I love two things in this life more than anything else: London and pets. Mainly dogs for me, but I really enjoy any cute furry friend. I always feel that during a magical trip to the city, you do not want to leave them behind.
Lucky for you, London is already a very pet-friendly city. It has many cafes and restaurants that allow pets inside. Additionally, the city offers huge green spaces where they can run and play. In fact, roughly 47% of Greater London is comprised of green space. This makes a Pet Friendly Vacation in London, UK a brilliant idea for any traveler.
I spent a lot of time researching how to make this trip perfect. You must do your research carefully before you pack your bags. First of all, I want to share my personal experience. I am a mature traveler who loves to explore every corner of a new place.
I do not like to leave my best friend at home. Therefore, I decided to take my dog to London for a long stay. It was an adventure. A true joy.
The Legal Maze: Getting Ready for the Journey
First of all, you must ensure your pet is ready for travel. The rules for a Pet Friendly Vacation in London, UK are very strict. To enter Great Britain, your pet must have a readable microchip. You should know exactly where that microchip is located so the border staff can check it easily.
On top of that, your pet needs a valid rabies vaccination. You must wait at least 21 full days after the first vaccination before you travel.
You also need the right documents. This usually means a valid animal health certificate or an accepted pet passport. However, you must remember that Great Britain vets can no longer put rabies vaccination details in pet passports issued in Great Britain.
If you are bringing a dog, there is one more vital step. You must get a tapeworm treatment. A vet must give this to your dog between 24 and 120 hours before you arrive in Great Britain. If you forget this, your pet might be put into quarantine for up to 4 months. Nobody wants that. A total nightmare.
The France Workaround: A Secret Path
I learned a very helpful secret during my planning. Many airlines do not allow pets to fly in the cabin into the United Kingdom. However, France is right there. I flew into Paris because many airlines allow small pets in the cabin on flights to France. My dog weighs about 11.5 pounds, so she fits perfectly in a small carrier.
Later, I had to find a way to cross the English Channel. You can not take the Eurostar train with a pet. Therefore, I looked at other options. One option is a ferry, but many ferries require you to be in a car if you have a pet. I chose to use Le Shuttle, which is an underground tunnel train for cars. The journey is very quick and takes under an hour.
If you do not have a car, you can use a service like Folkestone Taxis. They are very friendly and help travelers with pets all the time. Additionally, some people use a service called Le Pet Express. They have a van that takes you and your pet from Calais to Ashford. It is affordable. Very convenient.
Resting Our Paws: Pet Friendly Hotels in London, UK
Finding the right place to sleep is the most important part of any trip. I looked for the best pet friendly hotels in London uk and found so many great choices.
room2 Chiswick was one of my first stops. They call themselves a ‘hometel’ because they want you to feel at home. They charge an extra £10 per pet per room, but this is capped at £50 per stay. It is a net-zero hotel, which is great for the planet.
The Hoxton, Southwark is another top pick. They do not charge an extra fee for pets. You just have to make a special request when you book. Dogs up to 40lbs are welcome there. It is very close to the Thames, which is perfect for an evening stroll.
If you have a larger dog, you should look at Canopy by Hilton London City. They allow dogs up to 74lbs. They charge a fee of £40 per pet. Mama Shelter in Shoreditch is also very fun. It is in a creative neighborhood and they allow both dogs and cats. They charge £25 per day for each animal. On the contrary, The Ned has a much stricter policy. They only allow small dogs and do not let them in public areas or member spaces.
For something truly unique, I suggest the South Place Hotel. They welcome all kinds of pets, including birds, fish, and even lizards. If you book directly through their website, your pet might even stay for free.
Finally, I must mention The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences. They have a VIPUP Package. For £40, your dog gets a hypoallergenic mattress and special treats like Steak Tartare from the ‘Mini Bar(k)’ menu. Luxury at its best. Simply divine.
Dining with Hounds: London’s Best Eateries
You will be happy to know that many restaurants in London love dogs as much as we do. pet friendly rentals london uk often do not have big kitchens, so you will want to eat out.
Brutto in Farringdon is an excellent Italian place. The late founder was a dog lover, and your pooches are more than welcome. They even have water bowls available. St. John is another iconic spot. Dogs are welcome in the airy bar area. If your dog is well-behaved, they might even get a bone to chew on.
I also visited Megan’s in Wimbledon. This chain is famous for being dog-friendly. They provide dog beds, water bowls, and treats. Additionally, L’Escargot in Soho is one of the oldest French restaurants in the city. They have a resident bulldog named Doris who sometimes works at the reception. They often give out treats to canine visitors.
If you want a more casual vibe, try Agora in Borough Market. It is a Greek-inspired spot where dogs are welcome on the ground level. For a fancy meal, The Harwood Arms in Fulham is the only Michelin-starred gastropub in London, and they welcome dogs because it is still a pub. Your dog will probably enjoy the fancy floor scraps there.
Posh Paws: Doggy Afternoon Tea
No trip to London is complete without afternoon tea. However, why should the humans have all the fun? Several places now offer tea for dogs.
The Parlour at Great Scotland Yard Hotel has a wonderful doggy tea. It costs £35 for dogs and £59 for humans. They serve doggy digestives and a fresh bowl of meat and veggies. A portion of the money goes to a charity called Dogs On The Streets.
The Egerton House Hotel in Knightsbridge offers a very posh experience. It costs £30 per dog. They serve chicken and beef meatloaf and even a ‘dog-tini’. On certain days, you can even get a professional artist to paint a portrait of your dog.
Love My Human Townhouse in Chelsea is another great spot. The price is only £10 per dog, which is a great deal. They have special beds for your dog to sit on while they enjoy beef meatballs and pumpkin puree. Finally, Jack and Beyond in Battersea offers a ‘woofin’ and ‘puppychinos’ for £16.50. A true treat for any pup.
Navigating the City: Tubes, Buses, and Boats
Moving around the city with a pet is very easy. Public transport is a huge part of any Pet Friendly Vacation in London, UK.
You can take dogs on the Underground (Tube) and buses for free. You must keep them on a lead or in a suitable container. However, you must be careful with escalators. Escalators can be very dangerous for paws.
You should use a lift or a staircase if you can. If you must use an escalator, you should carry your dog. If your dog is too big to carry, a member of staff might stop the escalator for you if the station is not busy.
I also tried the Uber Boat on the Thames. It is a fun and affordable way to see the city from the water. They have a bar on board, and it is much more relaxing than a car. Additionally, if you need a taxi, traditional black cabs usually accept dogs. You can also use Uber Pet to find a ride that welcomes your furry friend.
Green Havens: The Best Parks for Play
London has so much green space. It is a dream for dogs. pet service uk providers often recommend these spots for a reason.
Hyde Park is right in the middle of the city. Most of the 350-acre park is open for dogs to run off the lead. You can walk around the Serpentine Lake, but you must keep your dog on a lead near the water. Additionally, there are some areas like the Diana Memorial Fountain where dogs are not allowed.
Richmond Park is the largest royal park. It is an enclosed nature reserve with wild deer. You must be very careful here. During the deer birthing season from May to July, you must keep your dog on a lead at all times. Deer can feel threatened by dogs even from a long distance.
Hampstead Heath is another favorite. It is huge, covering 790 acres. It has woodlands, grassy fields, and even a swimming pond just for dogs. It is a great place to meet other dog owners. Greenwich Park is also lovely and offers amazing views of the London skyline. Just remember to stay away from the deer enclosure and the flower gardens.
Health and Safety: Peace of Mind
Sometimes, things go wrong. You might need a pet service uk in an emergency. It is important to know where to go.
Elizabeth Street Veterinary Clinic in Belgravia is a fantastic place. They offer 24-hour emergency care for pets in Central London. They have been caring for animals since 1813. They have separate wards for dogs and cats to reduce stress. You should keep their number, 020 7730 9102, in your phone just in case.
I also recommend doing a “puppy play day” if you are feeling stressed. Some places in London allow you to play with puppies to help with anxiety. Interactions with pets can significantly reduce feelings of depression. It is a joyful energy. A mood booster.
FAQ
Is London a pet-friendly city?
Yes, I found that London is a very pet-friendly city. It has many cafes and restaurants that allow pets inside. Additionally, the city offers plenty of green space where pets can run.
What is the most dog friendly holiday in the UK?
London is a top choice for a dog-inclusive city break in England. Many people now choose urban stays in the heart of the city over traditional countryside escapes.
Can you travel with pets to London?
You can certainly travel with pets to London as long as you follow the rules. You must use an approved route and have a valid pet travel document. However, you should check your specific route before you start your journey.
Can I take my dog on the tube in London?
Yes, dogs can travel on the Underground and buses for free. You must keep your pet on a lead or in a suitable container. Therefore, it is a very convenient way to see the city.
Which UK hotels allow dogs?
Many hotels in London allow dogs, including Room2Chiswick, The Hoxton, and Canopy by Hilton. Plus, there are over 138 accommodations in the city that accept pets.
What type of vacation is best with a dog?
An urban city break is often the best type of vacation for a dog in London. Gradually, more travelers are choosing experiences that include the whole family, including furry members.
Where to visit in the UK with a dog?
You should visit neighborhoods like Richmond, Hampstead, and Greenwich. These areas have great parks and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Can dogs go in London cabs?
Traditional black cabs usually accept dogs. You might also use services like Uber Pet to find a ride. Additionally, you should always ask the driver politely before you get in.
Which airlines allow dogs?
Airlines like French Bee and United allow small pets to travel in the cabin on flights to France. However, airlines like Virgin and British Airways usually transport pets in the hold or cargo.
Concluding Words
I learned many lessons during my Pet Friendly Vacation in London, UK. Here are a few more things to remember.
First, always check the rules of the hotel or restaurant before you go. Some places have weight limits or charge hidden fees. Second, carry water and waste bags with you at all times. You must pick up after your dog in the parks; it is the law. Third, introduce your pet to their travel crate before the journey. This helps reduce their stress.
Gradually, you will see that London is one of the most welcoming cities for pets. From the fancy hotels in Mayfair to the trendy cafes in Shoreditch, everyone seems to love a well-behaved dog. People will often stop you on the street to pet your dog. You will feel like a celebrity.
My dog had a blast on our trip. She loved the treats at the Athenaeum and the long runs in Hyde Park. She even enjoyed her first trip on the Elizabeth Line. When I saw her wagging her tail by the Thames, I knew the planning was worth it. A perfect holiday. A memory for a lifetime.
If you are thinking about a Pet Friendly Vacation in London, UK, do not hesitate. Just follow the rules, book a great hotel, and get ready for an adventure. You and your pet deserve it.
Happy Londoning!
