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
OUR OFFICE DOGS’
WALKIES
RYDAL CAVES
“Cody, our five-year-old Cavapoodle has as much energy as our children, so Rydal Caves always make for a fun, family walk. The circular trail isn’t too challenging for little legs, and the caves add to the adventure.”
CROSS BAY WALKS
“Cumbria is surrounded by some amazing coastline, which Orla loves and this summer her excitement peaked when she got to take part in one of the regular Cross Bay Walks from Arnside to Grange-over-Sands.”
Visit guideoversands.co.uk to find out when you can join the supervised Cross Bay Walk.
RAVENGLASS AND ESKDALE
“Lennon, our two year old rottie cross, just loves to travel on trains so we took a trip on the Ravenglass to Eskdale Railway. With stops along the way between the two main stations it’s a dog walker’s paradise, with something for all abilities and a combination of coast, fells and woodlands.”
Head
BLACK BECK HOLIDAY PARK
Black Beck offers superb dog-friendly accommodation, including cottages, lodges, glamping pods, and touring pitches. We offer short breaks and Holiday Home ownership. With picturesque views, in a stunning woodland setting, and a dog-friendly pub nearby, dogs are sure to enjoy their stay with us too!
www.partingtons.com
Bouth, Near Newby Bridge, LA12 8JN Tel: 01253 879911
BORROWDALE HOTEL
Experience the perfect getaway with your furry friend at the charming Borrowdale Hotel. Discover warm hospitality, great food and breath-taking surroundings, as dogs are invited to share unforgettable adventures by your side. Open daily for delicious meals and relaxing overnight accommodation.
Borrowdale Valley, Keswick, CA12 5UY Tel: 017687 77224
GEORGE AND DRAGON, CLIFTON
A stylish country inn with a cosy bar and eleven comfortable bedrooms, individually designed and decorated. Enjoy fresh, seasonal food, local ales and fine wines in our relaxing and welcoming restaurant. We grow and rear much of our produce. Sister establishment of Askham Hall and the Queen’s Head.
Clifton, Penrith, CA10 2ER Tel: 01768 865381
ACCOMMODATION
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
LAKE DISTRICT ESTATES HOLIDAYS
BOOK your adventure. STAY in picturesque locations. LOVE your perfect escape. Choose dog-friendly glamping or self-catering accommodation. Our rural and lakeside parks are ‘pawfect’ for both relaxing and adventure-filled breaks. Cottages, lodges or apartments and holiday homes for sale. Dog welcome pack on arrival.
Lake District Estates self-catering in Windermere, Ullswater, Kirkby Lonsdale, Caldbeck, Carnforth | Tel: 01539 587842 www.lakedistrictestates.com
MACDONALD LEEMING HOUSE HOTEL
Luxury Accommodation in the beautiful setting of 22 acres of gardens and secluded woodland. Our dog friendly rooms have direct access to the gardens and lake and our reception boasts a dog friendly station with free treats. Dog beds and bowls on request. Watermillock, Penrith, CA11 0JJ Tel: 017684 86674 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/ leeming-house
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ACCOMMODATION
MATSON GROUND HOLIDAYS
Tucked away on our farms close to Windermere and Ullswater, we have three pet-friendly cottages that all the family will love.
With gardens and miles of footpaths to explore from the door, they’re the perfect place for you and your dog in the heart of the Lakes.
www.matsonground.co.uk
Matson Ground, Windermere, LA23 3NA | Tel: 015394 45756
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, including a dedicated dog exercise area.
Netherby, Longtown, Carlisle, CA6 5PR Tel: 01228 792732 www.netherbyhall.co.uk
QUEEN’S HEAD ASKHAM
A cosy 17th century village pub with bedrooms and part of the esteemed Ciel Hotels, 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, 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.
Back Green, Hesket Newmarket, nr Caldbeck, CA7 8JG | Tel: 016973 45116 www.rosecottageinthelakes.co.uk
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.
Threlkeld, Keswick, CA12 4SQ Tel: 01768 779614
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.
The Estate Office, The Bridge, Coniston LA21 8HJ | Tel: 015394 41765 www.coppermines.co.uk
THE FLEECE AT RULEHOLME
The Fleece at Ruleholme is a traditional country inn which marries rural charm and comfort with luxury, decadence, and unrivalled quality. Whether you’re joining us to dine, drink, celebrate, or to relax for a few nights away – we are open for food - 12-3pm / 5-9pm. Last orders 15 minutes prior to closure. Sandwich menu available from 3-4pm.
www.thefleeceruleholme.com
Ruleholme, Irthington, Carlisle, CA6 4NF
Tel: 01228 832030
ACCOMMODATION
THE OLD VICARAGE
Quiet wooded grounds in central Ambleside. Dogs stay free, with walks straight from the door. Car park. Easy access to village, lakes and fells. More than just B & B! Indoor pool, sauna, hottub and patio. All en-suite with separate bath and walk-in shower. Optional breakfast in room. Wi-fi and Roku-tv.
www.oldvicarageambleside.co.uk
Vicarage Road, Ambleside, LA22 9DH
Tel: 015394 33364
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THE TRANQUIL OTTER
Enjoy The Tranquil Otter’s secluded 5-star luxury lakeside lodges for a stay you’ll never forget. The perfect base to explore the natural beauty of the Lake District, Northern Fells and Cumbrian Coast with the treasures and shops of historic Carlisle just 5 miles away.
You’ll love our luxury lodges with their log burners, hot tubs, saunas, barbecues, boats and lake view - the perfect setting for quality time with loved ones.
Relish the privacy and peace; explore the many birds, trees, plants and wild creatures of the lake and woodlands of our own nature reserve.
Bring the family, friends and – yes, of course, your four-legged friends too.
The Lough, Thurstonfield, Carlisle, CA5 6HB
Tel: 01228 576661
THE ROYAL OAK HOTEL, ROSTHWAITE
The idea of waving your dog goodbye at the kennels is a thing of the past! There’s no need to leave your doggie at home when you stay at the newly refurbished Royal Oak in the Borrowdale Valley. We’ve got it covered: beautiful bedrooms with dreamy beds and gleaming bathrooms, hearty breakfast, delicious evening dinner and charmful lounges.
www.royaloakhotel.co.uk
Rosthwaite, CA12 5XB
Tel: 01768 777214
PLACES TO EAT
LANGDALE CHASE HOTEL
Featuring spectacular grounds, a wraparound terrace and delicious food, treat your four-legged friend to a trip to Langdale Chase. Dogs are welcome in all areas of the hotel apart from the Dining Room, and they may even find the hotel’s resident dog, Eddie, roaming around.
www.langdalechase.co.uk
Ambleside Road, Ecclerigg, Windermere, LA23 1LW | Tel: 01539 432201
NORTH LAKES HOTEL & SPA
As dog lovers, North Lakes Hotel & Spa takes care of canine companions from the moment they arrive till their last tail ‘wag’ goodbye.
With all dogs’ welcome in the hotel’s bar area, why not enjoy a delicious meal with your paw-tner in crime?
www.northlakeshotel.co.uk
Ullswater Road, Penrith, CA11 8QT Tel: 01768 868111
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.
Penton, Carlisle, CA6 5QB
Tel: 01228 586636
PLACES TO EAT
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.
Tel: 01229 717676 www.ravenglass-railway.co.uk/ plan-your-visit/the-ratty-arms
Croftlands Drive, Ravenglass, CA18 1SN
ALLAN BANK
Once home to William Wordsworth this historic villa offers stunning views and space to relax. Inside you’ll find informal rooms with a second-hand book shop, exhibition space and a giant wall mural. Outdoors there’s 19th century wooded pleasure grounds to explore. Dogs are welcome indoors and 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. 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 33250
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, miniature pencil sculptures, the worlds largest coloured pencil. We are open all year round. There’s more to a pencil than you think!
www.derwentart.com
Cardingmill Lane, Southy Works, Keswick, CA12 5NG | Tel: 01768 773626
Annapurna Mellor
National Trust Images/ Steven Barber
ATTRACTIONS
DOG WALKS WITH MISTY’S MINI GUIDES
BIG-dog friendly hiking guidebooksenjoy superb Lakeland walks without lifting your bestie over stiles! Available from Amazon, Bookends of Keswick, Sam Read Booksellers of Grasmere, Catstycam Outdoor Shop of Glenridding and more - see website for full list of stockists.
Navigation training also available.
www.mistysguidedwalks.co.uk
Available at bookshops in Keswick, Grasmere and Glenridding.
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
HUTTON-IN-THE-FOREST
Lord and Lady Inglewood’s beautiful historic home is a glorious mixture of architectural styles. The Walled Garden, full of colourful owers, is the highlight of extensive grounds that give Hutton its magnificent setting. Dogs are very welcome in the gardens, woodland walk and the tearoom.
www.hutton-in-the-forest.co.uk
Hutton-in-the-Forest, Penrith, CA11 9TH | Tel: 017684 84449
ATTRACTIONS
KESWICK LAUNCH
Dogs travel for free on all launches. See the spectacular scenery of Derwentwater by Launch and hop on and off as you like, to walk around the lake or climb the mountains with your four-legged friend.
Rowing boats and self-drive motor boats are available to hire.
www.keswick-launch.co.uk
Derwentwater Foreshore, Keswick, CA12 5DJ | Tel: 017687 72263
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LAKE DISTRICT FORESTS: GRIZEDALE FOREST & WHINLATTER FOREST
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 our dog friendly exhibition space, shop 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 out on the 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: 01768 778469
RUUP, Birgit Oigus (2018)
ATTRACTIONS
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
LAKESIDE & HAVERTHWAITE RAILWAY
Be transported back in time as you take this nostalgic 20 minute Steam Train journey through beautiful Lakeland views, travelling between Haverthwaite & Lakeside Station. Spend a while at Haverthwaite Station, you will find… a Tea Room, Gift Shop, Engine Shed, Woodland Playground and Walk.
Haverthwaite Station, Nr Ulverston, LA12 8AL | Tel: 015395 31594 www.lakesiderailway.co.uk
RAVENGLASS & ESKDALE RAILWAY
Enjoy seven miles of spectacular scenery at our narrow-gauge steam railway. Dogs welcome (except premium carriages) for a small charge. Museum, café’s, pub, gift shops and local walks. Rover Ticket - all year travel for pooches and complimentary bandana. Open March–November. See website for timetables.
www.ravenglass-railway.co.uk
Ravenglass Station, Ravenglass, CA18 1SW | Tel: 01229 717171
ATTRACTIONS
SIZERGH
With 1,600 acres to explore, the Sizergh estate is the perfect place to step out with your dog and let them burn off some energy - just please make sure they’re on a lead around livestock and nesting birds. Dogs are also welcome on a lead in the shop and café.
nationaltrust.org.uk/sizergh
near Kendal, LA8 8DZ
Tel: 015395 60951
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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). Rover Ticket - all year travel for pooches and complimentary bandana. Check out the new Dog Station at Glenridding. See website for all details.
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. 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
Low Wray, Ambleside, LA22 0JA
Tel: 015394 33250
SIR WOOFCHESTER’S
Sir Woofchester’s Canine Hospitalityproducts are available to purchase off a variety of high quality Lake District pubs, inns, hotels, cafes and gift shops. We hope your dog loves them as much as we do!
www.sirwoofchesters.com
hospitality@sirwoofchesters.com
Tel: 01229 877 277
WCF LAKES COLLECTION DOG FOOD
Our Lakes Collection pet food range is created in the heart of Cumbria. Crafted with premium ingredients, high-protein recipes, in a variety of avours, with ingredients responsibly sourced from trusted UK farms and fisheries. Available online or in any WCF Pet & Equestrian stores today!
WCF Pet & Equestrian Cumbrian stores in Cockermouth, Carlisle, Penrith, Ulverston and Wigton | 016977 45080 info@wcfpetandequestrian.co.uk www.lakescollection.co.uk
MAP & SYMBOLS
Photo Credits: Cover - Dogs Love Cumbria Guide cover competition winner: Ralph snapped by owner Heather McMillan enjoying
Raven Crag. Plus, Rita Tuska, Tom Prestwich and Alice Roberts.
