OUT & ABOUT WITH YOUR DOG TRAVEL, HOLIDAYS & ADVENTURE

DOGFRIENDLY
NUMBER 57 £3.99

CROFTING COMMUNITY PUBLISHED BY

Deo Na Mara
NORFOLK
Oak Tree
Cottages

STOPPING-OFF POINT WHICH DOG TRACKER?

The Plough Inn, Tried and tested
Lupton PHOTO COMPETITION
BY MOTORHOME TO And the winner
Lane Foot Farm is……?
WHERE TO STAY IN 2020
All our reviews
from 2019

Why visit
THE LAKE DISTRICT...
Where to eat, walk, sleep and find great doggy
days out in this fabulous dog friendly place
The Guide: The Lake District, p27

2 DogFriendly
Welcome The top 10 hotels, p43
CONTACT
DogFriendly Limited
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PE27 3WS
Tel 01480 570009

Acting editor
Jeff Porter
Editor
Gareth Salter
Editorial consultant
James Waters
Design
Jane Frusher
Advertising
linda@dogfriendly.co.uk

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volume of mail received,
not all correspondence
can be acknowledged or
This month we cover everywhere from the northernmost tip of Scotland to the dog friendly answered personally.
beaches of Norfolk, and a few places in between. All rights reserved by
DogFriendly Ltd.
We kick off this issue with a visit to Deo Na Mara, in Bettyhill (p6), a remote crofting Reproduction in part
community, as we join Angie and Richard Aspinall on their mission to explore as many or whole is forbidden
without the consent
beaches as possible, including Dunnet Head, the northernmost point in mainland Britain. of the publishers.
Next up we head to Norfolk’s dog and human friendly Oak Tree Cottages (p12),
 Personal views
where Jane Mynott and her partner brush aside the inclement weather to enjoy a stroll expressed in articles
on the beach with their lurcher, Raff. and letters are those of
Then we ind ourselves in Cumbria at the Plough Inn (p18), which makes a wonderful stopping off point on your the contributor and not
necessarily those of the
journey north or south – no more characterless motorway hotels for Tracey Radnall and her sidekick Bertie. publishers. We reserve
On p23, we test a number of GPS dog trackers: do they work and are they worth it? Find out as we give a number the right to delete from
any article, material
of units to humans and their hounds to put through their paces. which we consider could
lead to any breach of
Our property round up this issue (p43) takes a look at the 10 most popular hotels, as voted for by you in the the law of libel. While we
DogFriendly Awards, while our guide (p27) shows the best places to stay, walk and eat in the Lake District. never knowingly include
We head back to the Lake District, to Lane Foot Farm (p48), as Alison Beever and her partner Julie have an erroneous information, the
responsibility for accuracy
opportunity to ‘try before they buy’ a motorhome. It’s a novel experience for both them and their dog, Mac. lies with those who
On p54, we take a look back at all of our reviews of 2019 – where will you stay in 2020? submitted the material.

The results are in for our photo competition (p60). The overall winner is this month’s cover photo, Frasier. Finally,  We reserve the right to
refuse or alter adverts at
there’s our guide to Ruffwear’s (p64) range of dog clothing and accessories. our discretion. We expect
Jeff Porter, info@dogfriendly.co.uk all advertisers to provide
an acceptable standard
of service. Failure to do so
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www.dogfriendly.co.uk 3
 DOG FRIENDLY CODE
l Some people are nervous around dogs
so consider their feelings.
l Be aware of the efect your dog may have
on the people around you.
l Always pick up after your dog and make
sure you dispose of the waste properly.
l Keep your dog under control in
public places.
l Never let your dog climb on the furniture
unless the owner has agreed this is
acceptable.
l Don’t leave your dog alone in a property
unless you have the owner’s agreement.
l Check your dog has been immunised and
Oak Tree Cottages, treat him against ticks, leas and worms.
Norfolk, p12

Tilly’s on her travels in The Plough Inn, at Lupton

western Scotland, p6 in Cumbria, p18

4 DogFriendly
Contents
Our reviews from 2019: which one will you be trying out this year? p54

48 LAKE DISTRICT 60 PHOTO COMPETITION

LANE FOOT FARM, All the winners are revealed
THORNTHWAITE
Alison Beever and her partner 64 OUT & ABOUT
Julie take their dog, Mac, Rufwear has you covered
on a motorhome holiday to the
Lake District for a taste of ‘life 23 WHICH DOG TRACKER?
on the open road’ We take a number of popular
trackers and give
43 THE TOP HOTELS OF 2019 them to some
As voted for by you in the hounds and
DogFriendly Awards their owners
to test
54 REVIEWS OF 2019
Great places we discovered 47, 67 CLASSIFIEDS!
Try before you buy: a motorhome heads to the Lake District, p48 over the course of last year Check the ads

TRIED & TESTED 20-PAGE GUIDE

6 WESTERN HIGHLANDS
DEO NA MARA
Richard and Angie Aspinall travel
to western Scotland with their Why visit
dogs, Tilly and Henry, for a spot
of coastal exploration THE LAKE DISTRICT
12 NORFOLK 28 WHERE TO STAY walking boots! Here are from the ‘madding crowds’
OAK TREE COTTAGES Looking for somewhere to a few ine trails 40 DAYS OUT
Jane Mynott and her partner lay your weary head? 34 THE MAP Places to have a dog
head to Norfolk, where they We have seven properties Guide to the dog friendly friendly day out
discover luxury for humans, for you to explore Lake District 41 WHERE TO EAT
and their hounds 32 WHERE TO WALK 38 BEACHES After a long walk in the
Everyone who goes to the Find space on one of the Lake fells, you’ll want a pint
18 CUMBRIA Lake District takes along their District’s ine beaches, far away and some grub
THE PLOUGH INN, LUPTON
Tracey Radnall visits a limestone
valley linking the Dales and
Lakes – the perfect location for a
boutique-style inn, just minutes
from the M6, and an ideal stop
-over when heading north

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 5
 Deo Na Mara
To celebrate their 13th wedding anniversary, photographer
Richard Aspinall and his wife, Angie, took a holiday to the North
West coast of Scotland with their Westies, Tilly and Henry

Henry goes walkabout

on Redpoint beach

6 DogFriendly

T
he directions say it’s the
second house on the left after
the slipway,” said Angie as we
neared our destination. That sounded
great to me; after a long drive I was
really looking forward to a sea view
and not doing a great deal for a day
or two.
We’d driven up from our home, in
the rolling hills south of Edinburgh, to
Inverness and then across to Scotland’s
north-western coast, stopping on the
way to allow our Westies to stretch
their legs. Neither of them had a clue
where we were going, of course, but
Tried & tested Scottish Highlands
in that wonderful doggy way, they
both trusted us to ensure they’d soon
be having a great time. The drive was
tiring, but once past Perth the trafic
really calmed down and the Scottish
scenery did not disappoint – forested
glens and mist-shrouded hills mixing
with rich farmland and occasional
views of the sea.
We were staying in the small hamlet
of Inverasdale on the western edge of
Loch Ewe. The geography is deeply
complicated; a great number of lochs,
freshwater and open to the sea, create
an ever-so-confusing landscape that
to use simple terms: goes in and out a
lot! It is easy to feel that you might be
on an island, such as the nearby Isle of
Skye, as you drive along quiet single-
track roads along the loch sides. The
land goes up and down a lot too and if
the air is clear you can enjoy amazing
views of hills and munros, all with
amazing Gaelic names like Siloch and
An Teallach.
Deo Na Mara – Gaelic for ‘mist
of the sea’ – is a sizeable, three-
bedroomed family house that sleeps six.
It is well-equipped and warm, with
a view of Loch Ewe.

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 7
Tried & tested Scottish Highlands
Tilly and Henry were immediately pleased important to mention that some beaches
with all the new sniffs as we let them explore are unfenced and have sheep and cattle
the secure and dog-proof garden for the grazing down to the water line on
irst time. We didn’t do much the irst day occasion, so do take care to keep dogs
other than a walk to the seaweed-clad shore. on leads if animals are present.)
Curlews and gulls called as the sea mist came We were very impressed by our
in and we called it a day. irst beach and feeling we deserved
Our irst day of exploring took us to the a treat took ourselves to the nearest
beach. Beaches are an important part of town of Gairloch for our supper.
exploring the Scottish
coast for us and much- A view to die for!
loved by the dogs, of
course. We set out along
the loch side heading
Deo Na Mara is a cosy, three bedroom
north and found our irst property with sea views that easily
beach, a glorious expanse accommodates up to six people
of ine sand backed by
dunes. Henry immediately
began to get as much sand Gairloch is a little further south than
in his fur as possible so he Inverasdale and has a working harbour on
could transfer it into the Loch Gairloch – and its own rather lovely
car. Tilly, who is getting beach a little way away from the main part of
on a bit, took her time to the town. We called at the Old Inn for freshly
explore the new smells cooked ish and chips, chosen from a menu
of seaweed and shells at replete with seafood as you’d expect. This was
the high tide line. (It is possibly the most dog friendly pub I’ve ever

The seaweed clad shoreline

is but a walk away

8 DogFriendly

been in, every table appeared to have at least
one dog underneath it, secretly – or in Henry’s
case – blatantly, waiting for a chip to fall from
a carelessly tended plate.
The next day, we explored Gairloch a
little and enjoyed the loch-side garden and
sitting area known as the ‘sitooterie’, which is
lovingly tended by volunteers. The museum
Tilly lounges
in the grass
A view of Inverasdale
and tourist information centres are worth
visiting too. We took the dogs to Gairloch
beach and I amused myself watching families
of Black-throated Divers and Red-breasted
Mergansers in the sheltered bay. If you’re
interested in birds, then this region is
really for you.
The weather in the north-west highlands
isn’t always as we’d like; Atlantic storms can
scupper your plans, but the warm, wet Gulf
Stream air does have its beneits, and when it
meets lochs and glens sheltered from the wind,
little oases of warmth are created that are
entirely unlike the rest of Scotland.
Over the years, forward-thinking gardeners
and landowners have worked with these
conditions to create gardens renowned for
their collections of semi-tropical plants, local
varieties of fruit and veg, and woodland
gardens rich with species from across the
globe. The best of these is undoubtedly
Inverewe, a mile or so from Poolewe. This is
a remarkable garden owned by the National
Trust for Scotland. It was once home to plant
On the head! collector Osgood Mackenzie and later, his
daughter Mairi. While the garden itself is not

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 9
Tried & tested Scottish Highlands
dog friendly, the wider estate does have an
excellent series of trails, on which dogs on
leads are welcome, that take you into the
surrounding forest offering chances to see
Golden eagles circling high above. The cafe
is pretty good too.
A much more dog friendly garden
is Attadale, which sits alongside the
picturesque Loch Carron. This is a smaller,
yet still wonderful mixture of fern-clad
rock sides, water gardens, and woodland.
It also has some great sculpture. When we
visited, Tilly decided she’d
walked enough and so we
let her ride in her buggy
– something she has taken
to quite happily – much
to the amusement of the
other visitors at Attadale.
Attadale in many ways is a
garden grown in response to
The gardens at
Attadale are
dog friendly
10 DogFriendly
the local weather. Not only does it celebrate
the area’s high rainfall with a series of water
gardens, but much of the tree planting was in
response to a powerful storm in 1980, which
caused a lot of damage.
Loch Carron is a beautiful sea loch, with
the village of Plockton being the most well-
known and most well-visited spot to call at.
The Plockton Hotel has a superb outdoor
sitting area from which you can enjoy a
range of local beers, and when in season
some very tasty moules et frites. Plockton
featured as the ictitious
Buggy not supp lied! village of Lochdubh in
the Hamish Macbeth
books and TV series.
It certainly is a
beautiful location.
Despite the doom- sea between the Hebrides and the mainland.
laden weather forecast We went to Redpoint which again offered an
from BBC Scotland, amazing beach which was entirely deserted
the next day dawned save for ourselves. This wasn’t always the
clear and fresh and we case, though, and a small track leads to a
opted for yet another now derelict collection of buildings on the
beach day. We headed headland. During the last war these housed
back south a little, through two six-inch guns as part of the defence of
Gairloch and round the the vital Atlantic convoys that would enter
peninsula, leaving the sheltered the safe anchorage of Loch Ewe along with
bays to a more exposed various other pieces of material. I do a
coastline, offering views across disservice of course to the men who served
to the Minch – the stretch of here with such a short description. The
Plockton on the shores
of Loch Carron
 Henry explores the
shores of Loch Carron
The memorial is dedicated to
the Russian servicemen who
lost their lives at sea
Tourist Information centre in Gairloch can
tell you much more. Today a memorial stone
dedicated to the Russian servicemen who lost
their lives at sea has been erected.
Heading back to what you often feel is best
described as the ‘mainland’ from Redpoint,
we stopped at the Badachro Inn for more
ish and chips and some Coast 500 ale.
This charming old inn sits on the loch side
offering great views of the sheltered bay as
well as the comings and goings of people
tendering themselves across from their yachts
from its outside seating area. Henry and Tilly
had an exploration of the slipway and some
of the older boats that had been dragged
Some of the older boats have been
dragged ashore and left to rot
The view from the
living room window
Cosy and warm
come to mind
ashore and were slowly rotting when we FACT FILE
caught sight of an otter – a big dog otter by
the size of him – frolicking around, catching
crabs and chewing them messily. Sadly, I
didn’t have my camera handy so I couldn’t
get a photo, but happily, the dogs didn’t spot
him otherwise barking might have ensued.
It was a truly splendid way to inish
exploring this small section of the highlands
and, as always, it was a special pleasure to
see Tilly on her travels. We’ve had her for
seven years now since her rescue. She has a
number of health conditions that restrict her
somewhat, but even so, she still managed a
good few runs on the stunning beaches.
Deo Na Mara
ADDRESS Inverasdale, Poolewe,
Northern Highlands
CONTACT 01228 406731
PRICE From £405. Sleeps six across
three generously proportioned bedrooms
sharing a single family bathroom.
The living room has leather sofas and
wonderful views across the bay.
The kitchen diner is warm and
welcoming, with a Stanley Range
heater and a large family dining table.
Accepts up to two dogs
WEBSITE scottish-cottages.co.uk
(Ref. CC511437)
www.dogfriendly.co.uk 11
Tried & tested Norfolk
Oak Tree Cottages comprises
three single storey cottages
set around and old oak tree

12 DogFriendly
Oak Tree
Cottages Jane Mynott and her partner head to
Norfolk, where they discover luxury for
humans, and their hounds
T
he weather warning for the north
Norfolk village of East Ruston
- gale force winds and heavy rain
– meant we arrived at Oak Tree Cottages
in a car overlowing with vast quantities of
waterproofs and layers.
Little had we realised that Lighthouse
Cottage, our home for two nights, would
be so luxurious and comfortable that it
really didn’t matter what the weather
was doing outside.
Less than a 10-minute drive from the
historic coastal village of Happisburgh
(pronounced ‘Haze-bruh’), Oak Tree
Cottages is a complex of three single-
storey self-catering properties set around
a – wait for it – wonderful old oak tree.
Lighthouse Cottage has two bedrooms,
each with its own en-suite shower room, so
is ideal for two couples. Our dog Rafferty
(Raff) was delighted with the walled patio
garden accessed from French doors in each
bedroom and the open plan lounge/kitchen/
diner. If that wasn’t enough space, he could
ask to go out through a wooden gate and
in to another enclosed grassed area.
The three cottages are set in an L-shaped
courtyard that all open out on to the

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 13
 I’m not moving!

enclosed lawn and Lauren Risby, one of

the owners of the family-run business, said It’s not unusual for guests
of the three cottages to get
it’s not unusual for guests to get together together in the evening
on warm evenings with their dogs as the
common interest.
“We’ve even had guests booking to all
come back on the same date so that they can
meet up again,” said Lauren. “The courtyard
just lends itself to being sociable!”
There wasn’t much outdoor socialising to
be done in early December while we were
there but nevertheless
we enjoyed
the beautifully
dressed
Christmas tree
and tasteful
decorations
throughout our
cottage. All our for working off
possible needs steam. Raff loved
had been thought having a run in
of. There was there irst thing in
an extensive the morning and we
welcome hamper (milk, bread, free range ‘I’m on really appreciated
eggs from the pet chickens, butter, biscuits, holiday’ dog the short walk along
mince pies, porridge oats and even meat- tags (printed with Oak Tree Cottages the drive to the ield
free sausages – Lauren checks dietary contact details), sofa throws, towels for rather than trying to ind safe walks in an
requirements prior to arrivals). This muddy or sandy paws, poo bags, a selection unfamiliar environment.
thoughtful touch meant no immediate dash of small toys, a travel water bottle, pet North Norfolk is home to some of the most
required to the nearest shop perfume, a dog bed and doggy treats. dog friendly beaches in the country and it
– thanks, Lauren! At Oak Tree Cottages, your dog really was fortunate that we stopped at one while
Raff was spoilt for choice too. His does come irst. A fabulous enclosed and the sun was still shining on our journey
welcome hamper included water/food bowls, well-drained grassed ield is also available to the cottages.

14 DogFriendly

Just three miles from East Ruston is a
somewhat unspoilt gem – Cart Gap beach
(no dog restrictions). Located at the end
of a narrow, single-track lane, the beach is
somewhat off the beaten track. As with all the
beaches along this stretch of coast, Cart Gap
is sandy. It also faces the same issues with
erosion so the beach is divided up by wooden
groynes and backed by a seawall.
This is just the sort of environment that
Raff adores – unlimited snifing, exploring,
climbing and jumping in every direction! He
The cottages come
with their own
enclosed field
Tried & tested Norfolk
View from the beach to Happisburgh
greeted and played with every other dog he ensure we captured some shots of its
saw and made sure that we stopped to chat famous red and white striped lighthouse.
to their owners too. There’s no getting away Happisburgh Lighthouse is the oldest
from the fact that you make more friends working one in East Anglia and the only
when you have a dog! independently run lighthouse
You can pretty Jumping Jack flash! in the UK. Built in 1790,
much stroll as far the tower is 85ft tall and the
as you like along lantern is 134ft above sea
the beach in either level with a range of
direction and so 18 miles.
we headed to Saved by the local
Happisburgh to community, the lighthouse
is maintained and operated
entirely by voluntary
contributions. Time your visit
accordingly and you will be
able to climb the 112 steps
to the lantern.
A little way back up
the lane from Cart Gap beach car park is
Smallsticks Cafe (smallstickscafe.co.uk).
Set in an old lint barn, this tearoom offers
a selection of hot and cold drinks, snacks
and meals (dogs allowed in the garden only
so we didn’t try this time round as it was
bitterly cold).
There are numerous dog friendly
attractions within a half-hour drive of Oak
Tree Cottages and so, after a cosy night

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 15
Tried & tested Norfolk
I’ll just rest here

drifting off to the sounds of a blustery gale

There are many great
Suchtraffic-free
a prancer
outside, we decided to head to one of our walks direct from your door
favourite places in the UK – Overstrand.
The village is situated on a clifftop
overlooking more beautiful beaches. There
is a lovely clifftop path that takes you to
Cromer, around one and a half miles away.
Sleepy Overstrand boasts a village shop,
post ofice, pub, hotel and cafe. And it was to
the Cliff Top Cafe that we headed on a very
wet and wild morning
(clifftopholidays.co.uk). I know you’ve got
treats somewhere
The cafe has served
home cooked food
from a truly fabulous
position, overlooking
the sea, since 1925 and
it’s a very special place
to sit, relax and let the Recently redecorated co.uk)). Raff was very interested to meet
world pass you by. It’s inside and out to include friendly cafe chef, Jonathan, who was happy
also an excellent stop bi-folding glass doors to offer him some doggy treats.
to rest and refuel after a along one wall, dogs on We spent a pleasant, cosy, hour in the cafe
bracing walk along the leads are very welcome with our coffee and cake, ‘talking all things
beach (restrictions on the (the cafe stocks Norfolk dog’ with other customers and watching the
central beach only in the home-baked Pooch’s skies darken again over a stormy sea. This is
summer months). dog treats (poochs. what seaside breaks are made of!

16 DogFriendly
 KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY From left, Andy with Eloise,
Lauren and Chris Risby run Oak Tree Lauren with James, Chris,
Cottages alongside Lauren’s parents, Sandra and Arna.
Sandra and Andy. They bought the
business in East Ruston in October 2018
after years of holidaying in the area. With
two children, James, five, and Eloise, two,
and Arna and Lilly, the family’s dogs,
they were attracted to Norfolk’s fabulous
beaches and its dog friendly ethos.
“Having our own dogs, we knew that if
we were going to do this venture it would
have to be dog friendly,” said Lauren. “We
used to stay in some great places, but
before letting our dogs in the cottage, we
would ‘dog proof’ them.”
The family is currently working on a
new luxury cottage, The Forge. Perfect for
couples looking to get away from it all, the
two-storey quaint cottage will have all the
extra touches such as a king size bed, fluffy
dressing gowns and the all-important log
burner.
Once The Forge is up and running (by
May 2020 at the latest), the family then
aim to further upgrade the grounds. There A wood burner makes
is already an enclosed field for dogs! for cosy nights in

The tasteful Enjoying a romp Make yourself

decor extends on the beach at home
to the inside

Heading outside, we could see that
the clifftop walk to Cromer would be
somewhat challenging in high winds and
so, instead, we did a good walk around the
many interesting roads and side streets of
Overstrand. In the latter part of the 19th
century, the village became known as ‘the
village of millionaires’, attracting many rich
and famous people from the London theatre
world and, as a result, Overstrand contains
some ine and unusual properties.
With the rain battering against the car
windscreen, we decided to head back ‘home’
to Lighthouse Cottage. An afternoon of
reading (for us) and snoozing on the sofa (for
Raff) beckoned. We were very impressed that
within a couple of minutes of texting Lauren,
husband Chris arrived to show us how to
operate the underloor heating system.
A carpenter by trade, Chris is an active
volunteer crew member at the RNLI’s
Happisburgh Lifeboat Station and also enjoys
nothing more than photographing the many
gorgeous landscapes that the county offers.
Indeed, several of his pictures adorn the
walls of the cottages.
We were extremely impressed by the
attention to detail around the complex.
We’ve holidayed numerous times with Raff
and it’s never been ‘quite right’. However,
Chris, Lauren and her parents have worked
their magic and really do offer guests
a luxury experience.
We are already planning a longer holiday
back to Oak Tree Cottages later in 2020.
Think we’re going to have to sort it out
pretty quickly, though, because once word
gets out, it’s going to be tricky to book.
FACT FILE
Oak Tree Cottages
ADDRESS Church Farm, Church Farm
Road, East Ruston NR12 9HJ
PRICE From April to October, bookings
are available for seven nights (Fri–Fri) and
start at £540. From November to March,
costs start at £340 for weekend breaks
(fireman, Fri–Mon) or midweek breaks
(Mon–Fri). Oak Tree Cottages tries to be
as flexible as possible and also offers two-
night stays from as little as £250. Contact
them if you have any dates in mind, so
that they can tailor a price to suit you.
There is no additional charge for dogs
and up to
four are allowed.
CONTACT Call Lauren Risby on
01692 773259 or email bookings@
oaktreecottages.co.uk

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 17
Bertie takes to the rocks
near the river Lune

18 DogFriendly
 Tried & tested Cumbria

The Plough Inn makes a welcome change

to featureless motorway hotels

The Plough
Inn, Lupton
Tracey Radnall visits a limestone valley linking the
Dales and Lakes – the perfect location for a boutique
-style inn, just minutes from the M6, and an ideal
stopover when traversing the length of the country
WALKS

Devil’s Bridge walk
Free car park, toilets (coins needed)
Sat Nav LA6 2DF
Distance 1½ miles, 40 mins
Height 40 metres
OS map Explorer OL2, Yorkshire
Dales – southern and western.
Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery bar
and shop
Hutton Roof Crags
A fine walk from Lupton Beck
along a track to Newbiggin Crags
and Farleton Fell. Or park in
Hutton Roof and walk from the
opposite direction.
Distance 7 miles, 3 hours.
Height: 255 metres
OS map Explorer OL7,
English Lakes – south east.
stabbsvisitorcentre.co.uk
I
am on a road-trip from Warwickshire
to Scotland, seeking a stop-over en-
route. Lupton is an ideal location and
a welcome alternative to characterless
motorway motels. The Plough Inn dates
from the 1760s. The traditional roadside inn
appears, from the outside at least, much like
many others, with the addition of a huge cast-
iron shire horse adjacent to the entrance.
Inside is a blend of modern rustic charm,
very much of the popular hygge style with
woollen leece-topped bar stools and neutral
colours blending nicely with enormous oak
beams. Refurbished eight years ago the
space comprises an open-plan dog friendly
bar, dining and lounge areas and, a separate
dining/function room – all with wood-
burning stoves. Upstairs has been converted
into six luxury rooms, each individually
designed. With my best pal, Bertie, in tow
it is also a great base to explore both the Lake
District and the Yorkshire Dales on foot
– a perfect retreat for a midweek or a
weekend escape.
The nearby town of Kirkby Lonsdale sits
on the spot where Lancashire, Yorkshire and
Westmorland meet, with a choice of walks
within a 10-mile radius. We stop off at the
popular car park next to the river Lune to
walk along the banks and ascend the 86 steps
to take in Ruskin’s View. I’ve heard of it but
have never been. With a lovely September
day – my favoured month – it’s like a virtual
hug with warm sun, berries in the hedgerows
and maturing leafy shades of green and
amber. Smashing.

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 19
Tried & tested Cumbria

The Devil’s Bridge is a handsome old after a mile or so, the path along the banks
limestone bridge adjacent to a busy (free) car links to the Radical Steps and subsequent
park with comfort facilities (not free, 20p). view. Built in 1819 by Francis Pearson,
The origin of the bridge’s name is shrouded coined the ‘Radical’ steps by the locals, due
in folklore involving a dog, a retrieved bun to Pearson’s political persuasion (who, no
and the devil, which I’ll not indulge you. doubt would recoil at the radical politics
Sufice to say, today the bridge playing out today)!
is merely the location led Ascending them,
The Radical Steps, so cal
of foolish daredevilry r’s though, is not a
because of their builde
performed by local political leanin gs drastic effort, uniting
youths leaping into the river with
the deep waters of Church Brow and
the river Lune below. the lofty ‘Ruskin’s artistically proportioned, quintessential
There is a sign warning View. Described English landscape with the arching ribbon
folk not to do this by John Ruskin as of water uniting the leafy studded meadows
or face being ined. “the loveliest view and lofty hills beyond.
Actually there are in England and A more strenuous walk can be found at
many signs along the therefore the world”. the curiously named Hutton Roof Crags. A
banks of the popular The scene, painted limestone pavement ridge formed millions
Lune including one that by JMW Turner of years ago by a shallow sedimentary sea-
politely requests that ‘in in 1816 makes bed. Over time rainwater formed grikes or
common decency’ one is it a ‘must visit’ rummels giving the surface a very distinctive
to clear-up any fouling place while in the formation. This, apparently, is one of the best
committed by your dog. neighbourhood examples in the world and a Site of Special
The Lune is a with extensive Scientiic Interest with great views from the
beautiful river with views across to lunar like landscape.
huge limestone boulders The Howgills After our walk along the Lune, Bertie
washed by a perpetual (676m). It is indeed and I returned to relax at The Plough and
rush of water. Eventually, a very pleasing, our base for the night. Our room, ‘Hutton’,

20 DogFriendly
 Ruskins view!

The bar plays

host to locals and
residents alike

features views up to Hutton Roof and “And does he work”? enquires the woman. and landmarks followed by a nice fresh room
Farleton Fell (265m), a former beacon hill “Oh yes, he’s a model”, I reply. They both somewhere that obviously isn’t home…
used to warn of ‘Scottish Irruptions’. look at me as if I have already had one too The following morning I am reluctant to
It’s actually more of a suite than a room. many Monumentals! The rise from the incredibly
The door opens to reveal an entrance fact is Bertie the spaniel comfy bed. We take a walk
lobby area with a mini bar leading into the has been on many trips around the small elevated
comfortable bedroom with a separate, huge with me now. He knows lawn at the rear of the pub
bathroom complete with roll-top bath and the form – involving a taking in the views of the
enclosed shower room. I decide on a slow jolly walk somewhere Farleton look-out peaking
soak, taking in the views of the limestone with a camera – lots above the early morning
crags beyond the window. of demands for posing valley mist. I take a shower
All residents automatically have a table next to beauty spots in the large shower room
booked at 7pm in the bar, a nice touch
adding to the relaxed approach of this ine
old inn. The menu features many specials
and tempting dishes such as: roast cod loin,
Cumbrian burger, wild boar and damson
sausage, as well as many veggie options.
I plump for the steak and ale pie from the
specials menu. The bar serves an array of
gins and ales. I opt for a pint of Monumental
(4.5ABV), brewed by the nearby Kirkby
Lonsdale Brewery.
Although it’s a Monday evening, the inn is
busy, with both residents and locals – always
a good indicator. The couple on the table
next to me are travelling to Bedford from The comfortable
Cumbria. They enquire as to the breed of lounge, with wood


burner on the go
my dog. “He’s a working cocker”, I reply.

DogFriendly 21
Tried & tested Cumbria
The Hutton is more of a
suite than a room!

A room
with a view!

– and the only

proper Lakes-style
four-legged
friend and I are
FACT FILE
drenching – before on our way north
an early breakfast on a quieter
of cereal, yoghurt section of the
and toast. The M6, before we
fresh coffee is straddle Border
excellent, just the country and
trick before a long home.
day of driving and Contemporary,
meetings. At 08:30 the kitchen earthy, ‘hygge’-style luxury. Great food and The Plough, Lupton
provides cooked breakfast till 09:30 cracking beer. Exceptional value rooms. ADDRESS Cow Brow, Lupton,
comprising eggy brioche and an array There is some road noise but the comfort Cumbria LA6 1PJ
of full English derivations. more than makes up for it. Request a rear CONTACT 01539 567700
PRICES Twin, doubles from £85 per
Within minutes of departing the inn, my -facing room for the best views. night. Hutton, bed and breakfast, £125.
Dinner bed and breakfast, from £145.
November/December (not including the
festive season). Special price,
£120. Dog(s), £15.

ACCOMMODATION
Six luxury individually
designed rooms and
suites. We stayed in
Bertie, the ‘Hutton’ at the rear
‘working’ Cocker of the hotel on the
top floor, quieter than
the rooms that face
the busy A65. Features
spacious entrance lobby
with mini bar. Main king-size
double room with fresh coffee and tea
making, TV, wifi, plus a large bathroom
with free standing roll-top bath-tub,
separate walk-in ‘rain’ shower for
a Lakes style drenching.

WEBSITE theploughatlupton.co.uk

22 DogFriendly
 Tracker reviews

Which dog
tracker?
We take a number of popular trackers available on the market and give
them to some hounds and their owners to test. Here are the results

WHAT IS A DOG TRACKER AND WHY

WOULD YOU USE ONE?
A GPS dog tracker
can transmit your
dog’s location from a
device your pet wears
to an app on your
phone or a handheld
device. There are
several different
types of trackers
that work in different
ways. Cellular GPS
trackers use cellular
data to determine
the GPS location
of the tracking
device on an app
on your phone.
Trackers are
PIC© SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

useful if your dog

is prone to running
off after small
animals or getting
lost in unfamiliar
territories. Some trackers
are designed specifically to monitor
your dog’s fitness and health.


www.dogfriendly.co.uk 23
 Tracker reviews

CONSIDERATIONS FOR
BUYING A TRACKER…
1 Fitness or just tracking
dog location
2 Cost of ongoing subscription
per month per year
3 Accuracy of tracking in urban
and rural settings
5 Battery life
6 Customer service for ongoing or
set up issues – UK or abroad?
6 Look for reviews on trackers
wherever possible
PIC© SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

24 DogFriendly
Some of the popular dog trackers
There is a large range of trackers on the market. The diiculty is deciding which one to choose
from. The key things to consider are whether you want it for itness or tracking, how long the
battery life is, how accurate the tracking is. One thing we think is key is the diference between
using it in a rural or urban environment where the GPS signal is stronger. Below we have a
number of tracker options and independent short reviews.

Mishiko Kippy Evo

Advertised price: £99
Subscription: £4.49
per month
Mishiko is a
2-in-1 device
for your dog.
It’s a GPS
Tracker &
bespoke fitness
planner to help
you track and keep your
dog healthy longer.
“Overall this tracker didn’t
achieve expectations. On a
local walk it’s tracking detail
was okay but once out in more
rural areas it’s tracking and
mapping of a walk became
poor and unusable, while
mobile signal strength was
relatively strong. On occasion
it would show Dazy some 3
miles away when she was 50
yards from me. Also failed to
track whole walks.”
David G Brant and Dazy
Advertised price: £79
Subscription: £3.55 per month (Vodafone network)
Kippy Evo Pet Tracker & Activity Monitor for pets: resistant
and 100% waterproof, suitable for all collars. Only 38
grams and with a long-lasting rechargeable battery
(10 days).
“I was impressed with the Kippy – it did what it said on the
tin. It’s tracker speed, accuracy and mapping remained good
whether on a local
walk or when we
took Theo along the
Jurassic Coastline. I
really like the fact it
told me how many
steps Theo had done
that day.” Karen
Smith and Theo
(reviewing a previous
version of the Kippy)

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 25
Tracker reviews

PIC© SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
A tracker can be used
to assess your dog’s
fitness levels

Fitbark 2 The Findster

Advertised price: Advertised price: £139
£169.90 Subscription: £0 per month
Subscription: £0
per month Real time GPS pet locator
and a pet activity tracker
FitBark monitors without monthly fees. Health
your dog’s everyday Monitoring. Live GPS Tracking.
location, activity and No mobile coverage needed.
sleep and turns it into Waterproof. No monthly fees.
actionable behavioural
and medical insights. Fitness at both ends of the leash! “Dog Tracker appeared well made
and durable although both units ‘on/off’ buttons blend too
“As the name suggests the FitBark tracker is primarily used to well with the case. If swapped they would contrast and stand
monitor your dog’s health and activity. But I was impressed out better in low light conditions.
with its tracking and accuracy on route. It was reasonably easy “However, the attachment is very well designed and a joy
to set up… once left charging overnight it was easy to install. It to use. The key ring attachment on the guardian (pouch to
suggests levels of activity appropriate for your dog and as Libby hold the tracker on the collar) does not look durable. Perhaps
was a senior dog I chose the lowest setting of 5300 fitbark points. consider a metal split ring. The charger is superb – wish my
It was clear early on that this was too low as a target so we mobile phone was as good.”
increased it.” Rachel West and Libby Tony Stockman and Ralph

Tractive Most
recommended
Advertised price: £44.99 by DogFriendly
Subscription: £3.33 per month members
The Tractive GPS DOG tracker allows you to keep tabs
on your dog’s location by showing their exact location via
the free Tractive GPS app. You can also view your dog’s activity
information and see how much they are moving throughout the
day so that you can stay on top of their health and fitness.

“Tractive is good. I have been using one for about two years.
It’s accurate and reliable with great battery life. It can be a little slow
on start up, but good once live. Cheap, I think, but there is the
subscription but that’s not too bad.” Kate Armstrong

“Have used a cheap one off Amazon (TK Star), then the old and now new versions from Tractive. Newest version from Tractive
is by far the best. Small and discreet. Also tracks activity.” Matt Hart

26 DogFriendly
 Why vi si t
THE LAKE DISTRICT
16-PAGE GUIDE Oh, the views!

INSIDE THIS EDITION

28 WHERE TO STAY
Looking for somewhere to lay
your weary head? We have seven
properties for you to explore
32 WHERE TO WALK
Everyone who goes to the Lake
District takes along their walking
boots! Here are a few ine trails
34 THE MAP
Guide to the dog friendly Lake District
38 BEACHES
Find space on one of the Lake
District’s ine beaches, far away from
the ‘madding crowds’
40 DAYS OUT
Places to have a dog friendly day out
41 WHERE TO EAT
After a long walk in the fells, you’ll
want a pint and some grub

Out & About 27
Why visit The Lake District

Where to stay After walking all day, you will be looking for somewhere
to lay your weary head. We have seven properties from
which you can plan your next exploration

Dogs 2
Sleeps
CATBELLS 6
LOCATION Keswick
PRICE from £515 per week
Catbells is a four-bedroomed detached cottage, a short walk
from the town centre of Keswick. The cottage is traditionally
built, situated on a quiet residential road and would be ideal for
families or friends wanting to discover the Lake District.
Catbells accommodation is roomy and modern with two first
floor bedrooms, one double en-suite and one single bedroom that share a bathroom.
Continuing to the second floor you will find a further double bedroom and a single bedroom.
The ground floor accommodation offers an open plan lounge/diner that will seat all of your
guests while enjoying a home cooked meal and a cosy wood burning stove, with luxurious
furnishings that compliment the whole house. The kitchen has all of the important appliances you
will need. There is a delightful shared garden with your own private seating area, a nice place to
unwind with your pets. Catbells is a fantastic house, perfect for exploring Keswick
and Derwentwater with its wealth of shops, restaurants and pubs.
www.dogfriendly.co.uk/catbells

28 DogFriendly
 The Lakes will leave you
itching to return

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www.dogfriendly.co.uk 29
Why visit The Lake District
Dogs 2-4
Dogs 2 Sleeps
GROOM’S QUARTERS Sleeps WEST VIEW 4
LOCATION Grange-over-Sands 2 BEACH HOUSE
PRICE from £268 per week ADDRESS Nethertown,
A lovely, cosy semi-detached, this Cartmel cottage is perfect for couples Cumbria CA22 2UW
seeking a relaxing getaway. With open plan accommodation downstairs CONTACT 07920 025888
and well-appointed decor, this cottage is sure to please. The bedroom at PRICE from £125 per night
this cottage can be arranged as either a twin room or a king-size double West View is a newly
and there is a lovely outlook from the Juliet balcony over the croquet renovated luxury property
lawn and grounds towards the driveway. located directly on
Superb walks can be enjoyed from the door, including a pleasant Nethertown beach. It is in
ramble up to the ‘Hospice of Hampsfell’, a viewing tower providing a peaceful area with amazing sea views. It is great for fishing, has lots
panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. of wildlife and has the most stunning sunsets.
The bedroom has an en-suite bath, shower over, basin and WC. Open In winter, enjoy cosy evenings with the log fire lit and watch the waves
plan living area roll in. It is an ideal base for exploring the western Lake District and
with fitted Cumbrian coast. It is also surrounded by scenic walks and activities.
kitchen, dining It is close to St Bees coast-to-coast walk too.
area and sitting This property is all about its amazing location. It has a large decked
area with gas fire. area with steps leading onto the pebble beach – the ideal place to
It has an external sit with your favourite drink and admire the ever-changing views.
utility. With mountains to one side, views of the Isle of Man and such
www. a quiet beach, it is simply the perfect spot.
dogfriendly. The beach is dog friendly. It is also a great place for exploring
co.uk/ rockpools with the kids.
groomsquarters This open plan property is ideal for all ages. With lots of seating
areas and two large double bedrooms. The kitchen is equipped with
everything you need and there is a four-seater dining table.
www.dogfriendly.co.uk/westview

MELBOURNE HOUSE
LOCATION Coniston
PRICE from £56 per night
Melbourne House, a characterful Lakeland
stone cottage, sits in the heart of the friendly
village of Coniston and makes a charming
base for a rural retreat with your friends or
family. Enter your home-from-home from
the parking area and be welcomed into a
delightful breakfast kitchen, lined with vibrant
red worktops and offering a breakfast table
to enjoy your morning meals at before each
day begins. The original slate flooring leads
you into a living and dining room, which
boasts enticing red sofas and a beautiful rustic Dogs 3
woodburner. A lovely dining area completes
Sleeps
the layout. The ground floor of the property
7
concludes with a neutrally decorated double
bedroom. Two further bedrooms are found on
the first floor; a family room and a twin zip/link
room offer flexible accommodation. A family
shower room completes this level.
Take advantage of this spectacular rural as the Ruskin Museum and the picture-perfect
location from the comfort of your lawned Coniston Water. Hawkshead and Ambleside
garden, the picnic bench showcases the most lie nearby, while a trip further afield takes
wonderful fell views. A short stroll brings you you to the superb inland resort of Bowness
into Coniston, a quaint village with a choice of -on-Windermere.
charming pubs, restaurants and cafes, as well www.dogfriendly.co.uk/melbourne

Picture perfect Coniston Water

is a short stroll away
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30 DogFriendly

ANGORI
LOCATION Kirkby Stephen
PRICE from £291 per week
This end of terrace cottage is situated over
three floors and lies within the small historic
village of Brough. Boasting three bedrooms,
this retreat is ideal for a family or set of
couples, looking for a memorable getaway.
Upon entering, the kitchen is on the right
and is complete with all those essentials you
may need. In the morning hours you can sit at
the breakfast bar with a cup of tea and plan
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out your adventures.
At the end of the
corridor is an open
plan living and dining
area, which makes a
cosy set up for enjoying those home cooked
meals before relaxing on the sofa in front of
the fire. Take the stairs and you will arrive at a
double bedroom, with plenty of storage space.
After waking up, you can wander over to
the balcony down the hall, and rest outside
to be at one with the peace and quiet and
Dogs 2
Sleeps
6
beautiful hillside views.
A family bathroom lies
nearby. The second floor is
home to a twin bedroom
overlooked by ceiling beams
and another double bedroom for guests.
The village of Brough is surrounded by
traditional farm meadows and picturesque
pastures and fells. Nearby, the traditional
market town of Kirkby Stephen hosts a variety
of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs.
www.dogfriendly.co.uk/angori

The look out!

BYRE COTTAGE Dogs 2 THE COACH HOUSE

LOCATION Alston Sleeps LOCATION Grange-over-Sands Dogs 2
PRICE from £261 per week 2 PRICE from £293 per week Sleeps
A beautiful one bedroom A detached former coach house, this Cartmel cottage 2
retreat situated on the is located next to the walled kitchen-garden and is
outskirts of Garrigill, close surrounded by beautiful grounds and established trees. With
to Alston; in an Area of open plan accommodation and a feature fireplace, this cottage is the
National Beauty, with views perfect base to return to after an exciting day exploring the region.
sweeping out across the Upstairs, the jewel in the crown of this cottage is the exceptional four
hillside and beyond. Perfectly suited for couples, Byre Cottage has its own poster bed, complete with drapes, and the en-suite bathroom
veranda overlooking the dreamy landscape, and an enclosed front lawn. containing a lovely roll-top bath.
This destination can be appreciated all-year-round, the owner’s even One four poster double bedroom with en-suite free-standing
provide a lovely welcome pack to ensure you feel settled upon arrival. bath, basin and
Discover the wonderful open-plan living area, including a fold-out WC. Open plan
dining table and a country-cottage kitchen with all of the essentials living area with
you are going to need. The ground floor is finished with a shower room. fitted kitchen,
Upstairs, the king-size bedroom is where you will want to be, relaxing dining area
under the contemporary skylight windows, amid front-facing views and sitting area
which invite the glorious outside in. with gas fire.
Be at one with the location however you choose, the centre of the www.
village is the green, a post office and village store, St John’s church and dogfriendly.
the village hall, all are nearby. The C2C cycle route passes through the co.uk/
village. At Ashgillside and Beldy there are waterfalls namely Ashgill Force thecoachhouse
and Thortergill Force, and the Pennine Way passes through the village
on its way from Dufton via Cross Fell, Great Dun Fell and on to Alston.
www.dogfriendly.co.uk/byrecottage

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 31
he bst walks
Everyone who goes to the Lake District.
The views from Alcock Tarn
are breathtaking

takes along their walking boots! We have.

a few ine trails to get you started.

Start: Grasmere shop,

grid ref: NY337074

Difficulty Moderate Time 2–3 hours Distance 3.7 miles Map Explorer Map OL7

ALCOCK TARN WALK

This walk has some steep sections but with a bench partway up from which to enjoy the views. With the
fantastic views and a great place to have lunch by beautiful little Alcock Tarn, this is a great walk

1 From outside the Grasmere

Shop, turn left and follow
the road through the village
and up to the main road, cross
the main road with care and
follow the minor road opposite
between the car park and the
Swan Hotel. After about half
a mile turn right at the finger
post signed ‘Greenhead Gill
and Alcock Tarn’. Follow the
lane to the top with the stream
tumbling alongside.
3 Continue on the ascending
path following the wall then
continue on the path as it leaves
the wall and goes up more
steeply, zig-zagging up the fell
side. Continue climbing up to
a rocky outcrop.
4 Go left of the rocks to the
cairn and then onto the
flatter, often wet, flat area until
you reach a metal gate and
Alcock Tarn.
5 The tarn provides a great
place for a paddle to cool
the feet and also a lovely spot
to eat a picnic lunch. When the
time comes to head down walk
along the right-hand side of the
tarn and head for a gateless gap
in the wall.
6 Follow the path through the
gap in the wall and start
the descent over a short rocky
section of path overlooking the
views as you descend. As the
path goes steeply down, go
through a gate past a bench
and then a man-made pond
(which dates back to this area
being a gentleman’s landscaped
woodland garden).
7 At the junction in the path
turn left. Continue through
the metal gate and through the
woods until you reach the road.

2 At the top of the lane, step

onto the fell side and turn
vale of Grasmere. Take in the
8 Turn right and follow the
road which will lead you
down the hill. Turn right at the
right and go over the bridge. junction on to a minor road to
Follow the path as it bends right take you past Dove Cottage and
and then left following the line the Wordsworth Trust Museum
of the wall. You will reach a until you come to the A591.
bench from which you can enjoy Cross with care and follow the
magnificent views. B5287 back into Grasmere.

32 DogFriendly

Difficulty Moderate Time 3 hours Distance 2.8 miles Map OS Explorer OL7
SIZERGH TO PARK END MOSS
This walk takes you through historic parkland, ancient woodlands and includes a bird hide
– perfect for spotting the species which call Sizergh home
1 Leave Sizergh car park at
the north side and take
a left onto Ashbank lane, which
is an old drovers track. The lane
rises and the drops down to
a large gate.
2 Go through the gate, onto
Flashbank. Follow the track
as it hugs the old deer park wall,
until you come to a large field
gate. Go through the gate and
continue on the track.
3 Go through another large
deer park gate and cross
Brigsteer Road, into a small
informal car park in the wood.
Start: Sizergh
Castle, near Kendal,
Cumbria, LA8 8DZ
Go around the gate crossing
the track at the back of the car
park and follow it into Brigsteer
Park Wood.
4 Follow the track down
into the wood, past an
information sign on your left.
When the path forks take the
left route, which goes downhill.
The whole woodland is on a
west facing slope, which means
it gets lots of sunshine.
5 Follow the path to the
bottom of the hill, and take
a right onto the public footpath
at the bottom of the wood.
Sizergh castle
Why visit The Lake District
Almost immediately you’ll come
upon a small spring to cross.
This is a level path. Follow this
path all the way through the
wood, until you reach a gate
onto Park End Meadow.
6 If you would like to visit the
Park End Wetland hide take
a left, through a gate and onto
the track that leads to the hide.
Otherwise, follow the path up
the hill and across the field, until
you are at a gate opposite
Park End Farm house.
7 Cross the road, walk through
the small farmyard and
follow the path up the steep hill
towards a couple of houses and
the beck. Once at the top, pause
to catch your breath and enjoy
the views behind you over the
wetland and beyond
to Morecambe Bay.
8 Go through the gate and
turn right up a track, which
comes out at the bottom of
Church Fell. Follow the path to
the right as it stays close to the
wall. This brings you out onto
stony track. Follow the track past
a cattle grid and down the hill.
9 Follow the track as it
comes to an old farmhouse
(Holeslack) and a farmyard.
Cross through the farmyard,
which is flanked by a traditional
orchard, and keep on the track
as you go through a large gate
across the track.
10 Once through the gate,
there’s another small
gate on your right, which takes
you down a few steps and onto
a footpath through Rash Spring
Wood. Follow the path all the
way through the wood until you
reach a barn with a small yard.
11 From the small yard, you
should be able to see
the castle. Go through a large
gate and out onto a track which
heads downhill. At the bottom
of the hill, keep straight, through
a gate onto a smaller stoned
footpath which leads you back
to the main car park at Sizergh.

There’s plenty of
opportunities to let
your dog run free
www.dogfriendly.co.uk 33
he bst walks
Start: Aira Force
National Trust
car park, grid ref:
NY400200
Map Landranger
90, Explorer OL5
Difficulty Moderate Time 1½–3 hrs Distance 4½ miles
GOWBARROW TRAIL
Experience Aira Force at its best as you head towards the thunderous roar of the waterfalls,
then enjoy expansive views over Ullswater from the summit of Gowbarrow
1 Take the waterfall path
out of the top end of the
car park, through the picnic
field. Follow the path and head
through a gateway in the wall
into a grassy area known as
the Glade.
2 Take the left hand path
through the arboretum
and follow the path up to a
little wooden gate on your left,
which has superb views out over
Ullswater to the left. Don’t go
through the gate but follow the
path to the right, drop down a
long steep flight of steps to the
viewing platform at the base of
the waterfall. Continue over the
bridge and climb the steep steps
on the left.
3 At the top of the steps, bear
left to the upper bridge for a
view down Aira Force. Rejoin the
main path and walk upstream
keeping the river on your left as
you go. Keep going till the path
takes you through a gap in the
wall and then through a gate
onto open farmland.
34 DogFriendly
4 Before you get to the next
gate in the wall ahead
turn right up the field and take
the permissive path to the fell
gate. Keeping the wall on your
left continue up the fellside
on a good stone pitched path
maintained by the Fix The
Fells project.
5 Once the path flattens out
and bears away from the
wall follow the path up to the
trig point on the summit of
Gowbarrow. From here you
have fine views all round.
Aira Force in all its glory
This walk offers extensive
views over Ullswater
DUMFRIES
GALLOWAY
Irish Sea
6 On leaving the summit,
continue along the path
keeping parallel with the wall
on your left. Follow the path
down, bearing right until you
reach the ruin of an old shooting a ve n
i teh
lodge. Keeping right, continue Wh
up and around the eastern flank
of Gowbarrow.  scot
e
Sea
7 A good path takes you to
the brow and down to an
obvious cairn. Go over a fence
B
stile to the superb vantage point
up the head of the lake from
the point marked on the map as
Memorial Seat. Go back over the
stile and bear left, staying on the
path towards the woodlands.
8 At the bottom of the slope
you will see across the field
a building known as Lyulph’s
Tower (private). It was built as
a hunting lodge by the Howard
family in the 18th century.
Just before the woodland take
the left hand fork then go
through a gate to rejoin the
footpath bearing left back to
the Glade and car park.
 Why visit The Lake District

& Gretna Greeen

Y Haltwhistle
Brampton

Carlisle

Wigton
LAKE Alston

Aspatria DISTRICT BYRE COTTAGE

Maryport
LAKE DISTRICT
NATIONAL PARK

Cockermouth Bassenthwaite Penrith

Keswick
AIRA
Visitor centre FORCE Appleby-in-Westmorland
Crummock
Whitehaven Water Derwentwater Ullswater
ch
B ea Buttermere
Cat Bells
Glenriding Shap
Cleaton Moor
Castle Crag Thirlmere
St Bees Hartsop Hawswater
Head ANGORI BROUGH
Alcock
ch Egremont THE BRIDGE Kirkby Stephen
e B ea HOTEL CUCKOO BROW Tarn
INN
KINGS ARMS Grasmere
Ravenstonedale
WEST VIEW
Nether Wast Water Ambleside
Wasdale WATEREDGE INN
BEACH HOUSE WATERMILL INN
Seascale High Close
Windermere
ch RATTLE GHYLL
B ea
sc ale Ravenglass Coniston RYDAL
Sea Water CAVE

ach
Muncaster Castle GRIZEDALE &
WHINLATTER FLYING PIG Kendal Sedbergh
l a s s Be Ravenglass & FORESTS
Hawes
e ng
Ra v Eskdale Railway
MELBOURNE
Windermere Oxenholme
HOUSE Coniston
Launch
MAP ILLUSTRATION: TRACEY RADNALL

Silecroft Sizergh NT
h
Millom
e ac
cro ft B ch Ulverston Grange-over-Sands
Si l e B ea
M illom GROOM’S
QUARTERS
Ingleton
THE COACH
HOUSE

Barrow-in-Furness
Morecambe
Bay
YORKSHIR
Walney
Lighthouse
www.dogfriendly.co.uk 35
he bst walks Trees, trees, everywhere

Start: YHA Langdale,

High Close,
Loughrigg, Ambleside
LA22 9HJ. Grid ref
NY338052

Difficulty Moderate Time 1½ hrs Distance 1.2 miles Map OS: Explorer OL7

HIGH CLOSE TREE TRAIL

Originally worked as a hill farm, this walk takes you through the arboretum, which is now home to a range of interesting trees

1 Start the trail from the

wooden gates of the main
YHA car park. Here you’ll see
6 After a few hundred metres
along the path on your left
is a Grand Fir.
a wooden gate and follow the
iron railings until you reach
a second gate to take you
with specimen conifers planted
around 150 years ago.

two of the largest trees in

the arboretum.
7 Follow the arrows to lead
you to the next tree to the
into Low Wood. The track gets
a little more rough, steep and
muddy from here.
10 Head down the hill on
the path staying within
the woodlands. The next tree

2 Growing right next door

to the Wellingtonia is
right of the path.

9 Follow the Victorian

on the trail is a large lime on the
field boundary to your left.
a Sitka spruce.
8 The trail now ventures into
Low Wood, outside of the
carriage track down into
the woodlands, arrows will
11 Follow the path along

3 Go through the black metal

gates onto the terrace with
views of the surrounding fells. Go
true arboretum. Follow the path
from the Monterey pine passing
point the way. There’s a mix
of native hazel, oak and beech
the fence line for 100m
and take the right fork at
the arrow.
down some steps to the left and
through the black metal gates.
Follow the path straight on. 12 From the Scots’ pine
head up hill to the final
tree, one of several Japanese red

4 Follow the path from the

Noble Fir for about 100m.
On your left you’ll see a small
cedars at High Close. After this
follow the arrows to guide you
back to the carriage track.
Fitzroya tree growing inside
a wooden cage.
13 Once you rejoin the
track head back uphill

5 Follow the path down the

hill to the next sign, staying
within the arboretum.
to the arboretum. Turn left after
the wooden gate will get you
back to the car park from where
you started.

36 DogFriendly

Difficulty Moderate Time 3–4 hours 15 mins Distance 5 miles Map OL4 Explorer
SEATOLLER – THE SCENIC ROUTE
Climbing Castle Crag from Seatoller starts with a bit of a climb, then follows a rolling contour route giving
you great views right down the valley. This is definitely the civilised way to climb Castle Crag
1 Leave the car park through
the gate at the far corner.
Follow the track and take the left
hand fork. At the stream, turn
left climbing towards a line of
four Scots pine trees. At the trees
turn right joining the main track
then follow the track as it curves
left through the gate. Follow the
track through the next two gates
and through a small coppice of
trees to a place where the path
crosses a stream.
2 Between two coppices, the
path crosses a stream. At
the stream turn hard right and
walk straight up the hill towards
a gate in the wall above you.
Go through the gate turn right
along the wall. You have now
joined the old mine road that
was used for Honister slate mine,
and which hugs the contours
high up on the flank of the fell.
You’ll stay on this track now all
the way to Castle Crag.
3 The footbridge across
Tongue Gill is a big landmark
Start/end: Seatoller
National Trust car
park, CA12 5XN
on the way. If you need to,
there is an option just before
and just after the gill to take a
shortcut down to the hamlet of
Rosthwaite. However, if you’re
keen to carry on to Castle Crag,
simply continue along the track
until at the cusp of the brow you
get your first glimpse of the lake
of Derwentwater.
4 Just over the brow when
you get your first sight
of Derwentwater, take a little
‘sheep track’ path that forks off
to the right. It skirts round the
base of a crag then follows the
fence to a ladder stile. Climb the
stile and turn right to join the
main path up to the top
of Castle Crag.
5 Retrace your steps to
descend Castle Crag, but
don’t go back over the ladder
stile, instead follow the main
path down hill. Once into the
woods, take the right hand fork
over the footbridge. Where the
path reaches the river, follow the
Why visit The Lake District
path signposted ‘Rosthwaite
1¾ miles’. You’re now on the
return leg of the walk.
6 You’ll come across a fork
in the path heading up to
the right, signposted to Millican
Dalton’s Cave. You can add this
in and return to this point, or
you can continue straight on
following the signpost
to Rosthwaite.
7 When you get to the
packhorse bridge over the
river, ignore the stone bridge.
Continue straight ahead over
Rosthwaite is a huddle of white
houses round a small green hill
the wooden footbridge, and
keep on the path beside the
river, past the stepping stones
until you get to the YHA hostel
at Longthwaite.
8 From the hostel, follow
the path along the river
back towards Seatoller. There’s
an exciting scramble where a
chain’s been attached to the
PICS© SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
rock to give you a helping hand,
but if you take it steady it’s less
daunting than it looks. The path
leads you round the bottom of
Johnny Wood, along the wall
and back to the car park.
Castle Crag in all its beauty
www.dogfriendly.co.uk 37
Why visit The Lake District

Away rom the

‘MADDING CROWDS’
Looking for somewhere peaceful to walk? You’ll ind space on one of
the Lake District’s ine beaches, far away from the ‘madding crowds’

SEASCALE BEACH
POSTCODE CA20 1QS
OS GRID REF NY 0369 0090
The long, flat beach at Seascale has
plenty of space to let off steam and
makes a good starting point for
walks inland.
Visitors will find miles of shingle
along the shore, perfect for a spot of
beachcombing, with a vast expanse of
clean sand exposed when the tide is
out. Jutting out to sea is a wooden jetty,
restored to mark the 2000 millennium.
This is now popular with sea-anglers and
a range of water sports are enjoyed here.
There are views from the beach out
over the Irish Sea and on clear days
it might be possible to see the hills of
Galloway in the distance.
The village of Seascale was a popular
tourist destination in Victorian times. The
introduction of the Furness Railway line
in the 1850s brought city dwellers to the
area to swim in the sea.
But the area’s history goes far beyond
this. There is evidence of habitation by
Viking and Roman settlers. There are two
stone circles close to the beach, both on
private land.
Free parking is available at the
beachfront car park, and there is a
good children’s play area together with
benches and a picnic area nearby.

RAVENGLASS BEACH SILECROFT

POSTCODE CA18 1SN OS GRID REF SD 0837 9639 BEACH
The village of Ravenglass lies on the coastal estuary where the POSTCODE
Mite, Irt and Esk rivers converge before draining into the Irish Sea. LA18 4NY
Ravenglass’ beach is composed of a mixture of sand, mud OS GRID REF
and shingle, backed by a small grassy area at one end. Former SD 1209 8118
fishermen’s cottages run alongside the length of the beach. Set on the edge of
The fells of Eskdale and Wasdale are not far away – this beach the Lake District
is technically within the Lake District National Park, National Park, this
and Ravenglass has plenty of well-signposted walks both along gently shelving
the coast and into the hills. shingle beach
Close to the beach are the remains of Glannoventa, once an extends in both
important Roman Fort. The 12ft high walls of the former Bath directions as far
House are still fairly impressive. as the eye can
Muncaster Castle is also well worth a detour. It would be easy see. Low tide reveals a vast expanse of sand, suitable for kiting,
to spend an entire day exploring the castle and gardens with their horse-riding and other activities.
spectacular views. This castle has been home to the Pennington The beach is quite popular with locals and day-trippers, with
family since 1208. sea-anglers often seen at the shoreline.
Old and young alike will enjoy a trip on the La-al Rattie Steam Silecroft beach is dominated by majestic Black Combe Fell, with
Railway, one of the oldest and longest narrow gauge railways an elevation of 600 metres. The distinctive shape of Black Combe
in the country, is of interest to geologists, as it gives a classic example of the
which runs from landscape that was once the start of a glacier.
Ravenglass, On fine days it might be possible to see the Isle of Man from
inland for 7 the coast here. The west-facing beach gets some spectacular
miles through summer sunsets.
spectacular, Alongside the beach is an area which has been designated a
tranquil Site of Special Scientific Interest. Natterjack toads spawn in the
countryside, to area in springtime. Local and migratory birds, including swallows,
beautiful Eskdale. oystercatchers and gannets can be spotted in the skies.

38 DogFriendly
ST BEES BEACH
POSTCODE CA27 0ET OS GRID REF NX 9599 1169
Also known as Seacote Beach. Stretching out below the dramatic
headland of St Bees Head is a mile long sand and pebble beach.
Stretching from South Head to Seamill Lane, St Bees beach
consists of a shingle bank which slopes down to an expanse of
golden sand. The sand here is exposed at most states of tide
except for a couple of hours either side of high tide.
At the northern end of the beach is a promenade that extends
towards the red sandstone cliffs in the central section of the
beach. Beyond these the beach is backed by St Bees Golf Club.
There is an RSPB nature reserve on Saint Bees Head which is
home to a range of seabirds, including guillemots, kittiwakes,
fulmars and razorbills. You can also spot peregrines and ravens
above the red sandstone cliffs.
WHITEHAVEN BEACH
POSTCODE CA28 7HD
OS GRID REF NX 9725 1900
In Georgian times the
settlement of Whitehaven
was a bustling hub of mining
and shipping. Salt and coal
were exported from the
town’s harbour and rum and tobacco came into the country here.
These industries are now long gone, but there is much in the area
to remind visitors of the town’s past.
The small sand and pebble beach curves around the bay. The
area is quite popular with sea-anglers and fossils are sometimes
found among the shingle on the shore line. Just behind the beach
lies the town, with its shops, places to eat and parking.
At the southern end of the beach there is a breakwater and the
historic harbour of Whitehaven, which dates back to 1633. The
chimney of Wellington Pits towers majestically over the harbour.
There are also some interesting museums in the area, telling the
story of Whitehaven’s industrial past. The Beacon Museum is
dedicated to telling visitors about local history. The Rum Story,
while open to guide dogs only, is a visitor centre set in an original
18th century building and brings the history of rum vividly to life.
From the beach it is possible to take an exhilarating cliff-top
walk along the coast to St Bees Head and beyond to the RSPB
Reserve. Look out for terns, guillemots and even puffins along the
way. From the cliffs, on a clear day there are views over to the
hills of Dumfries and Galloway to the north and over to the
Isle of Man.
MILLOM BEACH
POSTCODE LA18 4FH OS GRID REF SD 1891 7897
On the edge of the beautiful Lake District, the small town of
Millom overlooks Duddon Sands, an area of sandy, grassy
saltmarshes. The beach here is a mix of shingle and sand
backed by grassy dunes. It is not as popular as nearby
Haverigg beach.
In 1855 iron ore was discovered here and for the next 100
years Millom became a relatively large industrial town. The
mines have long since closed. Today the area once operating
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as an iron ore mine and steelworks forms the Hodbarrow
RSPB nature reserve. A lagoon now fills the former pit.
To the south-west of Duddon Sands is one of the country’s
largest wind farms.
You can find more information at thebeachguide.co.uk.
www.dogfriendly.co.uk 39
 Why visit The Lake District

Dog riendly
DAYS OUT There are numerous places to have a dog friendly day
out in the Lake District. Here are just a few of them
CONISTON LAUNCH, CONISTON WATER
A fantastic way to break up walks around Coniston Water, or just a lovely
experience in itself, Coniston Launch welcomes dogs free of charge.
You can also take a launch to get from Coniston village to Brantwood
on the eastern shore.
There are two tours to choose from, the Swallows and Amazons cruise or
the Campbells on Coniston cruise. Stay on the boat for the full cruise or
stop off at any of the jetties to catch a later boat back.
conistonlaunch.co.uk

THE RAVENGLASS AND train for a small charge (currently

ESKDALE RAILWAY
This narrow gauge railway, known
as La’al Ratty, reaches seven miles
from Dalegarth in the Eskdale
valley to the coastal village of
Ravenglass, and was once used
to transport iron ore – as well as
members of the public.
Dogs are welcome aboard the
£1.50), and are permitted in the
ticket offices and on the lower
floor of the Fellbites Cafe at the
Dalegarth-for-Boot terminus
(but not the Turntable Cafe at
Ravenglass Station). Water is also
available at both stations, which
are situated at either end of the
railway. ravenglass-railway.co.uk

MUNCASTER CASTLE, RAVENGLASS

Whinlatter Forest
Muncaster Castle can be found in Ravenglass, in the south west corner
of the Lake District, and describes itself on its website as ‘Cumbria’s top
dog-friendly attraction’. Dogs on leads are welcome free throughout its
70+ acres of woodland gardens, and inside the smaller of the two cafes,
the Owl Garden Tea Room. There is also outdoor and some undercover
seating at the main cafe.
Dogs can’t enter the castle or the Hawk & Owl Centre (for obvious
reasons!), but there is a special viewing area that allows you to see
the afternoon ‘Sky Hunters’ bird of prey display, and dogs can also
accompany you to the Wild Heron Feed. muncaster.co.uk

GRIZEDALE AND WHINLATTER FORESTS

The Forestry Commission’s Grizedale Forest is a great place to walk with
your dog and has several waymarked trails for all tastes and abilities.
PICS @ SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

The forest is most famous for its outdoor sculptures, with around 40
artworks to be found along its network of pathways.
There are lots of walking route ideas on the Grizedale Forest website.
Further north near Keswick, Whinlatter Forest has views across
Bassenthwaite Lake, Derwentwater and Keswick, and also has a number
of waymarked walking trails. forestryengland.uk

40 DogFriendly
 Why visit Lake District

Where to eat After a long walk in the fells, you will ind there’s
nothing better than a pint and some grub

Ambleside provides
the magnificent setting
for Rattle Ghyll

PIC © SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
THE RATTLE GHYLL
ADDRESS 2 Bridge Street, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9DU
CONTACT via Facebook
Nestling in the centre of The Lake District National Park, Ambleside
is a destination for all sorts of folks. Along with a vibrant local
community, the village attracts outdoor enthusiasts from cyclists to
runners, photographers to walkers (and many more). The beauty
of the park draws people in from all over the world, who enjoy the
park in many different ways.
The Rattle Ghyll Cafe provides hearty, home cooked goodness.
Whether it’s for one of their local regulars, out for lunch, runners
just back from the famous Fairfield
Horseshoe or cyclists out to bag some
of the notorious Lakeland passes. They
provide that honest food that folk crave, no
matter what they’ve been up to.
SPECIALTY Strictly vegetarian. Try their
Rattle Ghyll burrito, loaded with salsa,
smoky black beans, cheddar, creme fraiche,
and jalapeños, and served with salad.
OPEN 10:00–16:00 daily
rattleghyll.com

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 41
Why visit The Lake District
THE FLYING PIG PUB
ADDRESS Rayrigg Road, Bowness,
Cumbria, LA23 3BZ
CONTACT 01539 443332
The Flying Pig is a traditional family friendly
Lakeland pub, that offers fantastic seasonal
food, made using locally sourced ingredients.
The contemporary interiors have been
designed to create a relaxing and cosy
atmosphere. No matter if you want to enjoy
a pint of ale by the real fire or sit down for
a delicious pub meal, you’re guaranteed to
feel comfortable during your visit.
They also welcome dogs into their bar area
and have dedicated taps and bowls.
SPECIALTY Beer-battered white fish,
hand cut chips, mushy marrowfat peas,
and tartare sauce.
OPEN 10:00–21:00, seven days
theflyingpigbowness.co.uk
THE WATERMILL INN
ADDRESS Ings, nr Staveley,
Cumbria LA8 9PY
CONTACT 01539 821309
Having an award winning brewery on the
premises is one bonus with the Water Mill.
Positioned along a peaceful side road just
off the A591, it is ideally located for touring
the Lake District. The inn is surrounded by
pleasant walks, cycle ways and, of course, the
beautiful Lakeland fells. After a day out in the
fabulous Lakes relax in one of their cosy, oak
beamed bars, both of which have log fires.
SPECIALTY Full Cumbrian breakfast,
comprising sausage, back bacon, a fried
egg, grilled tomato, hash brown, sautéed
mushrooms, black pudding, baked beans
and brown or white toast.
OPEN 12:00–21:00
lakelandpub.co.uk
42 DogFriendly
THE CUCKOO BROW INN
ADDRESS Far Sawrey, Ambleside,
Cumbria LA22 0LQ
CONTACT 01539 443425
Situated in the heart of the quiet village of
Far Sawrey, just a three-quarter mile stroll to
the National Trust home of Beatrix Potter,
this Lake District inn welcomes you to come
and sit by the fire. It is a classic Lake District
B&B, which has recently been renovated
and restored to its former glory.
They strive to produce local food, sourcing
much of the produce from the area. They
also offer dog friendly accommodation.
SPECIALTY Lakeland rump of lamb served
with minted mash potato, port wine sauce,
buttered hispi cabbage, baby spinach
and mangetout.
OPEN 12:00–21:00, daily
cuckoobrow.co.uk
THE KINGS ARMS HOTEL
ADDRESS Hawkshead, Ambleside,
Cumbria LA22 ONZ
CONTACT 01539 436372
Oak beams, an open fire and friendly faces
greet visitors as they walk through the door
of this 500-year-old inn. The peaceful square
outside is access only for cars, but parking
is easy with our hotel permit in the pay
and display car park nearby.
The hotel has a range of dog friendly
cottages and your dog is welcome to dine
with you in the Waterside House.
SPECIALTY Kings burger, comprising 6oz
prime beef burger, smoked Applewood
cheese, bacon, gem lettuce, Hawkshead
relish, black garlic ketchup, in a floured bap
with onion rings, skinny fries
OPEN 12:00–14:30; 18:00–21:30
kingsarmshawkshead.co.uk
THE WATEREDGE INN
ADDRESS Borrans Road, Ambleside,
Cumbria, LA22 0EP
CONTACT 015394 32332
No other inn can boast its lakeside setting,
looking out over the largest natural lake in
England. The Wateredge Inn offers a great
central location, which means access to
and around The Lakes is easy.
Wateredge is a short stroll from Waterhead
Pier, from where you can take a cruise.
Most of their food is locally sourced. They
serve delicious Cumberland sausage with
creamy mashed potato and onion gravy, or
try their beer-battered fish or a Sunday roast.
SPECIALTY Cumbrian beef chilli, topped with
Grandma Singletons cheese, fragrant rice,
tortilla chips, sour cream, and lime.
OPEN Food served from 10:00 daily
wateredgeinn.co.uk
THE BRIDGE HOTEL
ADDRESS Buttermere,
Near Cockermouth CA13 9UZ
CONTACT 01768 770252
The trees at the southern tip of Buttermere,
known as The Sentinels, are said to be
the most photographed in the country.
Crummock Water is fed by Scale Force, the
highest falls in the Lake District, and has
a pretty pebbly beach at its northern tip.
There are some easy walks around
Buttermere, or around Cinderdale Common.
At the back of the hotel they cater for
hungry walkers in a pet-friendly environment.
SPECIALTY Roast local lamb, served with
traditional trimmings, roasted potatoes,
Yorkshire pudding and fresh vegetables.
OPEN 08:00–23:00, Mon–Sat;
08:00–22:30, Sun
bridge-hotel.com
Property Round-up

PIC© SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
The top 10 hotels
as voted for in our DogFriendly Awards competition
If you are now considering somewhere to stay in 2020 where better to look than
the hotels and B&Bs that were voted for in our DogFriendly Awards competition in
2019. Here is a run down of those that received the most votes

BROADOAK COUNTRY HOUSE

1 HOTEL, LAKE DISTRICT
ADDRESS Bridge Lane, Troutbeck,
Windermere, Cumbria LA23 1LA
CONTACT 01539 445566
Broadoaks Country House Hotel is a dog
friendly boutique hotel nestled in seven
acres of beautifully landscaped grounds
with views across to Windermere and The
Langdale Pikes. If you have a dog and you
are looking to bring them away with you to
the Lake District, then you have found a little
piece of doggy heaven. The owners have
put extra special care and attention into
what they believe to be the best dog-friendly
accommodation in The Lake District.
• “Broadoaks is a stunning hotel in a food, impressive rooms, great hotel and
beautiful location – perfect for dog walking. surroundings. For my four-legged boy, he
The dog friendly rooms on offer are so couldn’t have been treated any better.
luxurious, it makes a nice change to be able Made to feel at home – he only had a bit
to stay somewhere as fantastic as this and of grump on the way home!”
allow our dogs to enjoy it too. They offer • “The space in The Retreat was just fabulous
a very special menu for our dogs, detail is and gave us lots of privacy. Our dog, Better,
second to none. Very deserving winners.” enjoyed the stay and she was super excited
• “As a two-legged creature, I was to try out the Doggy Dinner Bed.”
treated very well – friendly staff, superb broadoakscountryhouse.co.uk

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 43
The Talland Bay Hotel
offers direct access to
a dog friendly beach

2 THE TALLAND BAY HOTEL, CORNWALL with us. We will keep coming
ADDRESS Porthallow, Looe, Cornwall, PL13 2JB back here year after year.”
CONTACT 01503 272667 • “Probably one of the most
Proud to be one of the most dog friendly hotels in Cornwall, the dog friendly luxury hotels in the
Talland Bay Hotel in south Cornwall welcomes pups wishing to dine whole of the UK. Dogs receive
with their owners in the conservatory restaurant with freshly cooked a welcome hamper, freshly poached chicken at dinner and butcher’s
chicken and local butcher’s sausages. The hotel offers direct access to sausages at breakfast.”
the South West Coastal path and adog friendly beach. • “One of the best dog friendly hotels we have ever visited – welcome
• “We love it here, our Springer Spaniel is always spoilt at breakfast pack for the dog, the staff are always pleased to meet the dogs, they
and dinner. Staff are lovely and accommodation has always been of even remember our dog from his last stay. Somewhere where we can
a high standard. The food is amazing. We love it that our dog can eat relax, knowing the dog is not a nuisance.” tallandbayhotel.co.uk

THE BEACH HUT,

4 HOLYHEAD
ADDRESS 4 Hibernia Terrace,
Holyhead, North Wales,
Anglesey, LL65 1DL
CONTACT 01407 459381
This Holyhead guest house,
cafe and bistro offers four
cosy rooms and a dog friendly
cafe and bistro. All rooms are
INN ON THE COAST, ensuite with TV and free wifi
3 NORTHERN IRELAND and can accommodate well-
ADDRESS 50 Ballyreagh Road, behaved dogs. The Beach Hut
PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland, BT56 8LT Holyhead is located 5 minutes from
CONTACT 028 7082 3509 the ferry port, train station and town
The Inn on the Coast Hotel has centre, making it an ideal base for
been pet friendly since opening onward travel or for a longer stay in
its doors in 2012. Holyhead itself. The tastefully themed
The Inn has 10 elected pet friendly rooms. All pet friendly rooms cafe features popular Welsh and
are on the ground floor of the hotel for easy access. We have a other regional dishes and provides an
designated section in our pub bistro where you and your pooch can ideal place to eat or drink and their
enjoy dinner together. There are also special dining arrangements breakfasts are legendary!
if you wish to bring your dog to breakfast. In addition, they have • “They are simply the best. I take my granddaughter for lunch
alfresco seating arrangements in their beer garden. and she just loves seeing all the dogs. All the staff are fabulous
• “The staff make you and your dogs feel so welcome. They get the and friendly the Beach Hut so deserves this award.”
dogs a cool drink and treats on arrival. They also have a dog menu • “My favourite dog friendly guest house. I’m always made
of dinners and frozzys. Highly recommend.” welcome when I stay there.”
• “Because we recently stayed here for two nights with our three • “Lots of happy doggos roaming free in this beautiful little cafe/B&B.”
dogs and were made to feel so welcome.” thebeachhutholyhead.co.uk
innonthecoastportrush.com

44 DogFriendly
 Property Round-up

THE BORROWDALE HOTEL, LAKE DISTRICT
5 ADDRESS Borrowdale Vale, Keswick, Cumbria,
Lake District, CA12 5UY CONTACT 0800 840 1244
Nestling at the foot of Shepherds Crag in the pretty Borrowdale valley
at the tip of Derwentwater, the Borrowdale Hotel opened its doors in
1866 – just a year after the railway reached Keswick – and Victorian
visitors began exploring the Borrowdale Valley. The hotel is happy
to welcome well behaved dogs in a number of rooms – a custom
dating back to when the hotel opened in 1866.
• “We love spending time at the Borrowdale, it’s so friendly. The staff
are great with my old boy, and there’s a lovely walk just across the
road. We are already planning our next trip.”
• “Best dog friendly hotel in the Lakes, always has been a favourite.
Dog towels for all to use, treats at reception, complimentary bowls
and beds in rooms for dogs, endless dog walks on the doorstep.”
• “I have stayed in many hotels where it is said that dogs are
welcome. I’ve stayed at the Borrowdale many times over many years
and the fact is that dogs, and their owners, are warmly welcomed.
lakedistricthotels.net/borrowdalehotel
THE OLD VICARAGE, LAKE DISTRICT
6 ADDRESS Vicarage Road, Ambleside, Cumbria,
Lake District, LA22 9DH CONTACT 01539 433364
The Old Vicarage welcomes dogs (and their owners) to their B&B
in the Lake District. Dogs can even stay free, which is a rare thing
in the Ambleside area. Many customers return year after year,
particularly with their dogs, as they know their pets are going to
be made just as welcome as they are! As well as the local fells,
there are plenty of great circular dog walking routes that they
can recommend to you – just ask!
• “Every time we stay here our dogs are welcomed and treated like
stars. We stay in the garden room which is just perfect for our three
furry babies. Perfectly situated for great walks in a dog friendly town.”
• “Our dogs know where they are and get excited when they see
the owners.”
• “The perfect location for walking your dogs, amazing hotel that
appreciates your dog is a big part of your family, and treats them
with the same respect as they do the human.”
oldvicarageambleside.co.uk

Hogarths is a place
to escape to

HOGARTHS HOTEL, SOLI-
7 HULL
ADDRESS Four Ashes Road, Dorridge,
Solihull, West Midlands, B93 8QE
CONTACT 01564 779988
Pack your bags and escape to a place
where relaxation is high on the agenda.
Explore the beautiful grounds of Hogarths
luxury hotel, Solihull – and beyond!
• “The staff are fantastic and all love dogs!”
• “Hogarths is such a dog friendly hotel.
My dogs are treated like royalty, with every
member of staff making a fuss of them,
you don’t have to ask for anything as
it’s automatically offered.“
• “Hogarths go above and beyond to
cater for their four legged guests – from
providing doggy treats and bowls in the
rooms, to offering private access from
the room to their gardens for the furry
friends to run to their hearts content.”
hogarths.co.uk/solihull 
www.dogfriendly.co.uk 45
 Property Round-up
EVERSLEY HOTEL, ISLE OF WIGHT
8 ADDRESS Park Avenue, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 1LB
CONTACT 01983 852244
The Eversley Hotel has several rooms where dogs are welcome.
They also have a space where dogs and their owners can enjoy
breakfast together. All they ask is that you contact them to let the
know that you want to bring your dog and they will make sure you
are in a suitable room. Dogs are allowed on many of the beaches
on the island all year round. The hotel has a guide that shows you
exactly when restrictions are in place.
• “My family has been staying at this fantastic, family hotel for
the last ten years. It’s perfectly situated for lovely dog walks in the
gardens, cliffs and beaches. The breakfasts are superb, the rooms are
immaculate, and the staff cannot do enough to make each guest
BOAT COUNTRY INN
9 AND RESTAURANT,
SCOTLAND
ADDRESS Deshar Road,
Boat of Garten,
Invernessshire, PH24 3BH
CONTACT 01479 831258
The Boat Country Inn in Boat
of Garten is a country bar and restaurant with hotel rooms
oozing rural charm and rustic character.
Their picturesque surroundings in the heart of the Scottish
Cairngorms provide the perfect backdrop for savouring the hearty,
seasonal pub-food on the menu, and the carefully nurtured beers,
lagers and fine wines gracing their bar. Their deluxe garden rooms
lead out to your own terraced balcony and lawn.
• “We keep going back to the Boat time and time again because
of just how great they are with our Labrador, Bruce. The staff are
incredibly friendly and always have a biscuit and a bowl of water
for him when we have dinner in the restaurant. Being able to have
him with us is what makes us choose the Boat.”
• “The Boat staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming to our
Labrador. They are the reason we keep coming back.”
• “The Boat Hotel offers pet friendly rooms with a fantastic
pet policy. We received a water bowl, poo bags, pet treats,
a towel and a selection of walking maps within the local area
suitable for dog walking.”
boathotel.co.uk
46 DogFriendly
Ventnor on the
Isle of Wight
PIC© SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
welcome. Furry family
members are welcomed,
literally, with open arms.”
• “We have enjoyed many
happy holidays with our
three small dogs at the Eversley Hotel. They always receive a warm
welcome and I believe they enjoy their holiday as much as we do.”
• “I worked there this year. Owners have given dogs their own
welcome packs that come in. These contain delicious treats.
Also owners can request an extra sausage, eggs etc for their dogs.
Eversley is also located next to a dog friendly park and cliff tops.
So people can walk their dogs at their leisure. The staff also go out
of their way to make the dogs feel welcome.”
eversleyhotel.uk.com
10 THE RAILWAY INN,
LAKE DISTRICT
ADDRESS The Railway Inn,
6 London Road,
Ulverston, Cumbria
CONTACT 01229 462889
The Railway Inn is in a village
location which has a self
contained accommodation
with a small outside patio. Three minutes walk from public
transport which can take you to Dock Museum in Barrow, the
festival town of Ulverston, Bowness, Lake Windermere, Kendal,
Keswick and it is just 5 minutes drive from the Lakes Safari Zoo.
Accommodation is a one bedroom self contained apartment
which sleeps four people with a sofa bed in lounge area and
a cosy bed for your dog. The apartment has stunning views
across the countryside and is ideal located for public transport
to the beautiful town of Ulverston and to other attractions of
the Lake District. Beautiful countryside for dog walking and
a short drive to the beach.
• “Stunning location. Very welcoming owners who welcome pets
with open arms, lots of water bowls and a rest area. Locals also
welcome pets which was very pleasing.”
• “Friendly welcome for dogs and their owners. Great beer,
food and comfort.”
• “Welcomes dogs so life is made easier for dog lovers.”
therailwaylindal.pub
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Tried & tested The Lake District

Lane Foot Farm,

Thornthwaite Alison Beever and her partner Julie take their dog,
Mac, on a motorhome holiday to the Lake District
for a taste of ‘life on the open road’
PIC© SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

48 DogFriendly
I
n July last year myself, my partner
and our English Springer Spaniel
Mac set off on our irst ever
‘motorhome adventure’.
We had always fancied the idea of
‘life on the open road’ and really like the
thought of owning our own motorhome so
we can take Mac with us on all our breaks.
So, in anticipation of my partner Julie’s
retirement in June 2020, we decided to take
the plunge and hire a luxury motorhome
for a long weekend. The ‘try before you
buy’ element of this break really
appealed to us.
We collected our rented Escape 664
automatic motorhome from Swift Go’s
Hire depot in Stockport and were shown
around our luxury home for the weekend
by Sam who was so helpful and answered
all my questions with lots of patience,
which was no mean feat with
our excited Springer also wanting to
explore his new home.
There was a lot to take in, but
fortunately Swift Go provided us
with a handy booklet that was full of
useful information.
We were amazed by how much was
packed into the small space. There was a
large fridge, a cooker and hob, microwave,
toaster, shower room with chemical toilet,
TV and DVD player, ixed bed, bedding
and towels, lots of storage space and a
really delightful welcome hamper with tea,
coffee, cereals, bread, eggs, milk, butter,
crisps and chocolate.
What a perfect start to our weekend.

Views to Keswick, Skiddaw
and Bassenthwaite Lake
as seen from Catbells
www.dogfriendly.co.uk 49

Tried & tested The Lake District
So, with Mac safely clipped into the rear
passenger seat, we were ready for the off.
The motorhome was amazingly easy to
drive. You just need to keep in mind the
length and width when negotiating winding
country lanes.
After a few hours driving, we pitched
up at our campsite, Lane Foot Farm in
Thornthwaite, located in the Lake District
between Keswick and Bassenthwaite Lake.
After checking in, we found it really easy to
ill up the tank with fresh water and then plug
into the electric hook up.
The campsite is in a beautiful location and
we had a decent sized pitch. Although it was
A view over Braithwaite
The glassy waters of
Derwentwater at Keswick
PIC© SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
50 DogFriendly
Out for a ramble…
fully booked and We had mixed weather
there were quite a few over the weekend, but it
families in the next didn’t dampen our spirits
ield along, our pitch and we still ventured out on
was very quiet and some lovely walks.
the whole place had a Around early evening
really laid-back feel. on the Friday we ambled
The shop on the along the country lane
site also doubled up towards the nearby village
as the reception which of Braithwaite with Mac
was located just across mainly off the lead as it
from the pot washing and shower area. All was very quiet with the odd car driving by.
of it was lovely and clean and there was a Just before reaching the village centre we
convenient bench located next to a stash of saw a sign for food at The Middle Ruddings
books and reading material that you could pub pointing down some nearby steps.
buy by making a small donation to a local Deciding to investigate, Mac led the way to
charity. a lovely country pub with a nice outside area
The showers were okay. Julie said hers was overlooking the fantastic Skiddaw mountain
lovely with constant hot water, but the one in the distance. As the rain had stayed off, we
I chose had one of those buttons you have sat outside (as is our usual choice) although
to continuously press (like at the swimming I did notice that the bar area was very dog
baths) so choose carefully before you commit friendly. I am pleased to say the food (steak
to your shower! pie) was delicious and hot, which is always a
bonus when it’s being served in the outdoors.
On the Saturday we walked into the nearby
village of Braithwaite but made the decision
to take a slight detour off the country lane
when we saw a public footpath sign and Mac
was desperate to run around in the adjacent
forest. He had a wonderful time and totally
wore himself out having adventures, seeking
out new smells so much so we had to put him
on the lead for a while to ‘calm down’.
We walked along the lower footpath, past
the adventure centre, which led out onto a
main road and we turned left and walked
down into the village.
There we found the fabulous village shop
selling everything you could possibly need
for a weekend away together with mementoes
(about the local area) of your visit. The choice
was amazing with lots of homemade food
and local produce ranging from ice cream and
croissants to bacon or sausage butties.
I particularly enjoyed the fresh, hot pasties.
After a wander around the village the


www.dogfriendly.co.uk 51
 Tried & tested The Lake District
Pink morning skies over
Skiddaw and Blencathra
PIC© SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
weather turned a little bit wet so we decided
to have a respite drinks break at the nearby
Coledale Inn.
Don’t be put off by the bright yellow
colour of the windows. It is lovely inside the
bar area (where dogs are allowed) but we
sought refuge underneath the pergola in the
beer garden and had a beverage or two.
We returned to the campsite via the quiet
country lane and had our evening meal inside
the cosiness of the motorhome (cooked
ourselves but courtesy of M&S) listening to
the rain drumming down on the roof, glad
to be tucked up indoors.
On Sunday we did an easy 3.5-mile walk
around the Newlands Beck area and we were
very lucky with the weather as the sun came
out and shone for quite a while. This was a
lovely walk through Braithwaite village and
passes the foot of Barrow with views towards
Bassenthwaite Lake and then running
alongside Swinside forest area. Mac had a
lovely old time seeking out new and different
smells in the bracken and was so happy to be
off the lead for the best part of the walk with
lots of cooling down time and drinks in the
52 DogFriendly
Views of Newlands Beck, High
Spy, Narrow Moor and Maiden
Moor in the Derwent Fells from
the summit of Dale Head
Mac chills
Beck towards the end.
Upon our return to the campsite we even
had time to sit outside the motorhome soaking
up the sunshine reading a book and Mac was
not at all perturbed by the visit of the resident
sheep who wandered around the pitches
saying hello to the campers.
For our evening meal we felt compelled to
return to The Coledale Inn (after seeing the
menu the previous day) and I have to say it
was a wise choice as the food was gorgeous.
Mac particularly liked the beer garden here
PIC© SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
and desperately wanted to run around with
the children playing a ball game on the grass.
Although we enjoy sitting outside I did notice
several faithful friends lying at their master’s
feet in the bar area so clearly it is very
dog friendly.
 PIC© SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
Bassenthwaite lake
in the Lake District

The motorhome was

really quite spacious FACT FILE

Everything,
including the
kitchen sink!

On the Monday morning it was relatively

Lane Foot Farm
easy to ‘pack up’, simply unplugging the ADDRESS Thornthwaite CA12 5RZ
electric hook up and pressing the buttons to CONTACT 01768 778097
empty the waste/fresh water over the grid near PRICE From £85.50 for a hard standing
pitch for three nights in June 2020.
to reception. The chemical toilet was a little See the website for more detail.
bit more challenging as we had obviously WEBSITE stayinthornthwaite.co.uk
used a lot of water to lush and it was totally
full and heavy to lift over the ‘Elsan’ point! Swift Go Motorhome Hire
ADDRESS Pear Mill, Stockport Road
West, Bredbury, Stockport SK6 2BP
THE RETURN LEG CONTACT 0333 247 2222
Our return journey on Monday was via PRICE £300 to rent an
Keswick where we enjoyed a hearty Escape 664 for three
nights. Comfortably
and delicious breakfast. sleeps up to four
The drive back was a bit testing as there people with one
was a large tailback on the M6 and our Sat fixed double bed,
living area and
Nav diverted us onto nearby single track
a lounge, which
roads. However, as I was driving I took the converts into another
plunge and prayed we wouldn’t meet any double bed. Ideal for
vehicles coming in the opposite direction. small families or couples
that need that extra space.
Luck was obviously on our side. We made it As Alison and Julie went in high season
to the other end unscathed and it deinitely the cost was £570 for three nights hire
wouldn’t deter me from driving one again. of the motorhome.
We had a fabulous weekend in the Lake Should you eventually decide to
buy, the Escape 664 costs from
District. Our introduction to ‘motorhoming’ £49,645–£52,030, depending on
was enjoyed by all of us and Mac can’t wait the spec selected.
to go on our next adventure.

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 53
 Great dog friendly
visits of 2019
You may have read these full reviews in 2019, but it’s worth reminding ourselves
of the great places we discovered last year. Will you explore them in 2020?

The Greyhound Inn, B&B

Oxfordshire
October Willis and Ted found the food and
accommodation to their liking in the village
of Letcombe Regis
The place: The Greyhound Inn is a handsome 18th
century free house offering drinking and dining
downstairs and spacious bedrooms over the upper loors.
Set in the heart of the village of Letcombe Regis, this
red-brick building was bought by
Martyn Reed and Catriona
Gallbraith in 2015.
Visits: Valley of the White
Horse near Ufington and
Ashdown House Estate.
thegreyhoundletcombe.co.uk

54 DogFriendly
 Reviews

HOTEL SELF-CATERING

The Lodge at Solent, The Ravendere Retreats,

Hampshire Devon
Hilary Keen and her American cocker spaniel Tess tuck in Rhian White introduces us to staying in a dog
for a night at this very dog friendly south coast lodge friendly luxury treehouse

The place: The Lodge at Solent is a couple of sound-proofed minutes
from the M27 and is a recommended dog-friendly base for those
exploring and visiting the south’s universities. In less than an hour
you can be in the heart of the New Forest too.
Visits: New Forest, Holly Hill Woodland Park, Porchester Castle,
Forest of Bere, Titchield Canal.
lodgeatsolent.co.uk
The place: Nestled within the canopy of four mature beech trees,
you can enjoy valley views and complete seclusion in the bespoke
handcrafted Treehouse.
All of the stunning furnishings and decor have been supplied
by Wayfair and the interior designed by their team of stylists.
Visits: Woolacombe, Croyde and Saulton Sands.
ravendere.co.uk

GLAMPING SELF-CATERING

2Posh2Pitch, Fast Cottage,

Norfolk Berwickshire
Glamping first timer Emma Bearman and her dog, Abundant history and unique geological interest
Alfie, enjoy a weekend under canvas in Norfolk attract Tracey Radnall to the Berwickshire coast

The place: Towards the end of last summer, we packed up our bags
and headed to Norfolk for a little weekend away, our irst glamping
experience to be precise. We arranged our stay through 2Posh2Pitch,
a small family run business on the North Norfolk coast. Kate and her
family offer unique glamping experiences in their beautiful bell tents.
Visits: Brancaster, Wells-Next-The-Sea and Holkham beaches.
2posh2pitch.co.uk
The place: Fast Cottage, which takes its name from the nearby
Fast Castle, is one of six farm cottages at Dowlaw Farm. It is ideally
located on the east coast footpath in Scotland with stunning
walking in all directions from the front door.
Visits: Fast Castle, east coast path, Admiralty distance poles,
Pettico Wick and St Abbs Head.
fastcastlecottage.co.uk

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 55
 CAMPER VAN

Highland Auto Campers,

Scotland
Rhian White takes the high road to Scotland in a camper van
tailored to her and her dogs
The place: A trip around some of the highlands’ most scenic and
interesting places. After driving 600 miles to get there, Rhian decides
to forgo the east and north and head west from Inverness to see the
coast, which she had was most beautiful part of the area.
Visits: Ullapool, Red Point beach, Beinn Eighe nature reserve,
Torridon and the road from Torridon to Lower Diabaig, Rogie Falls,
Rosemarkie beach and Chanonry point.
highlandautocampers.co.uk

HOTEL SELF-CATERING

Peventon Park Hotel, The Old Bakehouse,

Cornwall
Charlotte Clark takes her dogs down Cornwall way for a run on
the beach and a stay at the luxurious Penventon Park Hotel
The place: Charlotte is invited for a three-night stay at the luxurious
Penventon Park Hotel, located in Redruth, Cornwall.
While there she endeavours to pick off as many of Cornwall’s beaches
as she can, in between enjoying her garden suite at the hotel and taking
on board some of the fabulous food that the Penventon Park Hotel
has become famous for.
Visits: Porthtowan, Pollyjoke, St Ives and Perranporth beaches.
penventon.co.uk
Coniston
Emma Bearman and her partner James enjoy a week in the
Lake District with their Springer Spaniels Alie and Bonnie
The place: They choose the Old Bakehouse from a selection of 10 great
value dog friendly cottages run by Coniston Cottages, which sleeps 2–4.
From cosy hideaways to larger houses to suit multiple humans, all are set
right in the heart of England’s beautiful Lake District.
Visits: Positive Dog Training, the Old Man of Coniston, Tarn Hows
and the Tom Gill Waterfalls, and the ultra dog friendly Herdwicks Cafe
and Bistro.
conistoncottages.co.uk

56 DogFriendly
 Reviews

HOTEL HOTEL

Doxford Hall, Sands Hotel,

Northumberland
Doxford Hall proves to be the perfect quiet, luxury hotel for
an extra special birthday celebration for Angie Aspinall
The place: Doxford Hall, with its wealth of beautiful wood panelling,
old stone ireplaces, sparkling chandeliers, and a breathtakingly beautiful
hand-carved staircase, is the place the celebrate a ‘big’ birthday.
Enjoy a stay in a ground loor room with a four-poster bed!
Visits: Bamburgh beach; Barter Books, Alnwick; Bertram’s Cafe,
Warkworth; The Saltwater Cafe, Beadnell; The Ship Inn, Low Newton
-by-the-Sea.
doxfordhall.com
Isle of Wight
Rosie Pearson and her two Shelties, Abi and Emma, take in
much of what the dog friendly Isle of Wight has to ofer
The place: Rosie Pearson books a half board room at the Sands Hotel,
which sits on the Sandown Esplanade just across from an extensive
beach. Dogs can remain in bedrooms while you dine they are
welcome to join you in the lounge bar.
Visits: Alum Bay, Arreton Barns, Brading Down, Carisbrooke Castle:
Godshill Model Village, Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, Ventnor
Botanic Garden.
sands-hotel.co.uk

Hazel leads the Swaine

family on their way,
high up in the Ecrins
CAMPING
National Park

The Alpes
d’Huez, France
The Swaine family tackle mountain
walks and wild swim from the Alps to the Jura region
of France, with their dog, Hazel, leading the way

The place: The Swaine family enjoyed a two-centre stay in France.

First, they stayed at the Huttopia Valloise, which is nestled in the Ecrins
National Park in the Haute Alps, before moving on to a iverside canvas
retreat in the Jura region of France, Huttopia La Plage Blanche.
Visits: From 2000m up in the Haute Alpes to a riverside location on
the river Loue, from where they rented canoes to continue their travels
downriver.
huttopia.com

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 57
Reviews

SELF-CATERING CARAVAN

Roslyn, Trevella Camping and

Scottish Highlands
Richard and Angie Aspinall explore the Sutherland and Caithness
coastline with their Westies, Tilly and Henry
The place: Roslyn is a former family home situated above the narrow
tidal valley of the river Naver, and one of the wildest places in Europe.
It is located in the crofting community of Bettyhill.
This house is well equipped and offers stunning views to the river
and beyond there to the sands of Torrisdale Bay in the distance.
Visits: The North Coast 500, Farr Bay beach, Sango Bay, Smoo Cave,
Dunnet Bay and beach.
scottish-cottages.co.uk
Caravan Park, Cornwall
James Waters and family head to the North Cornish coast
to give Stanley his irst taste of Cornwall
The place: A generally quiet camping and caravan park with plenty
of space between the static caravans.
The accommodation is spacious and clean, and it has a gated decking
area, perfect for your dog to hang out. A doggy bed and throws await
your arrival.
Visits: Crantock beach, Bowgie Inn, Old Albion Inn, St Michael’s
Mount, Pixie Bar.
trevella.co.uk

SELF-CATERING

Developing Dogs,
Cambridgeshire
Jef and Jane Porter head for a long weekend near Ely, with
their dogs, Roma and Dotty. Includes a spot of dog training
The place: Dragonly offers a spacious home from home for a couple,
while the other accommodation on site offer two bedrooms and one
with disabled access.
All three properties have their own private access to a 3-acre ield
at the rear of the properties, where you can exercise your dog(s).
Visits: Holkham beach, Ely Cathedral. You can pay extra for the
training if you want, with their specialty being reactive dogs.
developingdogs.co.uk

58 DogFriendly

HOTEL
Charingworth Manor,
Cotswolds
We join Evika Kienne and her dogs on a visit to the Cotswolds
to stay at the luxurious Charingworth Manor
The place: The luxurious hotel offers spacious rooms, distinctive
with comfy bed and lots of amenities like a kettle, ample drawer
and closet space, a safe, bottled water and robes and slippers for
that extra bit of comfort.
You will be treated like royalty from start to inish.
Visits: 100-mile Cotswold Way Walk, Chipping Campden, Bibury,
Burton on the Water, Lower Slaughter.
classiclodges.co.uk/charingworth-manor
SELF-CATERING
Puddle Duck, Shropshire
Emma Bearman and her Springer Spaniels spend a couple of
nights away in the heart of the Ironbridge Gorge, Shropshire
The place: Puddle Duck Cottages are two luxury self-catering
holiday cottages set right next to the river Severn at Jackield.
Duckling Cottage, the smaller of the two cottages, sleeps ive
across two bedrooms, and the garden is ideal for alfresco dining.
Visits: The cottages offer easy access to 10 award-winning museum
sites, including the popular Blists Hill Victorian Town, Enginuity,
Jackield Tile Museum, Tar Tunnel and Coalport Tile Museum.
puddleduckcottages.co.uk
SELF-CATERING
Laurel Cottage,
Cheshire
DogFriendly’s Steve and Lin take their dogs and son
to Cheshire for a well-deserved summer break
The place: Laurel Cottage is a two-bedroom cottage, set around
a courtyward behind a farmhouse.
Next door to the cottage you can also gain access to the swimming
pool and jacuzzi, which can be pre-booked in advance.
Visits: Southport, the Wizard Tea Room, Alderley Edge; The White
Hart, Leek; Formby beach; Leek & Rudyard Railway; Freshield
Squirrel Reserve.
sykescottages.co.uk
www.dogfriendly.co.uk 59
DogFriendly's
PHOTO
The BBC’s Katie Thistleton
was this year’s judge

competition 2019
DogFriendly’s Photo Competition
2019 closed on 30th November
2019. More than 4000 photos
were entered. Our biggest year
ever – again! The overall winner
was a stunning photo of Frasier
(opposite) taken in light by Sarah
Hannant. This was picked from all
the entries, irrespective of votes,
by this year’s judge, the BBC’s
Katie Thistleton.
Winners of the categories were
based on the public votes, with
over 27,000 of you voting.
As usual, the character of the
dogs showed through to make
the winning entries.

THE PRIZES This year’s judge is

1ST OVERALL PRIZE
Forest Holidays break worth
up to £1000 and your dog on
the cover of DogFriendly
magazine, as can be seen
on the cover of this edition.
WINNER: ON MY HOLIDAYS
1 year’s supply of pet food
WINNER: WHAT A POSER
A specially commissioned
dog portrait
WINNER: PLAYTIME
A Woof and Brew hamper
WINNER: ME AND MY DOG
A weekend break at one of
Epicurean Club’s dog friendly inns
Runners up in each category
win Woof and Brew treats.
3rd place win a DogFriendly
magazine subscription
Katie Thistleton
Who also presented our
DogFriendly Awards ceremony
at the Doubletree at the Tower of
London Hilton. Katie is an English
television and radio presenter,
NCTJ qualiied journalist and
author, best known for her work
across the CBBC channel. She
presents a show on BBC Radio
1 with her co-presenter Cel
Spellman. She is a huge dog fan
and we are delighted that she was
able to choose the overall winner
for this year’s competition. She
picked Frasier (opposite) as the
overall winner and had this to say:
“It’s such a gorgeous shot and I
love how he is jumping for joy! His
friendly happy personality really
comes across!”

60 Dog Friendly
 Competition

Overall winner Frasier

“Here Frasier is doing his best flying dog
impression for me. Loving life bounding through
the gorgeous autumn leaves.” Sarah Hannant

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 61
 1. ME AND MY DOG

RUNNER UP ANGEL
Molly and Angel – a picture paints a
thousand words. Janette Egginton
➥

Winner Abbi
Me and my girl sharing a pear,
3RD PLACE RUFUS
Rufus likes a spa day too.
because we share everything. Marie Austin
Joanna Smith

2. ON MY HOLIDAYS
RUNNER UP
EDDIE
Bonjour! I’m
Eddie, a two-year-
old Sealyham
Terrier who
loves to travel,
especially to the
south of France!
Here I am on the
beach in France,
enjoying the sun,
sea and sand!
Cheryl Harrison
➥

Winner Eddie Lightning

Having fun playing with my ball in between splashing in my paddling
pool on a sunny day on holiday in the Lake District. Debbie Webb
3RD PLACE BEAR, ROSE, ANGEL, ARRA, BRIAR & TORIN
This is a photo of ‘Our Gang’ at a loch in Scotland on our holiday. They
love swimming. This was a special holiday as Torin on the far right of the
photo was enjoying himself after having gone through major surgery to
have a rear leg amputated – he coped amazingly. Sarah Egginton

62 Dog Friendly
 Competition

3. PLAYTIME
RUNNER UP ALFIE
What you looking at
punk! Alfie loves to
psych out his toys before
pouncing, ATTACK!
Emma Allen

3RD PLACE SIDNEY

Sidney loves any cardboard
box, but if its a biscuit one
he can get over excited
➥

and get his head stuck,

as on this occasion.
Ken Board

Winner Ember
Ember taking a leap of faith.
Elise Jones

4.WHAT A POSER
RUNNER UP INKIE
Inkie’s unable to walk, having
a rare form of Cushing’s, and
so when we saw the Bluebells,
I sat her among them, so
she could have a sniff. She is
still full of spirit, as we use a
stroller for her. She was 15 in
August 2019. Toni Mannell
➥

Fizzy is a rescued puppy farm ex-

breeder, who has been home with
us for seven weeks. Fizzy is around
Winner Dter
Dexter is a four-year-old Airedale
seven and gradually learning to love
life. She is a Schnauzer x Bichon and,
snuggly like a teddy bear. She is the
Terrier. He is a fun loving clown third member of our little pack. Here
who thinks he is a lap dog and she is trying on her new snuggle coat
loves nothing more than exploring by The Dog Comes First. Fizzy’s fur is
the great outdoors then cuddling fine and thin so gets cold easily in this
up with his family. This big lump weather as she walks so slow while
thinks he is a lap dog – if he fits, building up her muscles as she would
he sits! Tracey Pinnington have received no exercise in the puppy
farm. Tracy Bliss

www.dogfriendly.co.uk 63
RUFFWEAR GUIDE
ALL
PIC © SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

AVAILABLE
FROM
rufwear.co.uk

rea t
GOUTDOORS
If you’re heading of into the great outdoors, Rufwear has your dog covered!.

CRAG COLLAR, £22.95,. KNOT-A-LONG LEAD, £32.95.,

REFLECTIVEWEBBING.
The Crag collar combines a user-friendly, side-release buckle with
reflective Tubelok webbing. Packed full of Ruffwear’s essential collar
features: a separate ID tag attachment point with tag silencer,
strong and comfortable webbing, and aluminium V-ring.
REFLECTIVE WITH LOCKING.
CARABINER.
The Ruffwear Knot-a-Long is a rugged, climbing-inspired lead in a 0.76m
length. This short lead uses strong, supple kernmantle rope and a secure
locking carabiner. The short length is ideal for keeping dogs close.

64 DogFriendly
 FERNIE JACKET, £69.95,. FLAGLINE HARNESS, £74.95.,
SWEATER KNIT FLEECE. LIGHTWEIGHT, MULTI-USE.
The Fernie is a technical sweater for dogs, designed for The Flagline harness is a fast, light,
everyday adventures from the trail to town. Advanced and comfortable harness that keeps
sweater-knit fabric has the performance of a technical fleece dogs in their flow, from
jacket with the look of a sweater. Cut in a sleeved style with scrambling in the
a full- backcountry
length to conquering
zipper, the everyday obstacles.
Fernie offers A handle and load-
coverage and dispersing chestbelly
warmth on its panel make for easy
own or as a layer lift-and-assist in a
under other Ruffwear nimble design good
coats for additional warmth. for all-day wear. High adjustability and easy on/off make the Flagline
secure and accessible, giving dogs a little boost and a lot of freedom
when the path ahead is anything but flat.

GRIP TREX PAIRS, £44.95,. APPROACH PACK, £99.95,.

ALL-TERRAIN PAW WEAR. ALL-DAY HIKING.
High-performance boots that feature The Approach pack is an
a rugged and resilient everyday dog pack with
Vibram outsole excellent performance, fit,
that provides and functionality. It provides
exceptional dogs with the ability to carry
traction on a load, generating instant
varied terrain. four-legged motivation
Breathable to explore. The integrated
mesh upper harness enhances fit, pack
provides stability and overall performance.
ventilation and keeps dirt and debris Radial cut saddlebags create a passive compression system
out. Closure system combines hook-and- that is form fitting and better load carrying. Combined with the
loop with hardware, cinching around the lightweight materials and a streamlined design, the Approach
narrowest part of the dog’s leg to provide a secure fit. pack is comfortable and allows dogs to carry trail necessities.
Great for day hikes and overnight adventures.

QUENCHER CINCH TOP BOWL,. QUINZEE JACKET, £94.95,.

£22.9 5, PACKABLE, CLOSABLE,. PACKABLE AND INSULATED.
FOOD AND WATER BOWL. The Quinzee is a packable insulated winter dog coat. Recycled polyester
insulation provides lofty warmth in brisk conditions, while side-release
The Ruffwear Quencher Cinch Top is a twist on Ruffwear’s buckles provide easy adjustment and on/off. The Quinzee stuffs into
original packable dog bowl. Minimise and simplify by storing its integrated stuff sack for convenient storage on the go.
and feeding from this multi-use
fabric bowl. The integrated
drawstring closure keeps
kibble contained en
route and accessible at
mealtime. Great for
hungry dogs on the
trail, at base camp, or
on the go. Available
in two sizes to match
your adventure. 
www.dogfriendly.co.uk 65
RUFFWEAR GUIDE

POLAR TREX DOG BOOTS, £114.95,. FLOAT COAT, £79.95,.

WINTER TRACTION AND. BUOYANT, SECURE, REFLECTIVE.
INSULATION. The Ruffwear Float Coat is the ultimate in canine flotation and water
safety. For dogs that love to join their humans rafting, kayaking,
The Polar Trex dog boating, surfing and paddle boarding, this life jacket is designed for
boots are designed dogs of all shapes and sizes. This is a premium, fully-featured life
for warmth, traction, jacket that includes thoughtful details
and protection in like a strong handle,
winter conditions. optimally
Insulated upper softshell positioned to
fabric creates breathable, weatherproof lift dogs out of
warmth in extreme cold and inclement weather. The Vibram outsole the water, and
provides optimum traction on frozen surfaces. Closure system combines reflective trim for
hook-and-loop with hardware, cinching around the narrowest part of the enhanced visibility
dog’s leg to provide a secure fit. Pullover stretch gaiter keeps snow out in or out of
and improves retention by protecting the hook-and-loop ankle closure the water.
from the elements.

WEB MASTER PRO HARNESS,. POWDER HOUND JACKET,.

£109.95, PROFESSIONAL HARNESS. £99.95, HYBRID INSULATION.
The Web Master Pro harness The Powder Hound is a hybrid dog coat that offers the warmth
is a lift-and-assist harness of synthetic insulation with the range of motion of technical
designed to address the stretch fabric. This weather-resistant and insulated jacket is ideal
needs of professional for cold-weather activities.
avalanche and search
and rescue teams. Built
on the safe, secure,
and proven chassis of
Ruffwear’s Web Master
Harness, the Web Master ALL
Pro incorporates all-metal hardware, AVAILABLE
has an oversized handle for gloved hands, and
FROM
sports two low-profile pockets that carry small essentials rufwear.co.uk
and provides easy sewing of ID patches.

SUN SHOWER JACKET, £54.95,. SUMMIT TREX, £36.95,.

NON-INSULATED FULL COVERAGE. EVERYDAY PAW PROTECTION.
The Sun Shower is a lightweight waterproof raincoat that keeps dogs Summit Trex dog boots provide everyday
comfortable and dry during wet weather adventures. The fold-up storm traction and paw protection from extreme
collar provides added coverage, and a non-insulated design makes the temperatures, abrasive surfaces, and salt
Sun Shower a great option in warmer climates. Side-release buckles or other snowmelt
allow for easy on/off, while reflective trim enhances low-light visibility. chemicals. The
Ruffwear-
designed
outsole
provides
flexible traction,
while the durable,
weather-resistant ripstop upper blocks moisture
and debris. A hook-and-loop closure system creates
a secure and comfortable fit.

66 DogFriendly
 RECOMMENDED DOG FRIENDLY PLACES
Places to stay, eat and drink from across the British Isles

TIME FOR TEA COASTGUARD COTTAGES THE STUDIO VEGAN

Our dog-friendly cafe where coffee and
friends make the perfect blend!
Bridge Street, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire
facebook.com/timeforteakidwelly
Two double bedroom cottages with
panoramic sea views, situated within
a stone’s throw of Southbourne beach.
Southbourne, Bournemouth, Dorset
coastguard-cottages.com
& VEGETARIAN RETREAT
A secluded retreat for vegan and vegetarian
guests where your four-legged friends
are also welcome.
Brockweir, Monmouthshire, Wye Valley
facebook.com/thestudioretreat

COAST KITCHEN ADMIRAL BENBOW OLD CHAPEL IN SWAY

A dog friendly, warm and welcoming eatery
just behind Waxham beach and 2 minutes
from Sea Palling and Horsey. Serves brunch,
lunch and afternoon tea. Coast Road,
Waxham, Norfolk, Norfolk Broads
thecoastkitchencafe.co.uk
We welcome dogs of all sizes at one of
Cornwall’s most characterful pubs. A small
17th century building that seems to go on
and on. Packed with nautical memorabilia.
Chapel Street, Penzance, Cornwall
thebenbow.com
The Old Chapel is a peaceful self-catering
bed and breakfast accommodation. It is
set in the heart of The New Forest on the
outskirts of Sway village.
Sway, Hampshire, New Forest
oldchapelsway.co.uk

THE POTTING SHED NEAR EDGE HOLIDAYS COATES ENGLISH WILLOW

The Potting Shed is small residence for
1 or 2 people to stay in complete compact
comfort with their four-legged friend. Open
plan kitchen, living area and bedroom.
Okehampton, Devon, Dartmoor
pottingsheddartmoor.com
Near Edge Farm is located in the beautiful
hamlet of Branthwaite in the Lake District,
and is ideally located between the coast
and the Lake District.
Workington, Cumbria, Lake District
facebook.com/nearedgeholidays
Based on the Somerset Levels, find out
about our 200-year-old family business
of willow growing and basket making.
While here, take a stroll on a Willow Walk.
Stoke St Gregory, Taunton, Somerset
englishwillowbaskets.co.uk

THE WHITE HART MORETON
A charming pub in the beautiful village
of Moreton, superb walking trails surround
The White Hart. Enjoy our large range
of beer and ales.
Bridge Road, Moreton, Essex
thewhitehartmoreton.co.uk
SOMERSET GARDEN YURT
AND GYPSY CARAVAN
Enjoy direct access to stunning, traffic free
walks. Set in a third of an acre, our whole
site is exclusively yours as we only take
one booking at a time. Taunton, Somerset,
Mendip Hills. gardenyurt.co.uk
BORDER FOREST HOLIDAY PARK
We are a quiet family run holiday park
covering 70 acres of land situated next
to the national park, with direct access
onto the Kielder Forest.
Nr Otterburn, Northumberland, Scottish
Borders. borderforest.com

TRELAWN BOARDING KENNELS PERFECT PET SERVICES – PERFECT CHRISVALE KENNELS

DOG SERVICES

A popular and friendly dog kennels set in
the North Devon countryside. We offer a
first-class grooming service on site. South
Molton, Devon. trelawnboardingkennels-
southmolton.co.uk
DOGGY DAYCARE & GROOMING CENTRE
Offering pet services throughout
Monmouthshire by caring for dogs, cats
and all other animals. Llanvaches, Caldicot,
Monmouthshire. perfectpetservices.com
Established for almost 40 years, we are
situated on the Lancashire moors. Our
business comprises 20 kennels, including
six newly built luxury suites. Darwen,
Lancashire. chrisvalekennels.com

Want your property to feature here? If you would like your dog friendly property to be shown here, become a featured listing on our
website and we will show your listing in DogFriendly magazine. For more information visit www.dogfriendly.co.uk/advertisers.
 UK’s leading natural pet store
Huge฀choices฀of฀everything฀for฀dogs฀and฀cats.฀

•฀Gorgeous฀beds฀ •฀Veterinary฀Centre฀ •฀฀Natural฀supplements

•฀Accessories฀ •฀Doggy฀Deli฀ •฀฀Tasting฀table฀
•฀Leads฀&฀Collars •฀Experts฀in฀pet฀care •฀฀Self-service฀dog฀wash
HUGE RANGES OF RAW COMPLETE PET FOODS.

ALL DOGS WELCOME LOTS OF FUSS AND TREATS.

YOU CAN’T GET THAT ONLINE

Scampers Natural Pet Store On the Soham Bypass A142, Northfield Road, Soham, Ely Cambs CB7 5UE
Tel 01353 720431 info@scampers.co.uk www.scampers.co.uk

Easy Parking, open 7 days a week