Letting the Dogs Run Free at Gunwalloe, Cornwall

Cornwall Council has shortened the seasonal dog bans on many local beaches, which now generally only apply during July and August, instead of the previous six-month window. Before heading out, be sure to consult the council's list of beach regulations—there are still 11 locations where dogs aren’t allowed from 10am to 6pm, and three nature reserves where dogs are not permitted at all. One standout spot is Gunwalloe, where you can stay at a National Trust cottage right by the waves, and the nearby café provides dog water bowls. Church Cove enforces a summer dog restriction, but neighboring Dollar Cove welcomes furry companions year-round. The coast path offers scenic walks toward Porthleven or Poldhu, providing plenty of space for tails to wag. —Layla Astley

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Pet-Friendly Comfort in the Lake District

Inn on the Square in Keswick, a stylish four-star hotel (double rooms from £100 including breakfast), offers fantastic amenities for dogs. It features a dog spa—ideal after a hike in the fells—as well as comfy beds and guides to pet-relief areas. Keswick itself is a delight, with cozy pubs dotting the shores of Derwentwater. Pets cost an extra £25 per night, and guests can travel with up to two dogs per room. —Dee

A Regal Retreat for Dogs in South Ayrshire

North Firbank Cottage (weekly from £700, sleeps four), positioned on the Culzean Castle and Country Park Estate, has secure fenced gardens just for your canine companions. Owned by the National Trust for Scotland, the cottage sits at the end of a quiet access road serving a small cluster of rentals. A brief walk leads you either to the estate’s public areas like a lake and café, or down to Maidens beach—open to dogs all year—with breathtaking views of Ailsa Craig and Arran. Guests also enjoy access to miles of footpaths and free castle entry (note: dogs aren’t allowed inside the building). —David Gilmore

Canine Paradise on the Isle of Man

The Isle of Man offers abundant off-lead adventures along sandy northern shores. Eighteen preserved glens span the island, with walkways, bubbling streams, and often a beach just around the corner. Head to Gansey Bay at the southern tip, where dogs are welcome throughout the year, then relax at the Shore Hotel—complete with dog-friendly seating and seaside views. —Sue

Norfolk’s Doggy Dream Cottages

East Ruston Cottages on Norfolk’s coast go above and beyond for four-legged guests. All properties accommodate at least three dogs and come equipped with thoughtful extras—from dog wash stations to toys, towels, snacks, and even birthday cards. When we visited earlier this year, it felt like a holiday made for us and our border collie. The service even includes dog-sitting by arrangement. —Margaret Dennis

Windy Walks and Coastal Views on Anglesey

Ynys Môn (Anglesey) offers a peaceful, seaside atmosphere where waves out-sing cars. We rented a cottage overlooking Red Wharf Bay and spent each low tide strolling to Traeth Lligwy. With no dog restrictions, pups roam happily. Afterward, we dined alfresco at the Ship Inn, where dogs are greeted with water bowls before menus arrive. For wet days, there's Oriel Môn museum’s pet-friendly café or the squirrel-filled Newborough Forest. Each evening ended with our spaniel snoozing by the log fire. —Pamela

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Off-Grid with Dogs in Pembrokeshire

At The Little Retreat in Lawrenny, Pembrokeshire, guests can unwind at luxury domes (sleeping four, from £120 per night) situated in a walled garden on a historic castle estate. Dogs are welcome across the property, which overlooks the Daugleddau estuary—ideal for kayaking and nature swims. Take scenic walks to hidden shorelines or explore dog-accessible (on-lead) Carew Castle. This tranquil escape brims with natural beauty and historic charm. —Rosa

Happy Trails in the Cotswolds

Our trip to the De Vere Cotswolds Water Park was a hit with our dog. Our room opened to wetlands framed by pathways and boardwalks for relaxed strolls. Standard dog-friendly amenities are provided, and dogs are welcome at breakfast and around the spa. The nearby market town of Cirencester is another dog-friendly delight, but the star attraction was the Cotswold Wildlife Park, where leashed dogs can enjoy the animals and gardens. —Jenni

Beachside Bliss in County Donegal

Each summer of our youth was spent at Rita’s chalets in Portsalon, County Donegal. Although rustic—no shower, TV, or heating—they welcomed our loyal dog, Sandy. Today, the now-modern Pier Apartments (from €310 for a two-night stay, sleeping five) retain that warm spirit. Kids still leap off the harbor pier, the view remains unmatched, and Ballymastocker Beach continues to be our dog’s favorite sandy playground. Now, Sandy's place has been taken by Benji. —Keiran

Top Pick: Mull – A Paradise for Pups

The Isle of Mull tops the list for dog-friendly islands. Our Labrador, George, was welcomed aboard the ferry from Oban, which had special seating and treats just for dogs. Breathtaking beaches abound, and dogs are free to explore off-lead. One highlight was taking the foot ferry to The Boathouse restaurant on Ulva, where George met Grampa, the famous dog of interior designer Banjo Beale. —Hywel Sedgwick