The 21 Best Dog Friendly Hotels in the Lake District (2025)

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With all those fells, woods and lakeside paths crying out to be walked and explored, it’s no surprise that the Lake District is a big attraction for dog-owners. Many hotels and pubs go out of their way to welcome both dogs – indeed, all sorts of pets – and their owners. The best dog-friendly hotels in the Lake District vary from traditional inns in more remote villages and valleys to top of the range luxury hotels. Many offer treats and welcome packs, some have ground-floor rooms with direct access to the property's grounds and others allow dogs to sit alongside owners at meal-times.

For a rural stay

• The Queen's Head- Wake up to sweeping Windermere views at this stylish pub. Step straight from your room onto lakeside walks, then unwind in interiors full of character, with cosy nooks and a vibrant bar serving hearty local dishes. Perfect for dogs who love exploring alongside you.
• Wasdale Head Inn is a mountaineer’s haven at the remote head of Wasdale. Access epic fells like Scafell Pike and Great Gable right from the door. Dogs are welcome in both the rustic inn and self-catering cottages, making it ideal for adventurous pairs seeking rugged trails and hearty pub meals.
• Set beside a tranquil lake, Haweswater Hotel boasts bright, airy rooms and lakeside gardens perfect for relaxing walks with your dog. Enjoy hearty meals in its cosy restaurant and take in uninterrupted countryside views for a rejuvenating retreat. 
• The Masons Arms- Dogs stroll straight into rooms with private terraces at this welcoming inn. Nestled in south-eastern Lake District countryside, it’s ideal for gentle walks and relaxed dining in a friendly, homely atmosphere where pups are treated like VIP guests.
• Step into The Hare and Hounds' warm, homely vibe. Dogs are embraced here, while you enjoy traditional cask ales and hearty pub meals. The rustic interiors and countryside setting make it a perfect base for leisurely rambles with your four-legged companion.
• The George and Dragon is a gastropub designed with dogs in mind. Special welcome packs, curated walking routes, and hearty meals for humans make this near-Penrith spot a treat. Charming interiors and attentive service ensure both you and your dog feel completely at home.

For luxury

• Set in charming grounds, The Forest Side’s ground-floor rooms open straight onto landscaped gardens. Interiors mix contemporary comfort with classic Lake District touches. Guests can wander the surrounding greenery with their dogs, making it a peaceful retreat that’s both stylish and welcoming.
• Linthwaite House Hotel offers three ground-floor rooms with garden access, designed with warm, boutique interiors. Dogs are pampered with bowls and beds, and the hotel’s terrace and sweeping views make it perfect for strolls and unwinding in true Lakes luxury.
• Nestled on Windermere’s eastern slopes, Holbeck Ghyll Hotel features dog-friendly bedrooms in a separate block. With a Michelin-starred restaurant, manicured gardens, and a spa, it balances Lake District charm with refined elegance, giving dogs and owners space to relax side by side.
• The Samling Hotel offers stunning lakeside vistas and dog-friendly rooms with private access to walking routes. The interiors showcase understated luxury, while the restaurant’s locally inspired cuisine and expansive grounds make it an ideal haven for both owners and their four-legged companions.
• Applegarth Villa welcomes dogs in two suites, each furnished in chic contemporary style. Pets receive a thoughtful welcome pack, while owners can enjoy lakeside walks and a sleek, boutique atmosphere, blending comfort with style in the heart of Windermere.
• At Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa, dogs are welcome in the library lounge during meals, offering a rare way to dine together. Rooms feature classic Lake District decor, and the spa, waterfalls, and woodland walks ensure a scenic, indulgent stay for all.

For a stay in a town

• Sun Inn- This welcoming inn rolls out doggy packs and lets pups join owners in the lively bar area. Rustic interiors with exposed beams create a cosy atmosphere, while hearty pub meals make it a perfect pitstop after exploring nearby Lake District trails.
• Nestled near the Howgill Fells, The Black Bull, Sedbergh is a traditional pub that keeps tails wagging with a dog-friendly bar and hearty fare. Its warm interiors, wood-burning fires, and easy access to scenic walks make it ideal for adventurers with four-legged companions.
• Right in Keswick’s bustling heart, The Royal Oak, Keswick invites dogs to linger alongside their owners. Its timbered interiors, lively bar, and central location make it a convenient base for exploring lakes, trails, and town charm with your pooch.
• At Lindeth Howe, ground-floor rooms open straight onto manicured gardens, perfect for morning stretches or evening strolls with your dog. Elegant interiors and a peaceful lakeside setting make this historic property a refined escape for nature lovers.
• Set on the edge of Grasmere village, Lancrigg offers instant access to fells and lakeshore walks. Charming country interiors, cosy lounges, and scenic gardens provide a tranquil retreat for dogs and their owners.
• Minutes from Windermere, Rothay Manor offers lakeside access and expansive gardens for canine companions. Refined rooms, elegant dining, and proximity to lakeshore paths make it a stylish yet approachable spot for exploring the outdoors.
• Families and dogs are warmly welcomed at The Crown Inn at Pooley Bridge, a riverside inn. Traditional interiors, a lively bar, and kid-friendly touches pair with easy access to Ullswater’s scenic walks for a fuss-free, family-oriented stay.
• The Halston- Dogs are greeted with bowls and treats in this modern aparthotel. Sleek, contemporary apartments with flexible layouts provide a comfortable base for exploring Carlisle’s streets and nearby countryside with your furry friend.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include our selection of all the best hotels in the Lake District,
• Explore our suggestions for all the best places to stay in Cumbria,
• Alternatively, contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.