Dogs Love Cumbria - The Official Guide

DOGS LOVE CUMBRIA OFFICIAL GUIDE

THE OFFICIAL GUIDE TO DOG FRIENDLY PLACES TO EAT, SLEEP, SHOP AND VISIT ACROSS THE LAKE DISTRICT, CUMBRIA…

A pawfect trip to Cumbria

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

There are plenty of great places to stay, brilliant dog friendly attractions, fantastic eateries, and so much more to discover. You’ll be spoilt for choice, but don’t worry: we’ve got you covered with our guide to a pawfect trip to the Lake District, Cumbria. Plus, we’ve included a helpful guide to for the countryside, so you can be confident in bringing your pet along in a way that’s kind to the local wildlife, farm animals and other visitors. All things considered, you’d be barking mad to miss out on a pawsome time in Cumbria!

5 REASONS WHY DOGS LOVE CUMBRIA

Cumbria is an utterly pawfect place for a dog friendly adventure. No matter what time of year you’re visiting with your four-legged friend, there’s so much to see and do. Here are 5 reasons why dogs love Cumbria.

1 . WALKIES FOR EVERYONE

In the Lake District, Cumbria, the great outdoors is accessible to all. Check out Miles Without Stiles: a collection of paths with no stiles, great for wheelchair users and pushchairs as they are easier to walk – they’re brilliant for chilled out pooches too.

2 . DOG FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS

If your dog likes to discover history and heritage, they’ll be spoilt for choice. From castles to heritage steam trains, there are plenty of dog friendly attractions across the county – so you can both soak up the local culture.

3 . CATCH SOME ZZZ’S

Dog friendly accommodation? We’ve got you covered! You and your dog can rest your heads in hotels, self-catering holiday cottages, campsites, B&Bs, and plenty more across the area. Some even offer extra treats like pet towels and toys. Paaaaaawfect !

4 . DID SOMEONE SAY DIN DINS?

Whether it’s a Michelin starred dining experience, a cosy local pub, or a casual day time café, there are plenty of places to eat which will also welcome your dog.

5 . LET’S HIT THE BEACH

Running along the sand, wind in your ears and salty air on your tongue: there’s nothing quite like a trip to the beach. We’ve got plenty here and dogs with well behaved humans are welcome!

Head to visitlakedistrict.com for more pawsome ideas and inspiration.

Dog Etiquette

BE ESPECIALLY VIGILANT AROUND LIVESTOCK

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

PROTECT OUR BEAUTIFUL WILDLIFE

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

PROTECT AGAINST ANIMAL & INSECT BITES

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

PICK UP AFTER YOUR POOCH

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

RESPECT OTHER VISITORS

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

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

For more ‘pawsome’ adventures: visitlakedistrict.com

MASONS ARMS

An idyllic country inn and hotel nestled in blissful countryside, with sweeping 15-mile views across a quilt of fields towards Scout Scar. Treat yourself to a relaxing stay, indulge in mouthwatering dishes, and create unforgettable moments with your canine companion. Strawberry Bank, Cartmel Fell, LA11 6NW Tel: 015395 68486

masonsarmsstrawberrybank.co.uk

PENTONBRIDGE INN

Nestled on the English - Scottish border Pentonbridge Inn offers a relaxed and refined dining experience. Enjoy the delights of the kitchen or relax with a tasty drink for you and your four-legged friend.

Our restaurant was awarded a Michelin star in April 2023.

www.pentonbridgeinn.co.uk

Penton, Carlisle, CA6 5QB

Tel: 01228 586636

PLATO’S

Open from 11am daily, Plato’s is a vibrant wine bar with a sociable welcoming atmosphere. Perfectly situated in the heart of Kirkby Lonsdale, you and your pooch can stay in one of our beautiful rooms, enjoy award winning food, cocktails, wine and more.

www.platoskirkbylonsdale.co.uk

2 Mill Brow, Kirkby Lonsdale, LA6 2AT

Tel: 015242 74180

GRID REF: F1

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GRID REF: H11

GRID REF: F10 aepytD

THE RATTY ARMS, RAVENGLASS

A historic pub on the Cumbrian Coast Line by the Ravenglass and Eskdale Steam Railway. It’s the ‘pawfect’ place to enjoy a pint with your pooch, with dogs welcome in all public areas. Serving a delicious menu of hot and cold meals, snacks, and desserts.

www.ravenglass-railway.co.uk/ the-ratty-arms

Croftlands Drive, Ravenglass, CA18 1SN Tel: 01229 717676

THE WHEATSHEAF INN

Tucked away in the delightful hamlet of Brigsteer, and close to the medieval market town of Kendal, the historic inn boasts panoramic views of the Lyth Valley and beyond. Enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, a comfortable stay and a picturesque setting where wagging tails are always welcome!

www.thewheatsheafbrigsteer.co.uk

Brigsteer Brow, Brigsteer, Kendal, LA8 8AN Tel: 01539 266026

GRID REF: B9

GRID REF: G10

ALLAN BANK

Allan Bank, once home to William Wordsworth, is a historic villa that combines a small art gallery with a giant indoor mural space. Outdoors there’s 19th century wooded pleasure grounds to explore, with inspiring lake and mountain views. Dogs are most welcome, inside or out.

nationaltrust.org.uk/allan-bank

Grasmere, Ambleside, LA22 9QB Tel: 015394 35143

CLAIFE VIEWING STATION AND WINDERMERE WEST SHORE

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

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

Near: Far Sawrey, Hawkshead. Tel: 015394 41456

DERWENT PENCIL MUSEUM

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

Discover the secret WW2 pencil, Pencil Sculptures and the Worlds Largest Coloured Pencil.

Open all year round. There’s more to a pencil than you think!

www.derwentart.com

Main St, Cardingmill Lane, Southy Works, Keswick CA12 5NG. Tel: 01768 773626

GRID REF: E8

©National Trust Images/ Annapurna Mellor

GRID REF: F10

©National Trust Images/ Steven Barber

GRID REF: E6

FELL FOOT PARK ON WINDERMERE

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

nationaltrust.org.uk/fell-foot

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

LAKELAND MOTOR MUSEUM

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

www.lakelandmotormuseum.co.uk

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

GRID REF: E11

GRID REF: F10

LAKE DISTRICT FORESTS: GRIZEDALE FOREST & WHINLATTER FOREST 11

Grizedale, in the heart of the Lake District National Park, is just 30 minutes from Bowness-on-Windermere. Explore our waymarked trails as you pass amazing sculptures from leading artists scattered throughout the forest alongside your four-legged friend before exploring the dog friendly exhibition space and café.

Whinlatter is England’s only true mountain forest, home to stunning landscapes, fantastic walking and exhilarating mountain biking for humans and dogs alike. There’s nowhere better for both adventure and peaceful woodland walks, with plenty of opportunities afterwards to enjoy our dog friendly café, visitor centre and shop –and don’t miss our brand new Wow Trail!

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

Grizedale Forest, Hawkshead, Nr Ambleside, LA22 0QJ

Whinlatter Forest, Braithwaite, Keswick, CA12 5TW

Tel: Grizedale: 0300 067 4495 • Whinlatter: 017687 78469

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RAVENGLASS & ESKDALE RAILWAY

Enjoy seven miles of spectacular scenery at our narrow gauge steam railway. Dogs are welcome (except premium carriages) for a small charge. There’s lots to do, with a museum, cafés, pub, gift shops, and local walks.

Open March – November. See website for timetables and information.

www.ravenglass-railway.co.uk

Ravenglass Station, Ravenglass, CA18 1SW

Tel: 01229 717171

GRID REFS: E10 & D6

RUUP, Birgit Oigus (2018)

forestryengland.uk/grizedale

forestryengland.uk/whinlatter

GRID REF: B9, C9

ULLSWATER ‘STEAMERS’

Enjoy a lake cruise on Ullswater, with spectacular mountain views. Our heritage vessels connect with famous walking routes and welcome dogs (small charge applies). Facilities and licensed bars on board. Light refreshments and free Wi-Fi available in pier houses. See website for timetables and information.

www.ullswater-steamers.co.uk

Glenridding Pier House, Glenridding, CA11 0US | Pooley Bridge Pier House, Pooley Bridge, CA10 2NN Tel: 017684 82229

WRAY CASTLE

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

nationaltrust.org.uk/wray-castle

Low Wray, Ambleside, LA22 0JA Tel: 015394 33250

GRID REF: F7, G6, G7

GRID REF: F9

©National Trust Images/ Annapurna Mellor

on social media so that we can find them.

#THEPERFECTPLACETOBE

We would love to see your snaps of you and your four-legged friend exploring our beautiful corner of the world, so please use

AMBLESIDE DOG WALKER

Award winning, family run dog care service providing Lake District wide Deluxe Dog Sitting and local Day Care services for visitors as well as Dapper Dog Wedding Services for all your wedding dog care needs. Our experienced, friendly team are qualified, insured, licensed and DBS checked.

www.amblesidedogwalker.com

Kirkfield, Ambleside, LA22 9HA

Tel: 07944 615819

HSIR WOOFCHESTER’S

Sir Woofchester’s... look for us in your local pub or hotel!

We hope you enjoy Sir Woofchester’s unique dog treats, meals and beverages on your visit to Cumbria. Look out for our Dog Menus – for example featuring Bark Burgers, Doggy Fish & Chips, and Holiday

Welcome Treats!

www.sirwoofchesters.com

hospitality@sirwoofchesters.com

Tel: 01229 877 277

GRID REF: F9

ACCOMMODATION

ARMATHWAITE HALL HOTEL AND SPA

Boutique spa hotel with stunning lake and mountain views - red four-star oasis in the Lake District. Indulge in our exquisite restaurant and bar, rejuvenate in our award-winning spa, and cuddle with your furry friend in our newly appointed dog-friendly Suites with garden terraces.

www.armathwaite-hall.com

Bassenthwaite Lake, Keswick, CA12 4RE Tel: 017687 76551

BORROWDALE HOTEL

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

www.lakedistricthotels.net/ borrowdalehotel/

Borrowdale Valley, Keswick, CA12 5UY Tel: 017687 77224

HILLCROFT PARK

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

www.hillcroftpark.co.uk

Roe Head Lane, Pooley Bridge, Penrith CA10 2LT Tel: 017684 86363

GRID REF: D5

GRID REF: D7

GRID REF: G6

LAKE DISTRICT ESTATES HOLIDAYS

BOOK your adventure. STAY in picturesque locations. LOVE your perfect escape. With a choice of dog-friendly glamping or self-catering accommodation, and holiday homes for sale, our rural and lakeside parks are ‘pawfect’ for both relaxing and adventure-filled breaks. Cottages, lodges, apartments, pods and more.

www.lakedistrictestates.com

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

MACDONALD LEEMING HOUSE HOTEL

Luxury accommodation in the beautiful setting of 22 acres of gardens and secluded woodland. We have a dog friendly station in our conservatory with free treats, dog bags and our dog friendly rooms have access to the garden and lake and a dog food menu.

www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/ leeming-house

Watermillock, Penrith, CA11 0JJ Tel: 017684 86674

MACDONALD OLD ENGLAND HOTEL & SPA

The Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa, offers pet friendly accommodation in the heart of the Lakes.

Situated on the shores of Windermere our dog friendly rooms offer a dog bed, treats, food and water bowls.

www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/ old-england

23 Church Street, Bowness on Windermere, LA23 3DF Tel: 01539 487890

GRID REF: G6, F10, H11

GRID REF: F7

GRID REF: F9

NETHERBY HALL

This outstanding grade II* mansion house in Longtown, Cumbria is steeped in history. Accommodation stands in 36 acres of parklands with extensive lawns, Victorian pleasure garden and walled garden. Our self-catering accommodation has everything you and your four-legged friend will need for a relaxing break.

www.netherbyhall.co.uk

Netherby, Longtown, Carlisle CA6 5PR Tel: 01228 792732

QUEEN’S HEAD ASKHAM

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

www.queensheadaskham.co.uk

Askham, Penrith CA10 2PF Tel: 01931 712350

QUEENS HEAD, HAWKSHEAD

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

www.queensheadhawkshead.co.uk

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

GRID REF:

GRID REF: F1

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GRID REF: G6

QUEENS HEAD, TROUTBECK

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

www.queensheadtroutbeck.pub

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

ROSE COTTAGE IN THE LAKES

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

www.rosecottageinthelakes.co.uk

Hesket Newmarket, Wigton CA7 8JG Tel: 016973 45116

SALUTATION INN, THRELKELD

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

www.thesalutation.co.uk

Threlkeld, Keswick CA12 4SQ Tel: 01768 606840

GRID REF: F9

GRID REF: E5

STANWIX PARK HOLIDAY CENTRE

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

www.stanwix.com

Greenrow, Silloth, Cumbria. CA7 4HH Tel: 01697 332666

THE COPPERMINES LAKES COTTAGES

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

www.coppermines.co.uk

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

THE CROWN INN

Situated in the heart of the Lake District, the Crown Inn, Coniston, offers a warm and comfortable haven to relax, ramble and relish the surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re walking up the Old Man of Coniston, or exploring the waters of Windermere, the team will welcome muddy boots, paws, and all.

www.crowninnconiston.co.uk

Tiberthwaite Avenue, Coniston, LA21 8ED Tel: 015394 41243

GRID REF: C3

GRID REF: E9

The pawfect base for the whole family

As dog lovers, Daniel Thwaites knows how to treat their four-legged guests. From the moment they arrive to their last ‘wag’ goodbye, beloved pets receive tempting treats, towels for mucky paws, doggie dinners and a sausage for breakfast.

North Lakes Hotel & Spa, Penrith

The hotel’s dog-friendly rooms have their own entrance, so guests and their pooches can come and go as they please. Resident dog, Eddie, also posts his favourite walking routes for other canine companions to enjoy.

Crown Inn, Pooley Bridge

Soak up the beautiful views from the rooftop terrace or enjoy popular nearby hiking routes, perfect for guests and their paw-tners in crime.

After a busy day out on the fells, guests and their furry friends can enjoy an array of delicious pub classics at the 18th-century coaching inn, before settling into their comfy bedroom for a well-deserved rest.

The Royal Oak, Keswick

Castle Guards Farm

Glamping Retreat

Each pod has:

* Fully equipped kitchen

* Ensuite shower room

* All bedding, towels and dressing gowns provided

* Free WiFi

* 2 car parking spaces

* Optional wood-fired hot tubs

Visiting with a group?

Why not take over the whole site! Catering for up to 24 people, it’s a popular option.

There’s also an onsite shop; and lots of extras can be added to your stay - think balloons for celebrations, BBQ packs for your firepit, and many more...all supporting local businesses.

castleguards.co.uk

Located in Cockermouth on a family farm, Castle Guards Farm Retreat offers 4 luxury Glamping Pods, each sleeping up to 6.

A small, family run glamping business in the north west Lakes.

MAP & SYMBOLS

KEY TO SYMBOLS & AWARDS

KEY TO MAP

Railway National Park boundaries

Line of Hadrian’s Wall

Tourist Information Centres

H Booking essential

h Booking advisable

c Wet weather attraction

d Dogs welcome throughout the whole attraction

b On a bus route (within easy walking distance)

t Picnic/outdoor eating area

D Water/drinking bowl

C Electric vehicle charging point

R Electric bike charging point

w Majority of property accessible to all wheelchair users

DON’T WORRY! NO DOGS WERE HARMED DURING THE FOLDING OF THIS

Visitor Information Centres

Visitor Information Points

For up to date information and due to possible reduced opening hours during winter months, please check before travelling.

Published in September 2023 by Cumbria Tourism, the official Tourist Board for Cumbria. www.visitlakedistrict.com

Photo Credits: Cover - Dogs Love Cumbria

Guide cover competition winner: Roy snapped by owner Ingrid Colley at Buttermere. Plus Charlotte Inglesfield, Calysta Bleasby and Sally Kirkham.

Designed by www.nineteentrees.co.uk on behalf of Cumbria Tourism. Printed on paper that comes from a responsible and sustainable source.

Entries in this leaflet have been paid for and details supplied by individual advertisers. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that information is correct at the time of going to print, details may change. Cumbria Tourism accepts no responsibility for changes, errors or omissions or for the inconvenience arising therefrom.