With the end of the summer fast approaching, we cast our minds to Autumn and contemplate our next holiday destination with our beloved canine companions. Whilst we’re sure to miss the joys of summer (dry fur and no muddy footprints!) an autumnal holiday promises a blissful break from the bustling crowds that the summer months often bring.

The 1st October is a welcome date when the seasonal dog ban on many beaches is lifted and a wealth of opportunities for seaside adventures can be unearthed. Breaks away in the countryside have never been so tempting; think browned leaves floating off the trees, crisp walks and steaming bowls of soup signalling the transition from one season to another.

There’s no better time to embark on an autumnal getaway so with this in mind, we’ve rounded up our top five dog-friendly destinations to inspire your next getaway with your four-legged friends in tow.

The Brecon Beacons

Straddling the England/Welsh border, the Brecon Beacons National Park is one of the top destinations for those lusting after a dog-friendly holiday. Boasting vast open landscapes and craggy mountain ranges, the great outdoors is quite literally on the doorstep affording long, enjoyable walks in the countryside.

Properties to stay at: Charity, The Wilds and Faraway House 

Dartmoor

Dartmoor National Park is a vast landscape featuring sparkling rivers, granite-topped tors and rugged moorland making this iconic wilderness the perfect base for those with canine companions. With endless walks on offer and traditional dog-friendly pubs scattered throughout, Dartmoor makes for a welcome spot for dog-friendly hikes and hearty post-walk refuels.

Properties to stay at: Peacock Blue, The Riddle and Twelve Penny Barn

Cotswolds


Famed for its honey-hued cottages and rolling patchwork countryside, the Cotswolds has long been a popular destination for a quintessentially English holiday. The famous Cotswolds Way (a network of footpaths stretching over 100 miles) promises magical walks, perfect for both the two and four-legged members of the family to enjoy.

Properties to stay at: Zamani, Filly Island and Burcombe House

Cornwall


With a combination of secluded coves, dramatic coastlines and stretches of sweeping golden sandy beaches, Cornwall is an excellent base for holidays with your hound. The South West Coast Path flaunts a network of dog-friendly footpaths along the shoreline making the perfect route to discover an isolated bay to take a refreshing doggy paddle in the ocean.

Properties to stay at: Libertine, Nevada, Valency Wood and The Beach Hut

Lake District


Home to spectacular scenery and a vast collection of forests, fells and glittering lakes, the Lake District is a haven for dog-friendly walks. Stumble across majestic lakes which offer the perfect spot for dipping toes and paws after long hikes up the surrounding iconic peaks.

Properties to stay at: Winterfell and Skyline

View our exclusive collection of dog-friendly escapes throughout the UK.