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16 Dog-Friendly Pubs in Dorset

Posted on 27th September 2024 by Melissa Hawkins
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Dorset is a wonderful holiday destination if you have a dog. With so much for them to do, from playing on the sandy beaches to exploring the rolling countryside, there’s no reason to leave your canine companion at home. Dorset has some of the best pubs in the country too, and since many of them are pet-friendly, your dog will be more than welcome to join you. There’s nothing better than heading to a warm and cosy pub after you’ve finished a long walk with your four-legged friend. You can bring your dog along when it’s time to join some world-class food, drink and entertainment. Keep reading to find out more about the best pet-friendly pubs in Dorset.

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dog-friendly pubs in Dorset

Dorset has a rich tradition of eating and drinking. Therefore, you won’t be surprised to hear that the region has an impressive selection of pubs for you to discover. Dorset is bursting with traditional inns and family-friendly taverns where you can sample the best of the region’s produce. Many of these pubs are dog-friendly, which means they allow dogs to enter their premises. Some people think that in the UK, dogs aren’t legally allowed in places where food is served. However, this incorrect, and it’s completely up to the owners to decide whether to let them in.

The good news for people with pets is that many pub owners in Dorset are happy to let animals into their establishments. Whilst there are several pubs that declare themselves as pet-friendly, the best are those that take steps to make their canine patrons as welcome as possible. As well as making it clear that dogs are allowed by putting up clear signage, they also make sure water bowls are available to provide dogs with a drink of clean water. The very best dog-friendly places to eat and drink and Dorset go one step further, offering treats behind the bar or providing a quiet area for your dog away from the main noise of the pub. There are hundreds of dog-friendly places to eat and drink in Dorset. Read on to find out which ones to visit.

Dog-friendly pubs in West Dorset

1

The Royal Standard in Lyme Regis

A traditional pub with good, homecooked food, the Royal Standard is a popular destination for holidaymakers in Dorset. This 400-year-old pub is located on the world-famous Jurassic coast, in Lyme Regis in West Dorset. The Royal Standard is dog-friendly, making it a great place to grab a delicious lunch after your pooch has tired themselves out on the sandy beach nearby. Dogs are allowed inside if they’re on a lead, and they can also access the large beer garden which leads onto the beach.

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The Acorn Inn in Evershot

The Acorn Inn is situated in the heart of the Dorset countryside in the quaint village of Evershot. An award-winning 16th-century pub, it was featured in ‘Tess of the D’Urbervilles’ by Thomas Hardy. With an open fireplace and dog biscuits behind the bar, this historic coaching inn is the perfect pub in which to relax with your pooch after a long walk. Your furry companion will be more than welcome here.

3

The Cobb Arms in Lyme Regis

Another of the best dog-friendly places to eat and drink in Dorset is the Cobb Arms in Lyme Regis. Overlooking the town’s historic Cobb, this traditional pub provides a warm welcome to dogs of all sizes. Why not head to this cosy pitstop after a bracing coastal walk with your pooch? Enjoy a pint of Palmers fine ale as you watch the world go by with your furry friend at your side.

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The Royal Oak in Melbourne

This family-run, family-friendly village pub is situated in Milborne in the heart of Dorset. The Royal Oak is particularly popular with dog walkers, with pooches of all sizes welcome here. This pub has a relaxed vibe, making it ideal for kids who can enjoy having fun out the outdoor play equipment and eating from the kid’s menu.

5

The Blue Vinny in Puddletown

Situated in the Piddle Valley, bordered by rolling hills and pretty woodland lies Puddletown, one of Dorset’s most beautiful villages. Here you’ll find the Blue Vinny, a traditional pub offering a warm and friendly welcome and a varied selection of real ales, wines, and spirits, as well as an impressive food menu showing the best local produce. The Blue Vinny is very dog-friendly and you can expect your furry friend to be made a fuss of on your arrival!

Dog-Friendly Pubs in Christchurch

6

Ye Olde George Inn

Ye Olde George Inn is a 15th-century coaching inn located in some of the region’s most beautiful countryside. Small and cosy, the pub is the ideal place to stop off for a pint after a delightful stroll along the South Downs Way with your furry companion. Relax by the fireplace with your dog or make the most of the weather by heading out to the patio area. Your dog can enjoy a well-earned nap whilst you enjoy the sunshine.

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The Fisherman's Haunt

The Fisherman’s Haunt is a popular choice for pet-friendly holidays in Dorset. Situated on Salisbury Road in the quayside town of Christchurch, this pub and hotel offers fantastic views across the Avon Meadow and is also close to the south coast seaside. Accommodation is comfortable and well-furnished, with dogs of any size welcome for a small fee.  Fresh water and doggy treats are always available behind the bar.

Dog-Friendly Pubs in WEYMOUTH AND PORTLAND

8

The Black Dog in Weymouth

Dating back to the 1500s, the Black Dog Pub is one of the oldest pubs in the town of Weymouth. Situated on St Mary Street, it’s just a stone’s throw away from the main beach. This makes it the perfect pub in which to relax with your dog after a long walk on the golden sands. Enjoy locally sourced food and real ale from local brewers – the perfect treat before you retire to your cosy Weymouth holiday cottage for the night. There are also water bowls outside and treats behind the bar for hungry dogs.

9

The Smugglers Inn in Osmington Mills

Located on the cliff tops outside of the village of Osmington, The Smugglers Inn is a traditional pub with bags of character. The pub offers stunning views of the Isle of Portland, and back in the 17th century was actually one of the key landing places for smuggled goods by Pierre Latour. This quaint and cosy pub is very dog-friendly, with roaring log fires for them to warm up next to in the winter and a pretty garden for those hot summer days.

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The Ship Inn in Weymouth

The Ship Inn is Weymouth’s largest (and arguably best) dog-friendly pub. The whole of the ground floor is dedicated to dogs and their owners, showing just how valued they are at this pub. Doggie ice cream is available as well as bowls of fresh water. Humans are just as well catered for thanks to an impressive menu that combines classic dishes with more contemporary flavours. Vegan and gluten-free options are available too.

Dog-friendly pubs in Purbeck

11

The Black Swan Inn in Swanage

If it’s a good old-fashioned pub you’re seeking, look no further than the Black Swan Inn in the pretty coastal town of Swanage. The pub has two bars serving a carefully selected range of ales, wines, and spirits as well as delicious food. Fill your tummies with a hearty meal before heading out for a walk on the beach or to explore the stunning Purbeck countryside. That’s if you and your pooch can bear to tear yourselves away from the cosy log fires or pretty secluded gardens of course!

12

The Castle Inn in Lulworth

The Castle Inn is a traditional Dorset pub with a history dating all the way back to the 16th Century. The pub is located near Lulworth Cove – a pretty pebble beach which is welcome to dogs all year round. You can expect a steep walk up to the pub, however, it’s well worth it! Under its pub’s thatched roof is a charming bar serving up an impressive selection of local food and drink. The large paved courtyard and serene garden is ideal for dogs to relax and unwind after their walk.

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The Greyhound Inn in Corfe Castle

Nestled beneath the ruins of the historic Corfe Castle, the Greyhound Inn is one of the best pet-friendly places to eat and drink in Dorset. Welcoming dogs of all sizes, the pub is a great place to eat, drink, and be merry after exploring the village or the beautiful Purbeck countryside surrounding it. The Greyhound Inn serves up a great selection of food and drinks to suit all tastes, from pizzas and sharing platters to cask ales and cocktails.

Dog-Friendly Pubs in East Dorset

14

The Inn in Cranborne

The Inn at Cranborne is a stylish yet cosy country inn situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Built back in the 16th century, the pub is found at the heart of the lovely village of Cranborne in East Dorset. Unlike many other pubs, the Inn at Cranborne welcomes dogs throughout the pub. This means you can relax in the knowledge that you’re not restricted to where you can go. There’s always fresh water available and biscuits behind the bar too, providing your dog with welcome sustenance after burning off all those calories on their walk. As if that wasn’t enough, the Inn also has four dog-friendly rooms, with canine guests receiving a treat bag and even a tasty sausage for breakfast in the morning!

15

The Angel in Longham

The Angel is situated on the edge of the stunning countryside just outside Bournemouth and nearby to the pretty market town of Wimborne. A traditional country pub, it has been at the heart of the local community since the 1700s when it can run by monks and nuns for tired travellers. Roaring log fires and a beautiful garden make it the ideal place to stop off after a long walk with your dog. Doggy ice cream is available for your furry friend too! Be careful though, there are strong rumours that this particular pub is haunted!

16

The Stocks Inn in Wimborne

The Stocks Inn is a family-run pub located in Wimborne in East Dorset. Set in a lovely rural location, there’s an abundance of dog walking opportunities nearby. Plus, with a dog-friendly area of the pub for dining, you can rest assured that your pooch will be more than welcome here. Your dog can relax and enjoy all the attention whilst you tuck into a hearty meal cooked with only the freshest ingredients sourced from local farmers.

dog in Dorset pub looking over table
The joy of

Dog-friendly pubs

There are a surprising number of pet-friendly pubs in Dorset, with more landlords choosing to welcome dogs into their establishments. Heading to a dog-friendly pub means you don’t need to leave your pooch in your dog-friendly cottage in Dorset, or even worse – miss out on going altogether. You can take your dog along with you to enjoy some of Dorset’s famous food, drink, and warm hospitality. There’s a fantastic selection of pubs across the region which welcome man’s best friend and provide them with a happy and safe environment to hang out in. Thanks to Dorset’s dog-friendly pubs, you can really make the most out of your holiday with your canine companion.

Once you’ve explored Dorset’s stunning countryside and splashed about in the sea with your four-legged friend, your appetite will be begging you to head to a local pub. Fortunately, with so many dog-friendly places to eat and drink across the region, you’ll be well catered for. Whether you’re seeking a quiet pint with your dog by your side or you want to take the whole family out for dinner, you won’t have to look too hard for the perfect pub. These dog-friendly pubs in Dorset are ideal for both dogs and their owners!

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Dog-friendly cottages in Dorset

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Cheesemans Cottage
Muckleford, Dorchester
4.6/5
This traditional home embodies all the distinct qualities of a quintessential English country retreat in Dorset. This ‘chocolate box’ thatched cottage, located on a quiet country lane is surrounded by a beautiful garden.
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Markham House
Weymouth
0/5
A spacious family home with off road parking and large, enclosed garden. The house is ideal for family and friends who want to stroll through the town to the Harbour and beach.
5
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Holiday prices from  £405
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White Sands
Swanage
4.9/5
4 Bedrooms. This stunning property is set on the cliff top in a secluded part of Swanage, boasting panoramic sea views over the bay toward Peveril Point, the Isle of Wight and Ballard Down. Situated just outside of the town centre and well away from any main road, it is beautifully quiet, ideal for those of you wishing to escape it all.
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Bronte Cottage
Wareham
4.8/5
3 Bedrooms. Bronte Cottage is a charming holiday cottage in Wareham, hidden away in a fabulous location a few strides from Wareham Quay and the river Frome.
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Holiday prices from  £449
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Wye Knot
Swanage
4.8/5
A delightful ground floor apartment with private garden is perfectly placed for a family's getaway, within easy access to Swanage beach and town attractions.
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Holiday prices from  £458
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Castle View House
Corfe Castle
5/5
Escape the ordinary at Castle View House, a haven in the countryside that accommodates up to nine guests. With its enchanting views of Corfe Castle, stylish open-plan interiors, and dog-friendly atmosphere, this residence promises a unique and memorable retreat. Nestled in the heart of Corfe Castle village, it provides an ideal setting for switching off from the demands of everyday life and savoring every moment with friends and family. Whether you're captivated by the historic charm of the surroundings or indulging in the comfort of the stylish interiors, Castle View House invites you to create lasting memories in a tranquil and welcoming escape.
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Holiday prices from  £1,630
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Forest Edge
Sandford
4.8/5
Forest Edge is a two bedroom semi-detached chalet bungalow offering luxury accommodation near Wareham. Mainly laid out on the ground floor, this delightful holiday home has been completely refurbished to a very high standard.
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Holiday prices from  £364
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Tilshead
Langton Matravers
4.8/5
4 Bedroom, 3 bathrooms. Stunning countryside views with sea glimpses. Tilshead is a beautifully designed home nestled within the lovely village of Langton Matravers. This exceptional, bespoke house was created to offer a practical yet luxurious, contemporary residence complete with large relaxing garden. Graded four star gold by Visit England, this luxury Dorset holiday cottage is ideal for large parties or families.
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Holiday prices from  £825
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Elizabeth Cottage
Lulworth Cove,
5/5
2 bed chocolate box thatched cottage. Ideal for a romantic break by the sea. Just a short walk to Lulworth Cove.
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Holiday prices from  £529
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Cherry Tree Cottage
Ridge, Nr Wareham
4.8/5
2 Bedroom delightful holiday cottage with log burner in Ridge. Well equipped with all you might need for a family get away in peaceful surroundings, yet still within easy reach of a wide range of attractions and sandy beaches.
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Holiday prices from  £462
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Pembroke Cottage
Langton Matravers
4.7/5
Beautiful 19th century stone cottage offering a peaceful retreat to families and friends. Well situated in the village of Langton Matravers, this holiday home offers endless attractions and picturesque views of the countryside.
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Holiday prices from  £626
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Canaan
Worth Matravers
4.9/5
4 bedrooms. A wonderful architecturally designed, large family holiday home in Worth Matravers. Completed to the highest standard and incorporating a sumptuous interior. It’s open plan design, galleried first floor landing and very large kitchen makes this the ideal choice for the extended family, walkers and those of you who wish to relax in this stylish property set in the heart of the English coastal countryside.
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Holiday prices from  £968
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Castle Heights
Corfe Castle
5/5
Escape the ordinary at Castle Heights, a haven in the countryside that accommodates up to nine guests. With its enchanting views of Corfe Castle, stylish open-plan interiors, and dog-friendly atmosphere, this residence promises a unique and memorable retreat. Nestled in the heart of Corfe Castle village, it provides an ideal setting for switching off from the demands of everyday life and savoring every moment with friends and family. Whether you're captivated by the historic charm of the surroundings or indulging in the comfort of the stylish interiors, Castle Heights invites you to create lasting memories in a tranquil and welcoming escape.
6
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Honeysuckle Cottage
Kingston, Nr Corfe Castle
4.8/5
This two-bedroom + annex Purbeck stone cottage is tucked away in the very quiet village of Kingston, near Corfe Castle. Escape the everyday, with luxury interiors and enhancing views! Pet-friendly.
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Holiday prices from  £843
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Hill View
Weymouth
5/5
Set in the peaceful Weymouth suburb of Preston, Hill View offers a delightful retreat for couples or small families.
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Holiday prices from  £320
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Lulwind
Lulworth Cove
4.8/5
3 bedrooms. Lulwind, a comfortable and pretty modern semi-detached thatched cottage, particularly suitable for families is set in the heart of this beautiful village, with views of the South West Coast path and only a two minute walk from Lulworth Cove. An excellent choice for a self catering cottage in Lulworth Cove.
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Holiday prices from  £638
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Winspit View
Worth Matravers
4.8/5
3 Bedrooms. The bungalow is located on the edge of the village of Worth Matravers, in a rural idyll with fantastic views across open farmland to Winspit and the sea. A lovely holiday cottage to rent in Worth Matravers, an exclusive village in Dorset.
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Holiday prices from  £682
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Stone Quay Cottage
Swanage
4.9/5
Stone Quay Cottage is right in the heart of the beautiful old fishing town of Swanage, just a stones throw away from the historic Stone Quay, the lovely sandy beaches, the Victorian Pier and all the amenities. This two bedroom cottage dates back to the 1850’s but has been completely renovated to provide a beautiful modern home.
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Holiday prices from  £545
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Cordwainer’s Cottage
Winfrith Newburgh
4.9/5
Built in the 17th century Cordwainer’s Cottage is a former shoemaker’s workshop that has been lovingly updated to provide a fantastic holiday home for up to 4 guests. Cordwainer’s cottage is set in a secluded village of Winfrith Newburgh. The cottage is ideal for a small family seeking a tranquil escape in Dorset.
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Holiday prices from  £768
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Church Cottage
Corfe Castle
4.7/5
Set in an idyllic location, this welcoming 18th century, Grade II listed character cottage stands in the heart of the picturesque village of Corfe Castle. Church Cottage boasts a beautiful garden and welcomes two dogs, making it an ideal base for a family get together.
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Holiday prices from  £475
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