Dog-friendly Scotland
Explore Scotland's dog-friendly destinations for an ideal holiday with your four-legged friend. Whether it's a quaint hotel, cosy cottage, B&B, or a charming country house, find the perfect spot for a short break with your pooch. Discover stunning Scottish landscapes and create lasting memories on your next adventure.
Kelso, ScotlandThis detached cottage is ideal for families or two couples looking to escape to the picturesque Scottish Borders. This three-bedroom cottage sleeps five people comfortably in the three bedrooms which are fitted as a kingsize room, double room and single room.
Located near to the towns of Kelso which is 6 miles away, and Duns which is 8 miles away, West Cottage was part of the original farm cottages and is surrounded by fields and countryside worked by the farm, so there will likely be some cows, sheep or horses coming to the fences to say hello when you’re out exploring.
The cottage accommodation is surprising in the generous size of the rooms. Downstairs the living room is ideal for relaxing in front of a movie on the TV and enjoying the cosiness of the wood burner. The kitchen is sure to be the hub of this ’home away from home’ given its size and how it’s equipped with an electric range cooker, guests will no doubt be creating meals of ’Masterchef’ standard to be enjoyed in the dining area, whatever the occasion. A shower room is downstairs completing the ground floor. Upstairs there are three bedrooms as mentioned and a four-piece bathroom with bath and shower. The house has gas heating to provide a heat boost when the fire isn’t on, although guests will find this a cosy house all year round.
Outside the generous back garden is fully enclosed and ideal for kids and dogs to run around enjoying and tiring themselves out.
The nearby village of Greenlaw is a short 2 mile drive away and boasts a pharmacy, butchers, pub and shop. The other surrounding villages, towns and attractions throughout the Borders provide something for literally every taste. Whether you want a light challenge of a hill walk or just to sit and enjoy the sleepy vibe of this fabulous part of Scotland. Venture a little further to Edinburgh (an hour by car) or head west towards Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, even south to the glorious beaches of Northumberland. All are more than doable for day trips by car.£95From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & book
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Dornoch, ScotlandWallace House is an imposing, historic, detached stone house, situated in the heart of the renowned village of Dornoch. Built in 1800, on land owned by the Duke of Sutherland, this bright and spacious home was completely renovated in 2018 and is ideally located for a family beach holiday. The main living room has been thoughtfully furnished with superb sofas and a warm, welcoming wood burner. The high ceilings and stunning exposed stone fireplace add to the character and charm. There is a large kitchen/dining room, which is well-equipped with built-in units and a wine fridge. The original staircase, with ornate polished wood banisters, leads up to the three generously proportioned bedrooms. All rooms are superbly presented, with good quality furniture and colour coordinated soft furnishings. Wallace House is ideal for families and groups looking for a very good standard of self-catering accommodation with all amenities just a short walk away.
This wonderful property is situated along a quiet lane, just off the main square in the centre of the historic village of Dornoch, a Royal Burgh since 1628. This attractive village, built of mellow sandstone, is one of the prettiest in the Highlands. The centrepiece is the 13th-century cathedral, with original stained glass windows. Dornoch also has an excellent selection of unusual and attractive shops, as well as a number of good restaurants and bars, all just a few steps away. The renowned Championship golf course of Royal Dornoch is just 200 yards along the lane. The nearby sandy beach is ideal for families and dog walkers alike. Situated just off the renowned North Coast 500 route, which encompasses some of the most outstanding landscapes to be found anywhere in the British Isles, there are numerous places of interest within easy reach. Loch Fleet Nature Reserve is close by and attracts a wide variety of wading birds and has been designated as an Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Just a short drive away is Dunrobin Castle, seat of the Dukes of Sutherland for over 600 years. Visitors are welcome to explore the castle and grounds, which were modelled on the Palace of Versailles. Golfers are spoilt for choice, with not only Royal Dornoch on the doorstep, but a number of other championship courses within a short drive, and the property has a stone built store, perfect for golf clubs, and with power for charging trolleys. Fishing, sailing, kayaking, hill walking, climbing and mountain biking are all local pastimes. Beach 300 yards. Shop 200 yards, pub and restaurant 50 yards.£141From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Stirling, ScotlandExplore Dunblane on foot along the River Allan. The high street has plenty of coffee shops, restaurants including a great Indian restaurant, bars and quirky local shops. The ancient cathedral and museum offer insight into the history of Dunblane. There is a local Tennis Club where Sir Andy Murray started his playing with his brother and a local golf course, and there are numerous golf courses in the area including the Gleneagles championship courses, which is only a 20 minutes drive.
An ideal location for exploring further afield the railway station has regular service into the cities of Stirling, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Perth. Stirling is well worth a visit, steeped in history the city is home to some of Scotland’s best attractions including Stirling Castle, The National Wallace Monument, Bannochburn, Church of the Holy Rude and Cambuskenneth Abbey. A great selection of restaurants to suit all tastes, swimming pools and sport centres, multiplex cinema, theatre, museum, pubs and shops. Stirling University is less than 15 minutes drive, and this is a good base to visit a friend or family who may be attending one of the graduation ceremonies.
Just on the edge of the scenic Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, there are lots of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities, visit the tourist town of Callander and the pretty village, enjoy loch cruises or wild swimming in one of the lochs.£93From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Tain, ScotlandTucked away on a quiet farm lane, The Paddock is a traditional terraced, single storey stone farm cottage located on a working, farm 1 mile from the charming seaside village of Portmahomack. The pretty cottage garden overlooks the owner’s farmland, with distant sea views. The cottage looks south over the Moray Firth and Moray Coast with views of Cairngorms and Ben Rhinnes. The accommodation is beautifully presented, with a large living room with lovely views across the open fields. The bright, kitchen/dining room is fully fitted and very well-equipped. There are three generously proportioned bedrooms, all thoughtfully decorated with colour co-ordinated soft furnishings. Exposed stone walls and large canvases of the surrounding area add to the cottage’s charm and ambience.
Portmahomack is a thriving seaside village with a fishing harbour and pier, as well as a superb sweeping sandy beach; the mountains beyond act as a stunning backdrop. Portmahomack is the only village on the east coast of Scotland that faces due west and has spectacular sunsets. The village has a renowned seafood restaurant as well as a café, local store and a lovely traditional links golf course, Tarbat Golf Club, which is open to visitors. The area is renowned for its archaeological sites and at the nearby Tarbat Discovery Centre is a local heritage centre and museum, with a fascinating display of Pict, Norse and medieval artefacts, as well as a gift shop. Within 15-20 minutes’ drive lies the Royal Burgh of Tain, established as a Royal Burgh in 1066, and the Tain Museum houses the famous original Tain Silver Collection. Predominantly built in local mellow sandstone, Tain is a charming historic town and offers an excellent selection of small shops, restaurants, cafés and pubs as well as a wide variety of sporting and recreational facilities, including Tain Golf Course which looks across the Dornoch Firth to Dornoch. Just outside Tain you will find the renowned Famous Glenmorangie Distillery, where you can take a tour and sample some of the famous whisky. Beach 1 mile. Shop and restaurant 1 mile, pub 0.5 miles.
The Paddock can be booked together with Sheaf Dale (UK5740) and Grieve’s Cottage (UK12250) to accommodate up to 15 guests.£62From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Strathcarron, ScotlandThis gorgeous cottage, within its own walled garden, enjoys a gloriously sunny position on the seashore with spectacular views from most rooms towards the islands of Raasay, Rona and Skye. Reached via a quarter-mile track, the house was originally converted in the 1980s, whilst retaining interesting original features and has been extended and renovated in 2022. Formerly classrooms, the part-panelled living room and well-equipped modern kitchen feature lovely high ceilings, and there is a large picture window in the sitting room, ideal for viewing wonderful sunsets and abundant wildlife.
Sandy beaches are to be found at Sand Beach (3 miles) and Applecross Bay (7 miles); the village of Applecross itself is home to a couple of great restaurants, including a multi-award winning restaurant serving fresh seafood dishes, as well as a Post Office/local store. The sheltered, fertile coast around the village is idyllic, you can wander along lanes banked with wild iris and orchids and explore beaches and rock pools on the shore.
Several National Trust for Scotland properties make for good days out, including Strome Castle, and the Countryside Centre at Torridon (open May to September), the latter providing an insight into local flora, fauna and geology. From Torridon village, a scenic drive takes in the shoreline before winding past cliffs and gorges up to Diabaig, whilst 8 miles to the north, Lake Maree is dotted with Caledonian pine clad islands and lies as a scenic gem. The surrounding area also offers some of Scotland’s best deer-sighting country. This property is in an excellent location for outdoor pursuits including hill-walking, climbing, kayaking, paddle boarding and cycling. Fishing and golf are also both within driving distance. Shop 9 miles. Beach 3 miles.£117From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Gairloch, ScotlandEscape to the serene beauty of Opinan, Gairloch and experience the ultimate retreat at Seashell Lodge. Nestled in nature, this cosy haven offers breathtaking sea views that will leave you mesmerized from the moment you arrive. Immerse yourself in the panoramic beauty of the Scottish coast. Its elevated position allows you to enjoy stunning vistas of the sea, creating a tranquil and picturesque backdrop. Bring your four-legged friends along for an unforgettable getaway ensuring your furry companions can enjoy the adventure. Seashell Lodge exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, combining rustic charm with modern comfort. Relax on the private deck area while taking in the fresh sea breeze. Each bedroom is thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortable and restful night’s sleep. Wake up to the soothing sounds of nature and the gentle lull of the waves. The lodge features a shower room for a refreshing and rejuvenating experience. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled vacation, this haven promises an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.
Take leisurely strolls through the quaint village of Opinan discovering its charm and friendly atmosphere. The lodge is conveniently located near a pristine beach, perfect for a day of beachcombing, building sandcastles or simply soaking up the sun. Gairloch is known for its rich wildlife. Embark on nature trails or boat trips to witness seals, dolphins and various bird species in their natural habitat. Indulge in the local culinary delights at nearby restaurants and cafes. Sample fresh seafood and traditional Scottish dishes. Explore nearby historical sites, including castles and museums, to delve into the rich history and culture of the Scottish Highlands. Seashell Lodge is the perfect base for your holiday exploring the Scottish Highlands, and it will not disappoint.£92From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Lyth, ScotlandThe Ivy Wing and The Cottage are situated in the courtyard of Barrock House, and surrounded by landscaped grounds and mature woodland. This provides shelter for an abundance of bird and wild life with pleasant walks close at hand and the scenic beaches of Sinclair and Dunnet Bay are just 5 minutes by car. The Cottage makes the perfect base for touring this unspoilt and tranquil part of the Highlands. Visit the Castle and Gardens of Mey, the Queen Mother’s Highland home, John O’Groats, Wick Heritage and Lyth Arts Centre, or take a wildlife or distillery tour. Golfing, fishing, sea trips or walking along the many miles of rugged coastline are just some of the many activities available. Lyth is situated just 10 miles north of Wick and 15 miles from Thurso, making the beautiful Orkney Isles easily accessible by car ferry for day trips. Both properties can be booked together for larger groups (ref’s W42082 and W42083). Shop, pub and restaurant 4.5 miles.£62From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Boat of Garten, ScotlandEnjoying a peaceful village setting only a few minutes’ walk from a gallery cafe, pub and restaurant, The Heathers has been equipped and furnished with ample storage throughout to ensure a relaxing and comfortable holiday. Boat of Garten, known as the Osprey Village, lies adjacent to the River Spey and is set in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is an outdoor enthusiasts’ paradise - amongst the many activities available are skiing in the Cairngorms or the Lecht, mountain biking, walking, fishing, climbing, zip lining and golf - to name but a few. Take a trip on the Strathspey Steam Railway (110 yards from the house) or the Cairngorm Mountain Funicular Railway to enjoy breathtaking scenery whilst getting some clean Scottish air! Close by is the RSPB reserve at Loch Garten and a renowned golf course, with pleasant woodland walks literally 55 yards from the doorstep. Top quality water sports on Loch Morlich and Loch Insh are also nearby. For the less energetic, just relax and unwind in this lovely area.£66From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Dunoon, ScotlandThis beautifully restored cottage originally the coach house has retained many features and is an ideal location from which to explore the surrounding area. Situated only yards from the shores of Loch Long the cottage boasts stunning view over the Loch. Located on the idyllic Rosneath Peninsula where the rugged Argyll mountains meet the sea, the property is only 20 minutes away from Scotland’s first National Park, Loch Lomond, with open spaces, sheltered bays and islands to explore. It’s inland waters are famous as one of the finest watersport venues in Scotland. The area is ideal for walkers and cyclists of all abilities and boasts a magnificent diversity of scenery with dramatic peaks, waterfalls, hidden caves and mysterious, forest-covered slopes. Ayrshire and Burns country lies to the south, and the Western Highlands are to the north. Glasgow, Edinburgh and Stirling are all easily within reach for a day out.£87From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Colintraive, ScotlandSurrounded by 150 acres of glorious wooded grounds, abundant in wildlife. Amidst a glorious landscape of unspoilt wooded glens, fragmented coastline, stunning sea lochs and breathtaking bays, the delightful cottages at Home Farm nestle in the peaceful wooded valley of the River Ruel. The steading and cottages, formerly the home farm to the estate, have been lovingly restored and are very comfortably furnished in contemporary Scottish style. Their spacious courtyard setting affords each of them a sense of privacy and they all boast access to 150 acres of wooded grounds, abundant in bird and wildlife, with free trout and salmon fishing on the Ruel beat owned by Home Farms - the fishing hut provides an ideal picnic spot. One of the most admired views in Scotland, The Kyles of Bute, awaits discovery just 6 miles away, as do the tranquil village of Tighnabruaich’s lovely natural bays, sandy beach, shops, restaurants and 9 hole golf course. Colintraive, 9 miles, offers a pub serving good food and there is a summer shop (limited opening hours) adjacent to Home Farm. Beach 5 miles. Shop 13 miles, pub and restaurant 7 miles.£136From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
