Dog-Friendly Days Out in the Cotswolds
Planning a Cotswolds escape with your four-legged friend? You’re in luck. The Cotswolds is one of the UK’s best destinations for dog-friendly adventures, with scenic countryside walks, welcoming cafés, historic estates and attractions that are happy to see muddy paws at the door.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend break or a longer countryside stay, there are plenty of places where dogs are more than just allowed — they’re genuinely welcomed.
Here are some of our favourite dog-friendly attractions and places to explore across the Cotswolds.
Batsford Arboretum
Just outside Moreton-in-Marsh, Batsford Arboretum is a beautiful spot to enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by seasonal colour. Spring brings spectacular blossom displays, while autumn transforms the gardens with fiery reds and golds.
Dogs are welcome throughout much of the arboretum, as well as the garden centre and café, provided they stay on a lead. It’s an ideal stop for relaxed wandering and fresh countryside air.
Cotswold Lavender
Near the picturesque village of Snowshill, the lavender fields become a sea of purple during summer. Open seasonally from June through August, it’s one of the most photogenic places in the region.
Dogs on leads are welcome to stroll through the fields and wildflower areas with you, making it a lovely summer outing for both owners and pets alike.
Blenheim Palace Park
While dogs can’t enter the palace itself, the vast parkland surrounding Blenheim Palace offers plenty of space for scenic walks. With lakes, woodland trails and open green areas, it’s easy to spend hours exploring.
There are also dog-friendly café areas and water stations available, making it a convenient stop during a day out in Oxfordshire.
Cotswold Farm Park
Created by farmer and television presenter Adam Henson, Cotswold Farm Park is a favourite with families visiting the area.
Although dogs aren’t permitted inside the main animal areas, they are welcome in selected outdoor spaces, walking routes and visitor areas. The nearby wildlife walk is especially popular for dog owners wanting to stretch their legs in the countryside.
Cotswold Wildlife Park
For animal lovers, Cotswold Wildlife Park offers a memorable day out with landscaped gardens and a wide variety of wildlife to discover.
Dogs on leads are welcome in many of the outdoor areas, allowing you to enjoy the grounds together while spotting giraffes, rhinos, penguins and more along the way.
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Afternoon Tea with a View
If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, there are a couple of great options.
The Arden Hotel, right opposite the Royal Shakespeare Company, is a go-to for a classic afternoon tea in elegant surroundings.
Alternatively, the RSC Rooftop Restaurant offers a great afternoon tea experience with the added bonus of panoramic views over the town — well worth it on a clear day.
Sunday Roasts
You’ll find plenty of roast dinners in Stratford, but for a proper, old-school Sunday roast, try The Bull.
If you’re after something a bit more special, The Woodsman is just down the street from The Townhouse apartment and offers a more elevated take on the classic.
Stay at Mount Pleasant Townhouse in Stratford-upon-Avon
There’s so much to explore in Stratford, and these are just a handful of the places we love most. Whether you’re here for a short break or a longer stay, why not book in at Mount Pleasant Townhouse, quite possibly the most prestigious and luxury apartment in town!
We hope you enjoy discovering your own favourite eateries along the way.
And if you find somewhere brilliant — let us know. We’re always up for a new recommendation.
Click to book your luxury break at Mount Pleasant Townhouse here.