Best Days Out with Dogs in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is famously dog-friendly- it’s not just about the miles of beautiful walks, but also the number of attractions, gardens, and historic sites that welcome four-legged companions.
Whether you’re here for a family holiday or a cosy escape for two (with the dog, of course), there are plenty of places to explore together. Here are our top picks for dog-friendly days out in the Cotswolds.
1. Sudeley Castle & Gardens, Winchcombe
Dogs on leads are welcome throughout the stunning grounds of Sudeley Castle, including most of its formal gardens. Stroll past ancient ruins, explore themed gardens, and enjoy the rolling Cotswold views together. While dogs can’t go inside the castle itself, the grounds alone make for a magical day out.
Why it’s great for dogs: Shady paths, lots of open space, and plenty of interesting scents.
2. Cotswold Wildlife Park, Burford
Yes, you read that right! Cotswold Wildlife Park is one of the few zoos in the UK where dogs on leads are welcome! You and your pup can wander through the landscaped grounds, see giraffes, rhinos, and penguins, and enjoy the adventure playground (for the kids, not the dogs!).
Why it’s great for dogs: Huge grounds to wander, and plenty of attention from fellow visitors who will no doubt say hello.
www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk
3. Broadway Tower & Country Park
Dogs are welcome at Broadway Tower’s country park, one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Cotswolds. Take in sweeping views across 16 counties on a clear day, explore the deer park, and finish with a drink at the dog-friendly café.
Why it’s great for dogs: A mix of countryside paths, wide open spaces, and a dog-friendly café for refuelling.
4. Batsford Arboretum, near Moreton-in-Marsh
Dogs on leads can join you as you wander through the spectacular seasonal displays at Batsford Arboretum. Whether it’s autumn colour, spring blossom, or peaceful shaded paths in summer, it’s a wonderful sensory day out for both humans and dogs.
Why it’s great for dogs: Long, winding paths under the trees, and the arboretum’s café terrace is dog-friendly too.
5. Hidcote (National Trust), near Chipping Campden
One of the Cotswolds’ most famous gardens, Hidcote is a delight to explore and happily, dogs on leads are welcome in the grounds on certain days (check their Dog Walking Policy for details). With its series of “garden rooms,” hidden pathways, and sweeping views, it’s as stimulating for pups as it is for people.
Why it’s great for dogs: Plenty of nooks and shaded areas to explore together, plus National Trust always makes dogs feel welcome with water bowls and treats.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/gloucestershire-cotswolds/hidcote
6. Daylesford Organic Farm, Kingham
More than just a farm shop, Daylesford Organic is a destination in itself. Browse the food market, enjoy the café or outdoor dining (dogs welcome in certain areas), and wander the grounds. Perfect for stocking up on foodie treats to take back to your cottage.
Why it’s great for dogs: Dog bowls at the ready, outdoor seating, and plenty of fellow four-legged friends.
7. Bourton-on-the-Water & Birdland Park & Gardens
Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” Bourton-on-the-Water is great to wander with dogs. While the Model Village doesn’t allow pets, the town has dog-friendly attractions like Birdland Park & Gardens, where pups are welcome on leads to see flamingos, penguins, and parrots.
Why it’s great for dogs: A lively, buzzing day out with shallow streams for paddling and plenty of dog-friendly cafés and pubs.
Staying in a Dog-Friendly Cottage
At Tucked Away, we know dogs are part of the family. All our homes are completely pet-friendly, with plenty of walks from the doorstep and dog beds for snoozing after a big day out. Whether you’re exploring castles, arboretums, or wildlife parks, your pup can come along for the ride.
From castles and arboretums to wildlife parks and foodie stops, the Cotswolds is bursting with dog-friendly adventures waiting to be discovered
Explore Our Unique Lodgings
Because here at Tucked Away, we know The Cotswolds is the kind of place little moments feel big again.
What our guests have said
"Lovely stay and this beautiful property. The Interior was spotless and the rear garden being secure meant we could relax knowing that our dog could not escape. The end of the garden got full sun but the lower terrace provided shade if needed. The decor, soft furnishings and mood lighting inside sets this property apart from many others."
"A lovely cottage in a perfect location. Winchcombe is great as a base to explore the area and big enough to be entertaining on its own. The cottage is in a location where you can walk everywhere so the car stays at home. It is beautifully furnished and decorated an every appliance you could wish for is there. Really loved staying there and would definitely go back"
"We had a lovely and peaceful stay at the Cottage. You get the charming stone house on the outside, and a warm and tastefully decorated inside; perfect!We were able to explore the nearby area on foot (met some cows), and the Cottage is in a very convenient location to reach other villages and things to do and see. It was exactly the vacation we were looking for."