Discover Dog-Friendly Adventures along the Great West Way

Looking to bring your dog on holiday this season? From scenic canal walks and heritage-rich villages to cosy pet-friendly hotels, the Great West Way is bursting with dog-friendly experiences along the route between London and Bristol.

Why Travel the Great West Way with your Dog? 

The Great West Way is perfect for dog lovers who don’t want to leave their furry companions behind. Stretching 125 miles through the glorious countryside, historic market towns, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this touring route is filled with green spaces, riverside paths, and pet-friendly spots to eat, stay, and play.

Take a look at the range of dog-friendly things to do, places to eat and accommodation perfect for you and your furry friend!

Dog-Friendly Things to Do

Stretching from London to Bristol and with 3 National Landscapes on route, there are an abundance of walking trails ready for your dog to explore! Plus, with a range of pet-friendly attractions, you can enjoy company with your companion whilst discovering everything the Great West Way has to offer.

Dog-Friendly Places to Eat

Looking for a bite to eat without leaving your dog outside? More and more restaurants, pub, cafes and hotels along the Great West Way are throwing their doors open to welcome dog owners and their canine companions! From local country pubs to city restaurants, there are plenty dog-friendly places to eat available between London and Bristol.

Dog-Friendly Places to Stay

Spend as long as you like along the Great West Way with a range of dog-friendly accommodation between Bristol and London. From fancy hotels and countryside inns, cosy self-catering cottages and narrowboats, there are plenty options to suit you and your furry friend.

Top Dog Friendly Places to Visit

When exploring the Great West Way with your dog this season, there are a range of places you must visit. From Bristol to London, explore dog-friendly parks, cafés and more.

Bring your Dog to Bath
Walk the elegant Georgian streets of Bath, take in the views from Alexandra Park, or enjoy a canal-side stroll with your dog this season. There are a range of dog-friendly cafés and pubs in Bath, with water bowls and treats available for your furry friend, whilst you enjoy the local delights yourself.

Dog Walks along The Kennet & Avon Canal
One of the UK’s most picturesque canal routes, stretching from Reading to Bristol is the Kennet and Avon Canal. The towpath is ideal for leisurely dog walks and whilst you are visiting this part of the Great West Way, be sure to explore charming villages like Bradford on Avon and Devizes.

Savernake Forest in Marlbourgh, Wiltshire 
Let your dog off the lead in Savernake Forest, ancient woodlands near Marlborough. With shaded trails and open glades, this is a favourite for both two-legged and four-legged explorers.

Avebury World Heritage Site
Head to Avebury in Wiltshire during your Great West Way visit where dogs on leads are welcome to walk among the mysterious Neolithic stone circles and grassy landscapes surrounding this iconic site.

Windsor Great Park, along the River Thames
Windsor Great Park is a sprawling royal parkland perfect for dogs with boundless energy. Stretching across 4,800 acres, there are plenty of trails and open spaces to enjoy. Head away from Windsor Castle as you enjoy a 2-mile journey into the Great Park via the iconic Long Walk, where you will reach the King George III and Copper Horse statue. Further inland is Virginia Lake. Surrounded by woodland and more historic monuments, it is the perfect place to take your dog on a walk.

Travelling with your Dog

Those of us with a cherished pet know that they’re an integral part of the family unit. In fact, our furry friends often spend years by our side, providing us with plenty of great memories and emotional support in even the toughest of times. As they play such a significant role in our day-to-day lives, we always want our pets to feel comfortable and safe, just as we do our human family members.

One of the ways we can best protect our pets is by providing them with a safe, pleasant travel experience when venturing along the Great West Way. This article from Comparethemarket shares plenty of helpful guidance on how to drive safely with your pet, including tips on finding them a comfy crate, strapping them securely into your vehicle, and keeping them happy, fed and occupied while they’re in the back of your car. As well as this, it offers crucial insight into the dangers of leaving your pet alone in your vehicle, as well as the risks of not getting them microchipped before you set off on your journey.

While dogs are generally easy to travel with due to their eagerness to get outside and explore, there are always potential hazards that come with travelling any distance on the road. For this reason, it’s always important to educate yourself on these critical safety tips and precautions before setting off on a journey of any length, to ensure a pleasant experience for both you and your dog.