Going away for a week or even just a weekend is a lovely treat for all the family - and that includes your four-legged family members too! One of the great things about taking a holiday in the UK is that you can bring your dog along without the need for a pet passport or international travel arrangements.
Dorset is particularly well suited to dog-friendly holidays, with beautiful countryside, miles of coastline, welcoming towns and plenty of attractions where dogs can join you. Best of all, Dorset Hideaways has a wide selection of dog-friendly holiday cottages, giving you the perfect base for exploring the county together.
Whether your dog loves a long countryside walk, running along the beach or simply sitting beside you while you enjoy a coffee, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Dorset with your pooch.
Here is just a taster!
Blandford Forum is a charming Georgian market town and a lovely place to enjoy a relaxed day out with your dog. The town is well known for its attractive architecture, independent shops and welcoming cafés, pubs and restaurants.
You can combine a wander around the town with a countryside walk nearby, making Blandford a useful stop if you're exploring the wider Dorset countryside.
If you're planning a leisurely day rather than a long hike, Blandford Forum is a good option for enjoying some local history and atmosphere before stopping somewhere dog-friendly for lunch.
For something a little different, head to Portland and discover the fascinating history of the island at Portland Museum.
The museum explores Portland's geology, archaeology and maritime history, with exhibits covering everything from fossils and shipwrecks to the island's fascinating past. It's also close to some of Portland's spectacular coastal scenery, making it easy to combine a visit with a walk.
There is an important distinction for dog owners, however: only assistance dogs are permitted inside the museum, while well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome in the museum's garden.
This means Portland Museum can still form part of a dog-friendly day out, particularly if you combine it with exploring the surrounding coastline.
Upton Country Park is a fantastic choice if your dog enjoys having plenty of space to explore. Situated near Poole, the park offers woodland, open parkland, gardens and shoreline to discover.
The park has been enjoyed by dog walkers for many years, with designated areas helping visitors understand where dogs can be on or off the lead. Look out for the Paw Prints signs when you're exploring the park and follow the relevant guidance.
It's also a great option for families, as you can combine a dog walk with a picnic and a visit to the park's facilities.
For a sunny day, take some water for your dog and allow plenty of time to explore. Upton Country Park is a particularly good choice when you want a day out that is centred around walking rather than visiting a traditional attraction.
For dogs that love a good walk, Moors Valley Country Park & Forest is difficult to beat. The extensive park and forest provide plenty of opportunities to explore, with woodland paths and open spaces creating a varied day out.
Dogs are welcome at Moors Valley, although there are some important restrictions. In busy areas such as the car park, picnic areas, around Moors Lake and the Visitor Centre, dogs must be kept on leads. In other areas they may be off lead provided they remain under close control, in sight and on the footpath. Dogs must also be kept away from protected heathland and wooded heath because of nesting wildlife.
The Visitor Centre and café also welcome dogs on leads, with a designated dog-friendly seating area and water bowls available.
It's therefore a great option for combining a proper walk with somewhere to stop for refreshments.
If you're looking for a dog-friendly attraction that is a little different, The Dinosaur Museum in Dorchester is well worth considering.
The museum explores the prehistoric history of the Jurassic Coast and features dinosaur skeletons, fossils, reconstructions and hands-on displays. It's an especially good choice for families, giving children the opportunity to learn more about the creatures that once lived in this part of the world.
The museum is among the county's dog-friendly attractions, making it possible to combine an educational day out with your holiday with the dog.
Once you've explored the museum, you can continue your day by discovering more of Dorchester or heading into the surrounding countryside for a walk.
6. Enjoy a dog-friendly beach day
No trip to Dorset with a dog would be complete without spending some time on the coast. The county has a fantastic selection of beaches where dogs are welcome, although restrictions vary considerably depending on the beach and time of year.
For an all-year option, Durdle Door and Man O' War Beach, Eype Beach, Kimmeridge Bay, Ringstead Beach and Bowleaze Cove are among the beaches that welcome dogs throughout the year.
There are also seasonal options. Dogs are welcome on parts of West Bay outside the summer restrictions, while Studland Bay has specific requirements during the busier summer months.
A beach day can be a brilliant way for your dog to let off some energy, but please do always check the latest local restrictions before setting off. Keep your dog under control around wildlife and cliff edges, and remember to take water and dog waste bags with you.
Enjoy a dog-friendly Dorset holiday
From countryside walks and country parks to museums, historic towns and beautiful beaches, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Dorset with your dog.
The best part is that you don't have to leave your four-legged friend behind when you head away. With a dog-friendly Dorset holiday cottage as your base, you can explore more of the county together and enjoy everything from coastal adventures to relaxing days in the countryside.
FAQS
What are the best dog-friendly days out in Dorset?
Dorset has plenty of options for days out with dogs, including country parks, coastal walks, beaches, historic towns and selected attractions. Moors Valley Country Park, Upton Country Park and the Jurassic Coast are popular choices, although individual dog restrictions can vary.
Where can I take my dog in Dorset?
You can take your dog to many of Dorset's beaches, countryside walking routes, country parks, towns and dog-friendly attractions. Always check the latest restrictions before visiting, particularly at beaches and indoor attractions.
Are there dog-friendly beaches in Dorset?
Yes. Dorset has a number of beaches where dogs are welcome, including some beaches that allow dogs throughout the year. Other beaches have seasonal restrictions, so check the current rules before your visit.
Can I take my dog to the Jurassic Coast?
Yes, there are many opportunities to explore the Jurassic Coast with your dog. Coastal walks and some beaches are dog friendly, but restrictions can vary between locations and during different times of the year.
What are the best dog-friendly walks in Dorset?
Dorset has a huge choice of dog-friendly walks, from woodland and countryside trails to coastal routes along the Jurassic Coast. Moors Valley Country Park and Dorset's coastal paths are popular options for exploring with a dog.
Is Moors Valley Country Park dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome at Moors Valley Country Park & Forest, although there are areas where dogs must be kept on leads and restrictions designed to protect wildlife. Owners should follow the signs and current park guidance.
Is Upton Country Park dog friendly?
Yes, Upton Country Park welcomes dogs and has a variety of areas to explore. Dog owners should follow the park's signage and keep dogs on leads where required.
Can I take my dog to Portland Museum?
Dogs are not permitted inside Portland Museum unless they are assistance dogs. However, well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome in the museum garden, making it possible to include the museum as part of a wider dog-friendly day out in Portland.
Is The Dinosaur Museum in Dorchester dog friendly?
The Dinosaur Museum is a dog-friendly attraction and can be a useful option when looking for things to do with your dog in Dorset. Check the attraction's current guidance before travelling, as individual rules can change.
What can I do in Dorset with my dog when it rains?
Wet-weather options with dogs can be more limited because many indoor attractions don't allow pets. Consider dog-friendly cafés, pubs and sheltered walks, and check individual attractions before visiting to see whether dogs are permitted.
Are dogs allowed in Dorset country parks?
Many Dorset country parks welcome dogs, but individual rules vary. Dogs may need to be kept on leads in certain areas, particularly around visitor centres, livestock, wildlife habitats and busy public spaces.
Can I take my dog on holiday to Dorset?
Yes. Dorset is a popular destination for dog-friendly holidays, with many holiday cottages welcoming dogs. Choosing accommodation with a secure garden or easy access to walks can make travelling with your dog easier.
Are there dog-friendly cottages in Dorset?
Yes, Dorset Hideaways offers a selection of holiday cottages that welcome dogs. Properties range from smaller cottages suitable for couples and families to larger houses for groups travelling with several dogs.
What should I take on a dog-friendly day out in Dorset?
It's a good idea to take fresh water, a portable bowl, dog waste bags, a lead and any food or medication your dog needs. For coastal walks, consider taking a towel and checking the weather and tide conditions before you leave.
Are dogs allowed on Dorset beaches all year round?
Some Dorset beaches allow dogs throughout the year, while others have seasonal restrictions or designated areas where dogs are permitted. Always check the current rules for the specific beach before visiting.
What are the best places to visit in Dorset with a dog?
Some popular options include Moors Valley Country Park, Upton Country Park, Dorset's coastal paths, dog-friendly beaches and towns such as Blandford Forum. The best choice depends on whether your dog enjoys walking, beaches, exploring towns or visiting attractions.
Is Dorset a good holiday destination for dogs?
Dorset offers a combination of beaches, countryside, walking routes and dog-friendly accommodation, making it well suited to holidays with dogs. However, owners should always check individual attraction and beach restrictions before travelling.