The Cotswolds is the perfect location for many reasons, and with an abundance of dog-friendly hotels in the region, you can take your pooch with you on a trip to the countryside.
This quaint region in the southwest of England is well known for its rolling hills, stunning countryside, historic towns, traditional culture, and endless nature to explore. It spreads out over five counties, after all.
This vast area is a haven for dogs, which is why many dog-friendly hotels exist in the Cotswolds; many of them have unique features, but all of them can ensure that you don’t have to leave your furry friend at home.
So, if you are keen to explore this desirable location with your canine companion, sit back and note these top 10 dog-friendly hotels in the Cotswolds.
The rundown – our top picks for the best dog-friendly hotels in the Cotswolds
- Best five-star hotel: Ellenborough Park
- Best heritage hotel: The Porch House
- Best hotel with a bar: The Feathers
- Best spa hotel: Cotswold House & Spa
- Best located hotel: Three Ways House
- Best charming hotel: The Greenway Hotel & Spa
- Best riverside hotel: Minster Mill
- Best golf hotel: Tewkesbury Park
- Best central hotel: Snooty Fox Hotel
- Best budget hotel: Pettifers Freehouse Hotel
Top 10 dog-friendly hotels in the Cotswolds − tips and advice
When to book: Booking as far in advance as you can get you the best deals but will also guarantee availability for the dates you want. Leaving it until the last minute is not advisable, as many of these top dog-friendly hotels in the Cotswolds get booked out quickly, so don’t miss your chance.
Booking.com: The best site for booking hotels and finding great deals
Where to stay in the Cotswolds – the best areas for you and your dog
The Cotswolds should certainly be on your UK bucket list. So check out the best places to stay in the area below.
Bourton-on-the-water: This beautiful village is famed for its rushing river, which passes through the town, and with many attractions to visit and lots of dog-friendly activities and walks, this is an ideal base for a trip to the Cotswolds.
Cheltenham: This is the largest town in the region, and it is ideal if you want to be close to the action, with lots of shopping, tourist information centres etc., perfect for first-timers.
Gloucester: Gloucester is the only city in the Cotswolds and is an excellent option for a city escape with plenty of historic attractions, all the while being close to nature for day trips.
Stroud: This is one of the most beautiful towns in the Cotswolds and is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway with your partner and your beloved pooch.
Broadway: Located in the north of the region, this picturesque village is known for its Victorian architecture. It is a lovely place for families and furry friends to base themselves on.
Bibury: Bibury is a picturesque village in the Cotswolds and is just a short drive from Cirencester and Burford. With its quaint cottages and the River Coln, it’s home to the iconic Arlington Row.
1. Ellenborough Park − pure luxury for the whole family
Overview: With 90 acres of land surrounding it, this stunningly restored manor house offers plenty to ensure you and your furry family have a delightful stay. Here you will experience five-star luxury and glorious countryside views, and it’s also just a stone’s throw from the Cheltenham racecourse.
The hotel is close to….Cheltenham Racecourse!
IN HIGH DEMAND: This is one of the most popular luxury hotels for dog owners to book in the Cotswolds, so don’t leave it until the last minute to book.
The hotel is perfect for…spoiling yourself and your canine companion!
Key features here include:
- An outdoor heated pool and impressive spa
- Ideally located beside Cheltenham racecourse with direct access and transfer options
- Award-winning gourmet restaurants
- 12 dog-friendly rooms and four pooch bedrooms
- A dedicated healthy doggie menu with special treats, dog bowls, doggie tapas and doggy beverages
Address: Southam Ln, Cheltenham GL52 3NJ, United Kingdom
2. The Porch House − one of the pet-friendly hotels listed in the Guinness Book of Records
Overview: This heritage hotel is both captivating from the outside and the inside, and since it is said to be England’s oldest Inn from 947 AD, it is not short of character and stories. Staying here with your furry friend is an excellent option for a unique experience in one of the country’s most important listed buildings.
The hotel is close to…Maugursbury!
IN HIGH DEMAND: This hotel is complete with characterful bedrooms and plenty of history, which makes it a sought-after hotel to book, so always plan, especially since only two dedicated rooms allow dogs.
The hotel is perfect for…a historic stay!
Key features here include:
- Guinness Record holder for the oldest Inn in England
- Pre-breakfast of tea/toast and newspaper is served in the room
- An award-winning restaurant and cosy authentic bars to enjoy
- Two comfortable dog-friendly rooms are available
- Water bowls and treats provided for dogs
Address: 1 Digbeth St, Stow-on-the-Wold, Cheltenham GL54 1BN, United Kingdom
3. The Feathers − for gin and good times
Overview: This charming hotel not only has an ideal location situated between many great attractions, but it holds a particular title, too, in its superb bar. Here you can sit back, relax, and recharge, and while sipping on a gin, you can plan the many activities available with your dog in the area.
The hotel is close to…Blenheim Palace!
The hotel is perfect for…a charming stay in Woodstock!
Key features here include:
- Dogs allowed in the bar, café, restaurant, 21 bedrooms
- Dog treats, bowls, dog beds and dog towels provided
- The bar holds the Guinness record for the most extensive selection of gin in the world
- Listed in the top 3 places in Oxfordshire for their afternoon tea
- Their suites are some of the largest in the Cotswolds region
Address: 16-20 Market St, Woodstock OX20 1SX, United Kingdom
4. Cotswold House & Spa − for a stress-free experience
Overview: This 28-bedroom townhouse is one of the best dog-friendly hotels in the Cotswolds, in the heart of the quaint countryside. Some garden cottages and suites have private hot tubs and gardens, while the award-winning spa is one huge selling point when staying at this charming hotel.
The hotel is close to…Chipping Camden!
The hotel is perfect for…a spa break!
Key features here include:
- Award-winning spa and restaurants
- Hot tub cottages available
- Stunning countryside views from all rooms
- Dogs are allowed in all areas, including the bistro, apart from the Fig restaurant
- Dog treats and a comfy dog bed provided
Address: Upper High Street The Square, Chipping Campden GL55 6AN, United Kingdom
5. Three Ways House Hotel − an ideal base for exploring
Overview: Located on the northern edge of the Cotswolds, this pet-friendly hotel is well suited to those who plan to see and do some sightseeing, including visiting Shakespeare’s birthplace, but there are many other reasons to choose this hotel. As well as being welcoming to dogs, they will ensure you both have an incredible trip together.
The hotel is close to…Stratford Upon Avon!
The hotel is perfect for…a discovery trip!
Key features here include:
- Home of the world-famous pudding club, with daily delicacies to try
- Dog box filled with essentials provided for each pet
- Dogs allowed in the bar area of Randalls Brasserie and The Terrace Lounge
- Ideally situated just 15 minutes from Shakespeare’s hometown
- AA Rosette awarded the restaurant for ten years of running
Address: Chapel Ln, Mickleton, Chipping Campden GL55 6SB, United Kingdom
6. The Greenway Hotel & Spa − a mix of city and countryside
Overview: Located on the outskirts of Cheltenham, renowned for its racecourse and being the largest town in the Cotswolds, this is an ideal area for the perfect mix of a nature retreat whilst being close to Gloucester city and many attractions. There are many reasons to love The Greenway, and we have plenty.
The hotel is close to…Cheltenham, Gloucester!
The hotel is perfect for…a charming countryside retreat!
Key features here include:
- A 16th-century Elizabethan manor house
- Original wooden furniture and furnishings
- The Elan Spa for luxury treatments
- 3AA Rosette fine dining makes for exceptional quality food and service
- 8 acres of private ground to explore with your dog
Address: Shurdington Rd, Shurdington, Cheltenham GL51 4UG, United Kingdom
7. Minster Mill − a luxurious hotel in an idyllic village
Overview: Nestled almost halfway between Oxford and Blenheim Palace, Minster Mill is an idyllic riverside hotel housed within traditional Cotswold stone buildings. Featuring 65 acres of glorious private gardens to enjoy, as well as spa facilities and fantastic cuisine, there is no reason not to choose to stay here.
The hotel is close to…Oxford, Blenheim Palace!
The hotel is perfect for…a luxurious riverside retreat!
Key features here include:
- Charming accommodation for you and your canine companion
- The Mill Bar serves classy cocktails, fine wines and more
- The Garden Spa for rejuvenating treatments
- Heated plunge pools, a rock sauna and a steam room
- Dog-friendly garden rooms with a dog bed, treats and bowl
Address: Minster Riding, Minster Lovell, Witney OX29 0RN, United Kingdom
8. Tewkesbury Park − where you and your pet are treated like royalty
Overview: This family-run golf resort is located within 176 acres of parkland, with stunning views of the British countryside from all angles. From here, you will see Severn Valley, the Welsh Mountains as well as Malvern Hills, and your furry friend will love it here.
The hotel is close to…Tewkesbury!
HIGH DEMAND: This is one of the best dog-friendly golf hotels and resorts, offering luxury for you and your pet, so it is in high demand. Book in advance to guarantee your dates at this beautiful hotel.
The hotel is perfect for…a luxurious golfing holiday with pets!
Key features here include:
- 18-hole Par 72 golf course on site
- An outdoor barrel sauna, hot tub, steam room etc.
- Comfortable Hypnos beds in each room
- Luxurious dog beds and posh food/water bowls provided
- A dedicated ‘Bow Wow Breakaway’ package
Address: Park, Lincoln Green Ln, Tewkesbury GL20 7DN, United Kingdom
9. Snooty Fox Hotel − home to their resident Great Dane
Overview: This quintessential English Inn is located right in the heart of Tetbury, one of the most iconic and traditional Cotswold villages. Here, you get to discover some great hidden gems of the UK. There are plenty of well-known attractions you can easily visit from here. As well as being dog friendly for visitors, they have their resident dog, Fred – a welcoming Great Dane.
The hotel is close to….The Cloister Gardens!
The hotel is perfect for…a traditional village stay!
Key features here include:
- Fantastic British fare and excellent wines
- Dogs are allowed in all outdoor areas and the bar
- Dog treats, bowls and food are available
- Dogs are allowed in all rooms at the Inn
- Full English breakfast is served each morning
Address: Market Pl, Tetbury GL8 8DD, United Kingdom
10. Pettifers Freehouse Hotel − a perfect base to explore the Cotswolds
Overview: This charming family-run three-star hotel is not just budget-friendly, but it is a place that welcomes dogs, has a delightful countryside location and has an award-winning bistro with an ever-changing menu to indulge in. You and your dog will feel the comfort of this home away from home.
The hotel is close to…Bath!
The hotel is perfect for…an affordable, cosy getaway!
Key features here include:
- A beautiful walled beer garden
- Serving only the best quality local fare
- Close to Cirencester and Malmesbury Abbey Gardens
- Designated dog-friendly spaces in the bar, lounge, and sung
- Ideally located near the iconic Cotswolds towns
Address: Crudwell, Malmesbury SN16 9EW, United Kingdom
Notable mentions
Best five-star hotels: Lords of the Manor Hotel, The Slaughters Manor House
Best four-star hotels: The Lygon Arms; The Hare and Hounds Hotel; The Fish Hotel; Manor House Hotel; The Bay Tree Hotel; Farncombe Estate
Best heritage hotels: The Lamb Inn, Thornbury Castle
Best hotels with a bar: The Swan Ascott, The Frogmill
Best spa hotels: Kings Head Hotel, Lucknam Park Hotel
Best-located hotels: The White Hart Inn, The Swan Hotel
Best charming hotels: The Old Swan, Cleeve Hill Hotel
Best riverside hotels: Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa, Macdonald Alveston Manor Hotel
Best golf hotels: Hilton Puckrup Hall
Best central hotels: Hotel du Vin, Edward Hotel
Best budget hotels: The Fleece at Cirencester, Stratton House Hotel
FAQs about the best dog-friendly hotels in the Cotswolds
Where can you take dogs in the Cotswolds?
There are endless nature areas, woodland and hills to take your dog, as well as some dog-friendly attractions and lots of pubs and restaurants which allow dogs.
Are the Cotswolds good for dogs?
Yes, with many walking routes, swimming lakes, villages to stroll around and plenty of dog-friendly hotels, the Cotswolds is ideal for dogs.
Can dogs go in the river at Bourton on the Water?
Yes, and since the Water is shallow, it is ideal for dogs which want to cool off in the summer but aren’t necessarily swimmers.
So, if you are planning to take your dog to the countryside, why not take your pick of these ten best dog-friendly hotels in the Cotswolds, all of which make an ideal base for exploring a wonderful region of the UK?
