With picturesque views, in a stunning woodland setting, and a dogfriendly pub nearby, dogs are sure to enjoy their stay with us too!

Bouth, Near Newby Bridge, LA12 8JN Tel: 01253 879911 www.partingtons.com

BORROWDALE HOTEL

Experience the perfect getaway with your furry friend at the charming Borrowdale Hotel. Discover warm hospitality, great food and breath-taking surroundings, as dogs are invited to share unforgettable adventures by your side. Open daily for delicious meals and relaxing overnight accommodation.

Tel: 0330 0564 884 www.lakedistricthotels.net/ borrowdalehotel/

Borrowdale Valley, Keswick, CA12 5UY

ACCOMMODATION

GEORGE AND DRAGON, CLIFTON

A stylish country inn with a cosy bar and fourteen comfortable bedrooms, individually designed and decorated. Enjoy fresh, seasonal food, local ales and fine wines in our relaxing and welcoming restaurant. We grow and rear much of our produce. Sister establishment of Askham Hall and the Queen’s Head.

www.georgeanddragonclifton.co.uk

Clifton, Penrith, CA10 2ER

Tel: 01768 865381

HILLCROFT PARK

Award-winning Hillcroft Park is set in the beautiful Ullswater Valley. Offering holiday accommodation suiting every taste/pocket. We offer traditional camping pods, glamping pods, lodges, holiday homes plus two fully-equipped, year-round self-catering cottages and house in the village.

Roe Head Lane, Pooley Bridge, Penrith, CA10 2LT | Tel: 017684 86363 www.hillcroftpark.co.uk

LAKE DISTRICT ESTATES HOLIDAYS

BOOK your adventure. STAY in picturesque locations. LOVE your perfect escape. Choose dog-friendly glamping or self-catering accommodation. Our rural and lakeside parks are ‘pawfect’ for both relaxing and adventure-filled breaks. Cottages, lodges or apartments and holiday homes for sale. Dog welcome pack on arrival.

www.lakedistrictestates.com

Lake District Estates self-catering in Windermere, Ullswater, Kirkby Lonsdale, Caldbeck, Carnforth | Tel: 01539 587842

ACCOMMODATION

MACDONALD LEEMING HOUSE HOTEL

Luxury accommodation in the beautiful setting of 22 acres of gardens and secluded woodland. Our dog friendly rooms have direct access to the gardens and lake and our reception boasts a dog friendly station with free treats. Dog beds and bowls on request.

www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/ leeming-house

Watermillock, Penrith, CA11 0JJ

Tel: 017684 86674

QUEEN’S HEAD ASKHAM

A cosy 17th century village pub with bedrooms and part of the esteemed Ciel Hotels, which has been lovingly renovated to the Askham Hall standard. Discover seasonal ‘super-posh’ pub food made with produce reared locally. Enjoy an invigorating fell walk, or a more gentle stroll along the river Lowther.

www.queensheadaskham.co.uk

Askham, Penrith, CA10 2PF

Tel: 01931 712350

QUEENS HEAD, HAWKSHEAD

Since the early 17th century, we’ve been welcoming visitors to the village of Hawkshead, whether you want to drink, dine or unwind in one of our 15 en suite bedrooms, The Queen’s Head is the perfect base to explore. Surrounded by picturesque walking routes, challenging fells and great attractions for the whole family.

www.queensheadhawkshead.co.uk

Main Street, Hawkshead, Ambleside LA22 0NS | Tel: 015394 36271

ACCOMMODATION

QUEENS HEAD, TROUTBECK

Located 4 miles from Windermere and nestled on the side of the fells stands the award-winning Queens Head, a 17th century coaching inn. The inn features a cosy drinking and dining area perfect for you and your four-legged friend to unwind, grab a drink, a bite to eat or stay the night in one of our ten en suite bedrooms.

www.queensheadtroutbeck.pub

Town Head, Troutbeck, Windermere, LA23 1PW | Tel: 015394 32404

ROSE COTTAGE IN THE LAKES

A ‘Visit England’ 5 Star Gold awardwinner situated in the Lake District Northern Fells. This fantastic dogfriendly, self-catering cottage sits in its own grounds two minutes from a dog-friendly pub. It overlooks the village green and pond, with stunning views across High Pike and Carrock Fell.

Back Green, Hesket Newmarket, nr Caldbeck, CA7 8JG | Tel: 016973 45116 www.rosecottageinthelakes.co.uk

SALUTATION INN, THRELKELD

Located beneath Blencathra the recently refurbished Inn offers homemade food, local ales, cosy accommodation and a Cumbrian welcome for dogs accompanied by well behaved owners. Easily accessible via A66 by car with ample parking, by bus or bike (C2C), with plenty of local dog friendly walks. Sister establishment of Horse & Farrier Inn.

www.thesalutation.co.uk

Threlkeld, Keswick, CA12 4SQ Tel: 01768 779614

STANWIX PARK HOLIDAY CENTRE

Self catering accommodation, camping & touring pitches, camping pods to hire. Indoor & outdoor swimming pools, five star leisure centre with sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi & gym, family entertainment & adults only entertainment, on site JJ’s Bowl, cafe, arcade & soft play. Max. of 2 dogs per booking. (Dog-friendly bar-outside only.)

www.stanwix.com

Greenrow, Silloth, Cumbria, CA7 4HH

Tel: 01697 332666

THE COPPERMINES LAKES COTTAGES

We specialise in beautiful and characterful dog-friendly cottages, all located within the stunning Lake District and each accommodating 1 - 4 dogs. Plus, Coppermines guests have exclusive access to our dedicated dog field in Coniston village for safe, off-lead exercising.

www.coppermines.co.uk

The Estate Office, The Bridge, Coniston LA21 8HJ | Tel: 015394 41765

THE GRANGE HOTEL

A charming 4-star Victorian hotel overlooking Morecambe Bay.

Ideal for Lake District explorers, with elegant rooms, afternoon teas, and seasonal dining.

Just minutes from the Grange-overSands promenade and fells.

www.grange-hotel.co.uk

Station Square, Grange-over-Sands, LA11 6EJ | Tel: 015395 33666

THE ROYAL OAK HOTEL, ROSTHWAITE

The idea of waving your dog goodbye at the kennels is a thing of the past! There’s no need to leave your doggie at home when you stay at the newly refurbished Royal Oak in the Borrowdale Valley. We’ve got it covered: beautiful bedrooms with dreamy beds and gleaming bathrooms, hearty breakfast, delicious evening dinner and charmful lounges.

www.royaloakhotel.co.uk

Rosthwaite, CA12 5XB Tel: 01768 777214

THE YAN AT BROADRAYNE

Dogs love the Lakes just as much as we do, so why not bring them along! Our dog-friendly Bistro Bedrooms and cottages mean your pooch can join every fell walk, paddleboard mission and muddy adventure, before curling up content, ready for tomorrow’s tail-wagging fun.

Broadrayne Farm, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9RU | Tel: 01539 435055 www.theyan.co.uk

The Howard Arms, Brampton Where Dogs Are Part of the Family

Nestled in the heart of Brampton, The Howard Arms is a traditional country pub with a passion for great food, quality drinks, and wagging tails. Whether you’re stopping by after a countryside stroll or settling in for a weekend escape, you and your dog will be greeted with a warm Cumbrian welcome.

Dogs welcome in all public areas - the bar, restaurant and beer garden.

Complimentary treats, water bowls and plenty of fuss from the team on arrival.

Dog menu available because they deserve a proper meal and drink too!

Dog blankets available for overnight stays in our rooms, along with a little treat from us!

Delicious home cooked food served daily, with locally sourced ingredients.

Well stocked bar with 5* cask marque real ales, fine wines and seasonal specials.

Beautiful walks from the doorstep and scenic routes nearby.

Roaring log fires in winter, sunny courtyard seating in summer and a relaxed, dog loving atmosphere all year round. The Howard Arms… Great food, great drinks and a warm welcome for all.

The Howard Arms, Front Street, Brampton, CA8 1NG 016977 42758 | howardarms.co.uk

SIR WOOFCHESTER’S

Sir Woofchester’s Canine Hospitalityproducts are available to purchase at a variety of high quality Lake District pubs, inns, hotels, cafes and gift shops. We hope your dog loves them as much as we do!

www.sirwoofchesters.com

hospitality@sirwoofchesters.com

Tel: 01229 877 277

WCF LAKES COLLECTION DOG FOOD

Nourish your dog with our Lakes Collection dog food, trusted by thousands of customers and dogs throughout Cumbria. Freshly prepared premium protein. Grain free and hypoallergenic recipes. Made in the UK. Order online or visit our local stores.

WCF Pet & Equestrian Cumbrian stores in Cockermouth, Carlisle, Penrith, Ulverston and Wigton | 016977 45080 info@lakescollection.co.uk www.lakescollection.co.uk

ATTRACTIONS

ALLAN BANK

Once home to William Wordsworth this historic villa offers stunning views and space to relax. Inside you’ll find informal rooms with a second-hand book shop, exhibition space and a giant wall mural. Outdoors explore the 19th century wooded pleasure ground. Dogs are welcome outside and downstairs in the house.

nationaltrust.org.uk/allan-bank

Grasmere, Ambleside, LA22 9QB

Tel: 015394 35143

CLAIFE VIEWING STATION AND WINDERMERE WEST SHORE

Head up to the viewing platform where coloured glass frames the view over Windermere. A network of footpaths take you through woods or if you’d prefer a low-level walk, wander along the lakeshore to Wray. Rewards in the café at Claife for you and your doggy friend.

nationaltrust.org.uk/claife-viewingstation-and-windermere-west-shore

Near: Far Sawrey, Hawkshead. Tel: 015394 33250

DERWENT PENCIL MUSEUM

Located in Keswick at the site of the old Pencil Factory, we have been welcoming visitors for over 40 years.

Discover the Secret WW2 Pencil, miniature pencil sculptures, the worlds largest coloured pencil. We are open all year round. There’s more to a pencil than you think!

www.derwentart.com

Cardingmill Lane, Southy Works, Keswick, CA12 5NG | Tel: 01768 773626

ATTRACTIONS

FELL FOOT PARK ON WINDERMERE

Take a stroll with your dog alongside England’s largest lake. With parkland, easy access to Windermere’s lakeshore and the south meadow to explore, there’s plenty of space to stretch your legs all year round. Bring a picnic or visit the dog-friendly Boathouse Café.

nationaltrust.org.uk/fell-foot

Newby Bridge, Windermere, LA12 8NN Tel: 015395 31273

HUTTON-IN-THE-FOREST

Lord and Lady Inglewood’s beautiful historic home is a glorious mixture of architectural styles. The Walled Garden, full of colourful flowers, is the highlight of extensive grounds that give Hutton its magnificent setting. Dogs are very welcome in the gardens, woodland walk and the tearoom.

www.hutton-in-the-forest.co.uk

Hutton-in-the-Forest, Penrith, CA11 9TH | Tel: 017684 84449

KESWICK LAUNCH

Dogs travel for free on all launches. See the spectacular scenery of Derwentwater by Launch and hop on and off as you like, to walk around the lake or climb the mountains with your four-legged friend.

Rowing boats and self-drive motor boats are available to hire.

www.keswick-launch.co.uk

Derwentwater Foreshore, Keswick, CA12 5DJ | Tel: 017687 72263

ATTRACTIONS

LAKE DISTRICT FORESTS:

Grizedale, in the heart of the Lake District National Park, is just 30 minutes from Bowness-on-Windermere. Explore our waymarked trails as you pass amazing sculptures from leading artists scattered throughout the forest alongside your four-legged friend before exploring our dog friendly exhibition space, shop and café. Whinlatter is England’s only true mountain forest, home to stunning landscapes, fantastic walking and exhilarating mountain biking for humans and dogs alike. There’s nowhere better for both adventure and peaceful woodland walks, with plenty of opportunities afterwards to enjoy our dog friendly café, visitor centre and shop –and don’t miss out on the Wow Trail!

Discover the nation’s forests alongside your dog and forge lifelong memories together.

Grizedale Forest, Hawkshead, Nr Ambleside, LA22 0QJ

Whinlatter Forest, Braithwaite, Keswick, CA12 5TW

Tel: Grizedale: 0300 067 4495 • Whinlatter: 01768 778469

LAKELAND MOTOR MUSEUM

A fascinating collection of over 30,000 exhibits that trace the development of road transport, cycles, motorbikes, motor cars and automobilia. Much more than just a motor museum, our local history and period shopping displays, authentic recreations and picturesque riverside cafe makes it a great day out for the whole family.

www.lakelandmotormuseum.co.uk

Old Blue Mill, Backbarrow, Newby Bridge, LA12 8TA | Tel: 015395 30400

ATTRACTIONS

LAKESIDE & HAVERTHWAITE RAILWAY

Be transported back in time as you take this nostalgic 20 minute Steam Train journey through beautiful Lakeland views, travelling between Haverthwaite & Lakeside Station. Spend a while at Haverthwaite Station, you will find… a Tea Room, Gift Shop, Engine Shed, Woodland Playground and Walk.

www.lakesiderailway.co.uk

Haverthwaite Station, Nr Ulverston, LA12 8AL | Tel: 015395 31594

RAVENGLASS & ESKDALE RAILWAY

Enjoy seven miles of spectacular scenery at our narrow-gauge steam railway. Dogs welcome (except premium carriages) for a small charge. Museum, café’s, pub, gift shops and local walks. Rover Ticket - all year travel for pooches and complimentary bandana. Open March–November. See website for timetables.

www.ravenglass-railway.co.uk

Ravenglass Station, Ravenglass, CA18 1SW | Tel: 01229 717171

RHEGED

Located on the edge of the Northern Lakes, Rheged has a cinema, café, gallery, shops, and indoor play.

Dogs are warmly welcomed in majority of our shops, with ample dog-friendly seating throughout the centre. Find dog treats and accessories in our outdoor shop.

www.rheged.com

Rheged Centre, Redhills, Penrith, CA11 0DQ | Tel: 01768 868000

ATTRACTIONS

TARN HOWS

With endless walks for all abilities and majestic mountain views, there’s something for everyone when exploring Tarn Hows with your fourlegged friend.

Livestock graze all year around the tarn, so dogs should be kept on a lead.

Near Coniston, Cumbria

Tel: 07919 111620 nationaltrust.org.uk/tarn-howsand-coniston

ULLSWATER ‘STEAMERS’

Enjoy a lake cruise on Ullswater, with spectacular mountain views. Our heritage vessels connect with famous walking routes and welcome dogs (small charge applies). Rover Ticket - all year travel for pooches and complimentary bandana. Check out the new Dog Station at Glenridding. See website for all details.

www.ullswater-steamers.co.uk

Glenridding Pier House, Glenridding, CA11 0US | Pooley Bridge Pier House, Pooley Bridge, CA10 2NN

Tel: 017684 82229

WRAY CASTLE

Lakeshore walks await at Wray. Wind your way through the woodlands to discover the Gothic Revival boathouse, where you can catch a boat to Ambleside or Brockhole, or explore further before refuelling in the café; doggy ice cream and treats are available too.

Tel: 015394 33250 nationaltrust.org.uk/wray

Low Wray, Ambleside, LA22 0JA

PLACES TO EAT

LANGDALE CHASE HOTEL

Featuring spectacular grounds, a wraparound terrace and delicious food, treat your four-legged friend to a trip to Langdale Chase. Dogs are welcome in all areas of the hotel apart from the Dining Room, and they may even find the hotel’s resident dog, Eddie, roaming around.

www.langdalechase.co.uk

Ambleside Road, Ecclerigg, Windermere, LA23 1LW | Tel: 01539 432201

NORTH LAKES HOTEL & SPA

As dog lovers, North Lakes Hotel & Spa takes care of canine companions from the moment they arrive till their last tail ‘wag’ goodbye.

With all dogs’ welcome in the hotel’s bar area, why not enjoy a delicious meal with your paw-tner in crime?

www.northlakeshotel.co.uk

Ullswater Road, Penrith, CA11 8QT Tel: 01768 868111

THE BRACKENRIGG INN

With hearty pub classics to sate hiker’s appetites, nine contemporary bedrooms, sun-trap terrace with wide-angle Ullswater views, and roaring log fires come winter, guests, locals and walkers alike are tapping into The Brackenrigg Inn - a refreshing take on a traditional Cumbrian pub.

www.brackenrigginn.co.uk

Watermillock, Penrith, CA11 0LP Tel: 01768 486442

The Café at Lakeland

Discover the charm of the Lakeland Café in the heart of Windermere; the perfect spot to relax, refuel, and soak up the Lakes. Enjoy delicious homemade food, fresh coffee, and locally sourced treats in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you’re stopping by after a walk or meeting friends for breakfast or lunch, we’ve got something for everyone, including your four-legged companions. Yes, dogs are always welcome! Come and see why locals and visitors alike love spending time with us, and make sure your build in some time to visit our flagship store downstairs. Great food, friendly faces, and a wagging tail or two.

Life works better with

MAP & SYMBOLS