Things To Do In Dorset with your Dog
Dorset is a county that is as rich in culture as it is in beauty. It is also an inclusive county, welcoming couples, families, four-legged friends and solo travellers alike to its outstanding coastline, endless stretches of beach, rolling countryside and bustling towns and villages. As providers of pet-friendly holiday cottages across Bridport we want to share some of the wonderful things to see and do with your dog when visiting Dorset. From dog-friendly beaches, houses and gardens that are bursting with heritage and flora to cosy country pubs, here are our favourite places to take dogs in Dorset.
Abbotsbury Gardens
On the Dorset coast, between Bridport and Weymouth sits Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens. The world famous gardens are a mix of exotic and tropical flora as well as traditional country gardens, wild meadows, landscaped lawns, lily ponds and Jurassic Coast view point to name just a few of Abbotsbury’s features. Best of all, for dog-friendly attractions in Dorset, Abbotsbury Gardens is one of the best, allowing dogs on leads throughout the whole site including the restaurant.
Forde Abbey
Just 30 minutes north of Bridport is the ‘South West Treasure’, Forde Abbey house and gardens. For you and your four-legged friend, the award-winning gardens which have evolved over 900 years to what they are today. This dog-friendly day out in Dorset promises beautiful formal gardens, a plethora of tree species and the renowned Centenary Fountain which reaches a height 160 feet – the highest powered fountain in England.
Maiden Castle
You’ll take a trip back to 1st century BC with this dog-friendly Dorset area of historic interest. Maiden Castle in Dorset, measuring the size of 50 football pitches, is one of the largest and most intricate Iron Age hill forts in Europe. Once the site of protection to hundreds of people, Maiden Castle has a rich and impressive history in its immense boundaries and it is ready for you and your pooch to discover.
Monmouth Beach, Lyme Regis
This sand and pebble dog-friendly beach in Dorset is part of the superb Jurassic Coast which attracts thousands of visitors every year. Walking from West Bay right through to Charmouth passing through St Gabrielle’s, you and your dog can stretch your legs, take in the fresh sea air and enjoy the truly outstanding views all year round. There are lots of dog-friendly walks and paths meandering along the Jurassic Coast which take you over Golden Cap – the highest point in the South of England.
Hive Beach and Hive Beach Cafe
At Burton Bradstock is some of Dorset’s most stunning coastline and stretches of beach. Hive Beach is a fantastic shingle beach which welcomes dogs throughout the year. Be aware that from 1st June to the end of September restrictions do apply, but dogs are welcome on at least part of the beach all year round. After a long walk across the cliffs, it’s time for you and your dog to indulge in the heavenly Hive Beach Cafe. You’ll find that the vast majority of pubs and cafes in Bridport and across Dorset are very welcoming of dogs. You can find some of our favourite dog-friendly pubs in Dorset here.
Dorset is brimming with dog-friendly attractions and sites open to dogs, so why not have a browse of our fantastic selection of self-catered properties and book your pet friendly holiday cottage.