Travel
8 of the best dog-friendly spa hotels in the UK
Dog-friendly spa hotels are the perfect way to get away from it all while spending some quality time with your pooch.
Whether you’re after long walks through the forests, fancy a dip in a spa or prefer the sea breeze blowing through your hair, there’s a whole range of hotels in the UK offering luxurious breaks alongside your four-legged friend.
We’ve put together a selection of some of the finest dog-friendly spa hotels in the UK.
Our pick of the best dog-friendly spa hotels in the UK
Ensana Buxton Crescent, Derbyshire
Located on the edge of the Peak District, the Ensana Buxton Crescent is a must-visit for spa seekers.
The hotel is steeped in history and was originally built for William Cavendish, the fifth Duke of Devonshire, in 1789. The Duke wanted to establish Buxton as a spa town, with the Crescent being central to the campaign. While the hotel fell into disrepair in the 1990s, an £80 million renovation has restored the Crescent back to its former glory, cementing its reputation as a hotspot for those seeking a dip in Buxton’s soothing thermal waters.
In terms of facilities, spa lovers won’t be disappointed. Take a dip in the heated indoor-outdoor pool, or relax in the spa’s range of saunas (including bio-thermal, infra-red and Finnish) and two steam rooms, or cool things off at the ice fountain.
Dogs are very much welcome here – just be sure to let the hotel know at time of booking. With stunning parks in Buxton, and the neighbouring Peak District to explore, there’s plenty for four-legged friends to enjoy.
Find out more about Ensana Buxton Crescent
Ellenborough Park, Cheltenham
The magnificent Ellenborough Park sits at the foot of Cleeve Hill, on the edge of Cheltenham and is surrounded by manicured lawns, ancient cedar trees and far-reaching views over meadows down to the racecourse.
Dogs are very much welcome here and exercising the pooch couldn’t be easier. Take a stroll down through the hotel grounds into open pasture – you can almost get to the racecourse. There’s also an invigorating climb up Cleeve Hill – the highest point of the entire Cotswold hills range – that lets you see all the way to Wales on a clear day.
After all that walking, you can leave your dog to snooze while you enjoy the hotel’s Moroccan-themed spa. A deep tissue massage will soothe any knots. Meanwhile, the heated outdoor pool offers a stunning view of the hotel appearing through the rising mist.
Find out more about Ellenborough Park
Chewton Glen Hotel and Spa, Hampshire
Set in 130 acres of countryside, this is one of those dog-friendly spa hotels that offers a luxurious stay too.
Chewton Glen Hotel and Spa sits on the edge of The New Forest, which boasts a staggering 900,000 acres of countryside. There’ll be opportunities galore for you and your pooch to get out in the fresh air. With the sea just a short stroll away, your dog can enjoy bounding through the waves.
After all that activity, your room will be a welcome sanctuary. Dogs are permitted to stay in the hotel’s gorgeous tree houses – secluded spots nestled within the canopy. These exclusive hideaways come with a terrace and a hot tub and are the perfect retreat for the whole family.
Find out more about Chewton Glen Hotel and Spa
Dormy House, Cotswolds
Dormy House is part of the Farncombe Estate, perched up on a ridge between Broadway and Chipping Campden in the Cotswolds. Located in stunning scenery, there’s a wealth of magnificent walks for you and the pooch to enjoy – both on the estate and beyond.
Dogs are treated to some home-away-from-home comforts in this dog-friendly spa hotel. They can expect a cushion to sleep on, dog bowls, treats and even a toy. If you stay in one of the courtyard suites, you can also enjoy a covered terrace by your own front door. It’s ideal for letting soggy dogs dry off after any wet walks.
For a bit of me-time, head to Dormy House’s spa facilities. Discover its indoor infinity pool, softly lit and surrounded by candles for an atmospheric calm. Alternatively, head outside to the sun terrace for the hydrotherapy hot tub. For even deeper relaxation, treat yourself to one of the many treatments on offer.
Find out more about Dormy House
Bailiff’s Court, West Sussex
Bailiff’s Court, based in West Sussex, is one of the UK’s dog-friendly holidays that’s located in 30 acres of private parkland, making it the perfect location for afternoon walks and playing fetch with your four-legged companion.
Dogs receive a warm welcome, just like a VIP (or should that be VID?). Opt for the hotel’s Sandy Paws package and your pooch will receive treats, food, a ball and ball thrower, plus a ‘Ruff & Tumble’ drying coat to take home with you.
Dogs are welcome everywhere apart from the spa or restaurant. You’re more than welcome to dine together in the hotel Courtyard or Rose Garden.
Find out more about Bailiff’s Court
The Hampshire Four Seasons
Home to resident black Labrador, Oliver Beckington, the Four Seasons in Hampshire offers an escape to the country for you and your pooch.
Located in 500 acres of picturesque countryside, this dog-friendly spa hotel offers plenty of opportunity to explore the great outdoors. Go for walks, have a go at clay-pigeon shooting and enjoy a canter on horseback – there’s something for everyone to try at the Four Seasons.
If relaxation is on the cards, enjoy time at the hotel’s spa, located in the hotel’s 18th Century Stable block. Dogs aren’t allowed here, but the hotel does offer dog-sitting services, should you need a little more me-time.
Find out more about the Four Seasons in Hampshire
Auchrannie, Isle of Arran
Retreat to the Isle of Arran and enjoy an indulgent stay at the Auchrannie Resort. Your pooch will be greeted with a treat on arrival to your room and will also be able to join you for dinner at various locations throughout the resort.
In terms of spending quality time together with your dog, a stay at Auchrannie couldn’t be more perfect as one of the UK’s nicest dog-friendly holidays. Explore the Isle of Arran together, walking the hills, exploring the beach or maybe even spotting some of the area’s local wildlife.
The spa at the resort is perfect for winding down, with a pool, steam room, sauna and fitness suite. There are an array of treatments on offer too, ranging from facials and massage, to reflexology and reiki.
Find out more about Auchrannie
The Lygon Arms, Cotswolds
The Lygon Arms offers historic and dog-friendly holidays and is located in the centre of the picturesque village of Broadway. Dating back to the 1300s, this hotel has seen a wealth of well-known visitors, including Oliver Cromwell, Charles I and more recently, Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor.
Dogs are welcome practically everywhere apart from the hotel’s main restaurant. This space is an impressive and grand 16th century room with a barrel-vaulted ceiling. There are plenty of other more casual dining spaces around if you’d like to keep your dog by your side.
On arrival in your room, your dog will be treated to a bed and some treats to set him up for plenty of exploring. Broadway village is home to a couple of pubs, some antique shops and an upmarket deli. There’s also a lovely walk from the high street. You’ll go through meadows and fields all the way to Broadway Tower, offering a gorgeous view over seven different counties.
Find out more about the Lygon Arms
