Our Top Picks of Cottages for Pet Friendly Holidays

It’s no secret that we have a small elephant large dog in the house – and last year rather than inflicting her on friends we spent an inordinate amount of time hunting for cottages for pet friendly holidays, and we took Blue the rottweiler to France with us. We were rather dreading what we had taken on… but it turned out to be a brilliant idea. Simple to book, easy to travel, and far less stress than worrying how much of our friend’s wallpaper she’s eating while we’re away. And we’re not alone – we’re a nation of animal lovers and for many people leaving their beloved pooch behind whilst they go on holiday is out of the question as they would simply miss them too much.

We were on a press trip for HomeAway.co.uk (UK’s leading rentals site with over 545,000 properties listed), and finding a dog-friendly property was a breeze with their pet friendly search options – as it is with most property rental companies now.

As HomeAway.co.uk Regional Director Erica Chang, said, “We know that many holidaymakers don’t want to leave their pets behind when they go away as they are part of the family. On our site it is easy to search for properties where pets feel welcome and there are suitable facilities like enclosed gardens. The cost of holidays do add up but by taking dogs with you there is no need for expensive kennel fees or feelings of guilt.”

Cottages for Pet Friendly Holidays

NEW FOREST – Pine View cottage

This four star, three bedroom cottage in Milford-on-Sea is ideal for families with dogs. It has three bedrooms, new bathroom, open plan lounge/dining room and a sunny south-facing conservatory which overlooks the enclosed garden and deck area. A short walk to Milford on Sea village centre and beach, this is a great place for families and pets who don’t want to be parted from their owners – prices start from £405 a week.

WALES – Tyn y Coed

A beautiful luxury conversion of a pair of cottages sitting on the edge of the Brecon Beacons that sleeps six and welcomes pets. The property has a wood burner stove in the lounge, large dining kitchen and three double bedrooms. The cottage has no neighbours, and you can enjoy the peace and solitude from the hot tub (particularly delicious under the stars) in the safe enclosed garden  – prices start from £440 a week.

SCOTLAND – Barnyards Cottage

If you want to get away from it all then why not escape to this cottage in the Lammermuir Hills near Dunbar? The 150 year old refurbished cottage is situated in one of the sunniest places in Scotland and is surrounded by gardens that are perfect for dogs. With Belhaven, Whitesands, Thorntonloch, Skateraw and Pease Bay beaches, Dunbar Castle and John Muir Country Park to explore, you won’t want to leave – prices start from £295 a week.

CORNWALL – Medrose

Cornwall is renowned for being a particularly pet-friendly county where your four legged friend will be made particularly welcome. If you are looking for something special, Medrose in Rock is it. With five bedrooms, open-plan living space leading out on to a decked sun terrace and self contained garden it is perfect for children and pets. The house is located less than half a mile to the nearest beach which is great for long walks with the dogs – prices start at £1,500 per week.

FRANCE – La Maison Blanche

If you want to hop on a ferry then how about this beautiful, dog friendly Brittany farmhouse? It has five bedrooms, sleeps up to 12 and has a private pool as well as great gardens. Riolo is a hamlet close to many lakes which are ideal for cycling along the tow-paths, picnicking and walking the dogs – prices start from £975 a week.