When you picture a dog-friendly Cotswolds getaway, you probably imagine a tail-wagging Labrador stretched out beside a pub fire, or a bright-eyed Spaniel trotting through rolling fields. My rescue dog, Bernie, is neither.
An English Bull Terrier with a permanently vacant expression, a vaguely threatening gait (I promise he's friendly) and a decidedly urban aura, he looked wildly out of place against the area's iconic honey-coloured stone cottages and bustling village greens.
Yet after a weekend in the Cotswolds, it was clear he'd found his happy place – and, more surprisingly, that this aspirational corner of the country had welcomed him with open arms.
This wasn't always the case. When my family first met Bernie, he had been abandoned by his previous owners. Severely emaciated, with overgrown claws and sunken eyes, he spent his first weeks with us still drinking from the toilet and scavenging for whatever food he could find, not quite able to believe we were going to care for him.
Even after he'd regained a healthy weight, I was conscious of the reactions he provoked. Growing up in rural Cambridgeshire, there was a pre-approved list of 'the right kind of dog'. Bernie, with his egg-shaped head and muscular build, didn't quite fit the mould.
English Bull Terriers have a reputation for being stubborn, and an unsocialised one was certainly a challenge, but it soon became clear to me that Bernie had a heart of gold and affection enough for ten Labradors.
More than a decade on, when I booked our first dog-friendly weekend in the Cotswolds together, I was still a little apprehensive. Turns out, I needn't have worried...
A cosy, dog-friendly Cotswolds cottage
For our stay, we checked into a traditional stone cottage through Paws & Stay, located alongside The Feathered Nest Inn in the Gloucestershire countryside.
Everything about it felt quintessentially Cotswolds. Built from the area's warm, signature stone and filled with character, the cottage featured exposed beams, cosy interiors, a divine roll top bath and the whole place smelled like a herb garden.
Bernie, meanwhile, had other priorities.
Within minutes of arriving, he'd discovered the enormous jar of complimentary dog treats, before claiming a sunny spot by the door from which to supervise proceedings. It was clear he'd settled in remarkably quickly – not bad for a dog who once struggled to leave my side.
Country pub dining with spectacular views
One of the joys of staying at The Feathered Nest was that exceptional food was only a short wander away.
The inn's restaurant offers elevated pub dining that celebrates seasonal ingredients, all accompanied by sweeping views across the surrounding Gloucestershire countryside. On a clear day, the scenery is (almost) as memorable as what's on the plate – though admittedly the sirloin I was served would be tough to beat.
For those visiting with dogs, the setting is particularly appealing. Dogs are welcome in the bar area – which features bar stools literally made out of vintage saddles – while, during warmer months, guests can dine outside in the garden, making it easy to include four-legged companions in the experience.
After a day spent exploring villages and walking through fields, it felt like the perfect place to unwind. Bernie made sure my bed was all warmed up for me by the time I returned (at which point I got him settled in the lovely sheepskin dog bed provided by the inn).
Dog-friendly days out in the Cotswolds
One of the biggest surprises of the trip was just how easy it was to explore the area with a dog in tow.
A visit to Daylesford
It is a truth universally acknowledged...that you can't stay in the vicinity of Daylesford without paying it a visit.
Daylesford Organic has become something of a Cotswolds institution, attracting visitors from across the country with its beautifully curated farm shop, cafés and homeware offerings. Pretty much everything is bottled, jarred, labelled and displayed in a way that's utterly irresistible.
As soon as we pulled up, I clocked the dog clientele: Chihuahuas, tiny Terriers, obedient Retrievers. All I could think was: oh, they are going to hate Bernie.
Happily for me, I couldn't have been more wrong. Before Bernie had even left my car boot, a couple strode over to give him a pet and tell him what a beautiful boy he was. Inside, Daylesford's shoppers doubled-down; in fact, I could barely shop he was so bombarded with compliments and well-intended questions.
Even when Bernie got a little overwhelmed and barked, I didn't feel uncomfortable. In fact, I felt the opposite: here, at the epicentre of aspirational, lifestyle-driven dog ownership, my unphotogenic rescue bull terrier was being celebrated.
Broadway
Around 30 minutes away from The Feathered Nest, Broadway offers exactly the sort of chocolate-box Cotswolds experience visitors from far and wide hope to find.
Its handsome high street is lined with independent shops, cafés and galleries, many of which welcome dogs. Spend a leisurely afternoon wandering between boutiques before stopping at No.32 Broadway, a relaxed Italian café serving Tuscan-inspired dishes in a dog-friendly setting.
For particularly pampered pups, there's also The Cotswolds Dog Boutique, where owners can browse everything from treats and toys to stylish accessories.
Bourton-on-the-Water
A short drive west lies the picturesque Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the 'Venice of the Cotswolds', owing to its five low, arched stone bridges. Visible from the village green crossing the shallow River Windrush, it's one of the prettiest spots in the region – and an ideal destination for a gentle stroll.
The village is packed with dog-friendly cafés, restaurants and attractions, making it easy to spend several hours exploring. We particularly loved Botanical, a beautiful café, shop and ice cream parlour that also happens to serve Marshfield Farm's ice cream for dogs (needless to say, Bernie indulged).
If it's a hot enough day for ice cream, don't be surprised if everyone starts climbing in the river – it's all part of the culture.
Walking the Cotswolds
Of course, no trip to the Cotswolds would be complete without making the most of the countryside itself. As well as relaxation, one of the primary perks of any pet-friendly staycation is the opportunity to explore new walks, which can offer pets an exciting mix of different sights, sounds and smells to enjoy.
If your dog is younger and more athletic than Bernie (I'm looking at you, Spaniel parents!), the region's headline act is The Cotswolds Way: a 102-mile route through the very best scenery this AONB has on offer. Don't miss it if you're after sweeping views, historic monuments and some of England's most picturesque villages on foot.
While we didn't attempt the entire route, Bernie and I pootled past The Feathered Nest's gardens and found a dreamy bridlepath, offering a sun-dappled walk aflutter with butterflies – brimstones, speckled wood, red admirals – and lined with enormous sycamore trees. Bernie enjoyed basking in the sunshine just as much as I did.
I concluded that the Cotswolds are just as dog-friendly as I'd dreamed. What I didn't count on was the pleasant revelation that, just like people, dogs don't have to look the countryside part to firmly belong there. Who knew?
Best travel accessories for your dog
Stay safe during your holiday walks with this dog lead featuring reflective stitching, making your pooch more visible during low light conditions. It offers a sturdy and comfortable grip for you, too.
This travel-friendly dog food storage system is compact, convenient and easy to use. We love the side-mounted food chute and the pockets that fit collapsible bowls and other adventure essentials.
Perfect for when you're on the go, this must-have travel accessory will help you keep your dog hydrated on holiday, whether you're on a challenging hike or enjoying a seaside escape.
This car seat belt helps comfortably restrain your pet in the front or back seat. It comes in a pack of two for those with two dogs or two cars, and can adjust from 53 to 74 cm.
Containing three inner chambers for dry treats, water and airtight storage, this set is perfect for a weekend away with your dog. It's lightweight but rugged and makes for a great gift, too.
Heading for cooler climes? This parka will keep your dog's body temperature stable in the cold weather. The winter jacket is ideal for dogs with wet fur and is quick to put on and take off.
A handy 750ml bottle that’s great for carrying water for your dog when you’re out walking. It’s lightweight and the stainless steel keeps water fresh for hours, while the plastic lid is used for feeding your pooch.
Made to ensure warmth and comfort while your dog is being transported, this bag has quilted outer fabric, luxurious plush fur lining and a fold-out water bowl. The adjustable shoulder strap keeps you comfy too!
Beco's eco-friendly dog waste bags are made from sustainable materials and degradable additives, so they don't put a strain on the environment. They're built extra thick and strong to avoid unwanted messes, too.
A sumptuously soft and cosy pillow for pets, M&S' padded pillow providea the ideal snug spot for your dog to lay down their heads whenever they’re in the mood to doze off or relax during your holiday.
Protect your dog's paws from tough terrain with these weather-resistant boots with their reliable closure system and protective innovation found in human walking boots.
A convenient tin to carry on days out, this comes complete with a pop-up dog bowl, printed waste bags and a stylish lead. Pop it in your bag for a day of playing in the park or a walk in the woods.
This water-resistant crate is foldable and ideal for use indoors and outdoors. It features durable Oxford fabric and every side has ventilated mesh panels to provide your pet with ample fresh air.
The easiest way to keep your car seats clean and dry, this durable seat hammock was created specifically for the dirtiest dogs, so wherever you're off camping, exploring or walking with your dog, this water-resistant and grippy hammock is a must-have!
This easily transportable pet bed is perfect for keeping your companion comfy during weekends away or long drives in the country. It's complete with a carry handle and adorned with an eye-catching print, as well as being washable.
Maddy is the Homes Writer at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she can be found writing about the latest interiors news and collating inspiring trend edits. She has previously worked for Good Housekeeping, Prima and Red, and has an MA in Classics and Ancient History from the University of Manchester and a BA in English Literature and Creative Writing from the University of East Anglia, where she was the editor-in-chief of the student newspaper.
