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WalesMany of us hate leaving our dogs at home while we enjoy a cottage break, so why not take them along? A huge number of cottages in Buckinghamshire welcome pets and there are plenty of great spots where your dog is more than welcome.
Here’s a look at top days out (free and paid) you can enjoy with your dog in this lovely county.
Dog-Friendly Walks in Buckinghamshire
| Walk Name | Description (incl. Length and Parking) | Postcode |
|---|---|---|
| Stowe Gardens | Beautiful National Trust gardens with various walking trails. Dogs are welcome in all areas except the café. Plenty of parking available. Length: Various trails up to 3 miles. | MK18 5EQ |
| Wendover Woods | Woodland trails with scenic views and routes for all abilities. Parking is available at multiple car parks. Length: 1-5 miles depending on the trail. | HP22 5NQ |
| Black Park Country Park | Large park with lake views, woodland walks and café. Ample parking available. Length: Up to 4 miles of trails. | SL3 6DS |
| Chiltern Hills Ridgeway | Part of the Ridgeway National Trail with rolling countryside and woodland. Car parks available at several access points. Length: 2-8 miles. | HP27 0UU |
| Whiteleaf Cross and Brush Hill | Historic chalk hill with woodland walks and panoramic views. Free parking nearby. Length: 2-4 miles. | HP27 0LY |
Dog-Friendly Dining Options
Here are five top dog-friendly restaurants in Buckinghamshire where you’re as welcome with four legs as two:
- The Old Queens Head
- Location: Hammersley Lane, Penn, Buckinghamshire, HP10 8EY
- Phone: +44 1494 812184
- Food: Traditional British pub food served daily. Dogs are welcomed with water bowls and there’s a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
- Type: Pub and restaurant
- A lovely spot to relax with your dog, whether indoors or in the outdoor seating area?
- The Jolly Farmer
- Location: Gold Hill West, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire, SL9 9HH
- Phone: +44 1753 889379
- Food: British pub food with a warm, friendly ambiance. Water bowls and doggy biscuits are provided for canine visitors.
- Type: Pub and restaurant
- A cozy local pub that’s especially welcoming to dogs?
- The Russell Arms
- Location: 2 Chalkshire Road, Butlers Cross, Buckinghamshire, HP17 0TS
- Phone: +44 1296 622209
- Food: Country pub serving freshly prepared British dishes, with a beer garden for outdoor dining.
- Type: Pub and restaurant
- A great stop for a hearty meal after a walk with your dog in the nearby countryside?
- The Black Horse Chesham
- Location: The Vale, Chesham, Buckinghamshire, HP5 3NS
- Phone: +44 1494 782141
- Food: Classic pub fare in a countryside setting. Dogs are welcome, with water bowls provided.
- Type: Country pub
- Ideal for a quiet meal with your dog after a walk through the surrounding rural areas?
- The Swan Inn
- Location: Village Road, Denham, Buckinghamshire, UB9 5BH
- Phone: +44 1895 832085
- Food: Traditional pub meals with an emphasis on local ingredients. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area.
- Type: Pub and restaurant
- Situated in a picturesque village, it’s a charming spot to visit with your dog?
Recommended pet-friendly days out
As well as being easy on the eye, Buckinghamshire is packed with activities and days out that will suit anyone traveling to the area with their pet. Here’s some of the main ones…
1. Stowe Gardens
- Postcode: MK18 5EQ
- Entry: Paid – Free for National Trust members, family ticket available (£35)
- Parking: Free for members, pay and display for non-members
- Description: Stowe Gardens, managed by the National Trust, offers vast gardens filled with temples, monuments, and serene landscapes. Dogs are welcome throughout the gardens (on-lead) and can enjoy a dedicated dog trail. Although dogs aren’t allowed inside the café, there’s covered outdoor seating where you and your dog can relax. The large open spaces provide the perfect opportunity for long, peaceful walks with your dog.
- Dog-Friendly Notes: Water bowls are available around the grounds.
- Visit Stowe Gardens
2. Wendover Woods
- Postcode: HP22 5NQ
- Entry: Free, but parking is paid (£2.20-£8 depending on stay duration)
- Parking: Ample paid parking available
- Description: Wendover Woods offers a range of walking trails for all abilities, from short, easy walks to more challenging hikes. The Zog Trail is a great option for children, while dog owners will love exploring the quieter, dog-friendly paths. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area of the café, and the surrounding woodland provides a peaceful retreat for dogs who enjoy a more active day out.
- Dog-Friendly Notes: Dogs can be off-lead in some areas, but must be kept under control.
- Visit Wendover Woods
3. Chiltern Open Air Museum
- Postcode: HP8 4AB
- Entry: Paid – £10.50 for adults, £32 family tickets
- Parking: Free on-site parking
- Description: This open-air museum features over 30 historic buildings set in a beautiful rural setting. Dogs are welcome on-lead throughout the outdoor areas but not allowed inside the buildings. It’s an ideal spot for a mix of history and nature, with plenty of outdoor space for dogs to roam. Be mindful that livestock may be present in certain areas, so always keep your dog under control.
- Dog-Friendly Notes: Water bowls available on-site.
- Visit Chiltern Open Air Museum
4. The Little Boat Trip
- Postcode: HP19 7QW (Aylesbury Basin)
- Entry: Paid – Adults £9.50, Children £7.50
- Parking: Paid parking available near the canal basin
- Description: Enjoy a leisurely canal boat trip on the Grand Union Canal with your dog. The Little Boat Trip is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, with your dog welcome on board. It’s an excellent way to experience Buckinghamshire from the water. Pre-booking is essential, as spaces are limited.
- Dog-Friendly Notes: Dogs must be on-lead while on board.
- Visit The Little Boat Trip
5. Waddesdon Manor
- Postcode: HP18 0JH
- Entry: Paid – Free for National Trust members, family ticket £45
- Parking: Free parking available
- Description: A stunning National Trust property, Waddesdon Manor features beautiful gardens perfect for dog walks. With five different walking routes, dogs are welcome in all outdoor areas and in the Stables Courtyard, where you can stop for a bite to eat. Make sure to pick up a “Poupon’s Doggy Bag” during your visit for your furry friend.
- Dog-Friendly Notes: Dogs are welcome in the gardens but not inside the house.
- Visit Waddesdon Manor
Book a Pet Friendly Cottate in Buckinghamshire
Before you leave: Some quick doggy tips for a perfect Buckinghamshire holiday
- Plan for Woodland and Countryside Walks: Buckinghamshire offers beautiful countryside walks like those at Wendover Woods and Stowe Gardens. Ensure you’re prepared for varied terrain by bringing sturdy footwear and a lead, especially when walking near livestock areas.
- It can get MUDDY: If you’re heading out for walks in places like the Chiltern Hills or along the Thames Path, it’s a good idea to carry towels for any muddy patches your dog might encounter, as well as a durable lead for more challenging sections.
- Pack the essentials: In rural areas, facilities might be limited. Carry water, a portable bowl, and waste bags to keep your dog hydrated and comfortable during long walks in places like Black Park or Whiteleaf Cross.
- Local Rules to be aware of: Some areas of Buckinghamshire’s parks and estates, like Waddesdon Manor, have designated zones for dogs, and restrictions may apply in certain sections during busy times. Always follow posted guidelines to ensure a smooth visit.
- Don’t forget to pack a slurp of water: When exploring the more remote parts of the county, like the Chilterns or Coombe Hill, ensure you have water for your dog, as facilities might not always be available nearby. It’s important to keep dogs hydrated, especially on longer hikes.