Our Dog-Friendly Guide To The Lake District
The Lake District is one of the most dog-friendly locations in the UK, so you'll be relived to know that you won't have to leave them behind during your staycation with us at Brathay.
And, although hitting the fells is an obvious choice, we appreciate not everyone comes to the Lakes to knock off all the Wainwrights! Whether it's visiting a stately home or castle, jumping aboard a Winderemere cruise, or just enjoying any activity where dogs can tag along, there's plenty of things to do and see with your pup in tow.
Here's our simple guide to dog-friendly places in the Lake District to get your tail wagging!
DOG-FRIENDLY PLACES TO EAT IN THE LAKE DISTRICT
Chester’s by the River, Ambleside
A bright modern cafe with a riverside deck, serving homemade lunch, classic cakes and damn good coffee. Great location, buzzing atmosphere and an imaginative, vegetarian menu.
Sticklebarn, Ambleside
Run by the National Trust, Sticklebarn sits at the heart of miles of walking routes in the Langdales, serving breakfast, brunch and lunch. Fuel up with great coffee before your adventure or relax with real ale afterwards on the outdoor terrace or by the fire. Children, dogs and muddy boots welcome!
The Drunken Duck, Ambleside
For something a bit more special, this much-loved Lake District pub has a quirky, contemporary-country style that feels smart yet relaxed and with a real sense of place. Set up on the hills between Ambleside and Hawkshead - the views of the fells from this pub are simply phenomenal.
DOG-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES IN THE LAKE DISTRICT
Everyone wants to enjoy the Windermere Lake to its full potential, which often includes a boat and experiencing it from on the water itself. Windermere Lake Cruises allow dogs on all scheduled cruises, so there’s no holding you back!
Reputedly the most beautiful train journey in England, this 15-inch, narrow gauge steam railway carries passengers along seven miles of scenic track, from the old Roman Port of Ravenglass (the only coastal village in the Lake District National Park) along the Eskdale Valley to Eskdale during a 40-minute ride. Well behaved dogs are welcome and travel for free, but not on seats!
Stagshaw Gardens, Ambleside
Owned by the National Trust, Stagshaw isn’t particularly well-known or publicised, but if you’re interested in woodland gardening, or would just like a quiet place to explore near to Ambleside, you’ll love a visit here. (Perfect for those furry friends who like peace and quiet)
OUR TOP DOG WALKS IN THE LAKE DISTRICT
If you’re looking to see some of the spectacular waterfalls that the Lake District has to offer, then you must schedule some time to see Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall in Ambleside.
Loughrigg Fell, one of the best walks from Ambleside, gives spectacular panoramic views of the falls, Langdales, and Grasmere. It's a great choice if you want instant scenery without too much of an uphill slog!
An easy 2-mile route that is possibly the most photographed short walk in the Lakes and always a hot favourite with everyone at Brathay! It’s a low-level circular path around the edges of the tarn surrounded by woodland. You can start from a few different car parks, all about 5 miles out of Ambleside towards Coniston. The views of Langdale are to die for on a clear day.
Wansfell Pike The climb to Wansfell Pike just outside Ambleside is steep but well worth the effort. Surrounded by deep valleys and woodland and waterfalls, the route is separated from its neighbouring peaks giving stunning unrestricted views of Ambleside and beyond from the summit.
With so much to do and see with your four-legged friends while in the Lakes a stay here is a must!
If any of our recommendations have temped you to come and stay with us, whatever the weather, or time of year, and however chilled or super-adventurous you want to be, we have en-suite rooms, self-catering properties and campervan pitches to suit.
Please get in touch if you would like to arrange to bring your dog to Brathay Hall.
Looking for more things to do in the Lake District? Check out our Autumn and Winter Guide To The Lake District.