We recently embarked on a wonderful Pet Friendly Vacation in Bristol, UK. This city is truly a gem for those of us who cannot bear to leave our furry companions behind. Bristol is vibrant and diverse. It offers a mix of industrial heritage and incredible street art.
We found that the city has a unique vibe that welcomes both humans and hounds with open arms. A city of color? Absolutely. A city of history? Without a doubt.
First of all, let us talk about the atmosphere. Bristol is a former port city that people have revitalized in recent years. You will find hundreds of beautiful parks and green spaces here. In fact, the city is home to over 400 parks and gardens.
This makes it a pawfect spot for a city break with a dog in tow. During our stay, we learned that the local community really cares about accessible nature. One study even mentions how researchers use complex math to plan where parks should go to make sure everyone can reach them.
They look at things like population density and social deprivation to decide where to invest. Therefore, when you walk through a Bristol park, you see the result of a lot of careful thought.
Getting Around: Paws on Public Transport
We did not always want to use our car. We wondered if we could take our dog on the bus. Cheers drive!. That is what locals say to the bus driver. We found out that you can take dogs on the Metrobus. Many owners use the bus with their pets every day.
It is usually drama-free. First Bus operates most routes in Bristol. Their rules say that only one dog or small animal may be carried per passenger. However, it is at the discretion of the bus driver. Your dog must be on a lead. They must not sit on the seats.
Additionally, if your dog is likely to be dangerous, it must wear a muzzle. Plus, most of the time, the dog does not even need a ticket.
We also tried the train. Dogs are allowed on regular trains across the UK. A solo passenger can even travel with two pets free of charge. We noticed that some ticket people even have treats for the pups!. This made our dog very happy. Similarly, many taxis in Bristol allow pets.
You should always ask the taxi company before you book. Some companies have pet-loving drivers who will send a specific car for you. We recommend you bring a large blanket for your pet to sit on in the taxi. This keeps the fur off the seats. Therefore, getting around the city is quite simple.
Where to Stay: Bristol Hotels and Stays
We spent a lot of time looking at bristol hotels through booking com bristol. We wanted a place that felt special. First of all, we looked at the hotel du vin bristol in the Old City. This hotel is a converted 18th-century sugar warehouse. It is a very cool spot. They allow sensible pooches over the age of one in specific rooms. They charge £25 per night for one dog or £40 for two. They even provide a doggie bed and bowl. However, you must keep your dog away from the bistro and lounge where food is served.
Later, we explored the rodney hotel bristol. This hotel is part of a line of grand Georgian buildings in Clifton Village. It is just around the corner from the famous bridge. The Clifton Hotels Group, which owns The Rodney, is very happy to welcome hounds.
On top of that, they provide bowls, blankets, and treats. If you are looking for other options, you might check a travelodge bristol or a premier inn bristol. While we did not stay there this time, they are often known as travelodge dog friendly spots for travelers on a budget.
Plus, Bristol has 23 pet-friendly vacation rentals if you want more space. We saw a 3-bedroom barn called the Old Stables where dogs of any size stay for no extra fee!
If you want to feel like royalty, you should consider Thornbury Castle. They welcome well-behaved dogs in selected bedchambers and even the Tudor gardens. They charge a surcharge for extra housekeeping, but the lavish rooms are worth it.
For a more modern vibe, the Moxy Bristol is a great choice. They allow one dog up to 15kg for £15 per night. Guests say dogs can even join you in the dining area there. Additionally, the ibis Bristol Temple Meads is very convenient and charges only £10 per pet.
Iconic Sights: The Bridge and Beyond
A visit to Bristol is not complete without seeing the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Isambard Kingdom Brunel designed this amazing structure.
It took about 40 years to build. We walked across it with our dog. Pedestrians can cross for free. You must keep your dog on a lead, but the walkway is very secure. The views of the Avon Gorge are stunning.
After the bridge, we went to the Clifton Observatory. You can get a great view of the bridge from here. You can even take your dog inside the observatory!. However, you cannot take your dog down into Giant’s Cave. We sat on the terrace of the cafe there instead. Additionally, we discovered that the lawn nearby was once an Iron Age hillfort called Clifton Camp.
Gradually, we made our way to Bristol Cathedral in the city center. We were surprised to find that dogs are welcome inside!. A staff member told us they believe dogs have always been allowed. Your pet must be well-behaved and on a lead.
Inside, we saw a stone carving called the Harrowing of Hell that dates back to the year 1020. We also visited an exhibit about the slave economy. It was a very sobering experience. Plus, the Lord Mayor’s Chapel nearby also allows well-behaved dogs on certain days.
The Art Scene: Hunting for Banksy
Bristol is the home of the artist Banksy. Therefore, it is a top city for street art. We took a street art walking tour with our dog. You can follow a self-guided tour or join a group. Bristol Street Art Tours welcomes dogs on their two-hour guided walks. We saw several famous works.
Well Hung Lover. The Mild Mild West. The Girl with the Pierced Eardrum. These are all pinned on Google Maps. On top of that, we learned about Upfest, which is Europe’s largest street art festival. It happens in Southville and Bedminster around May or June.
It is mostly dog-friendly as you walk down North Street to see art being made on buildings. However, dogs usually cannot go into the inside areas during the festival.
Outdoor Adventures: Walkies and the Walk Fest
If you love walking, you must visit during the Bristol Walk Fest. This month-long celebration features over 200 walks and events. There are options for all ages and abilities. Many of the walks are FREE.
We saw groups of all kinds out enjoying the city. We noticed symbols in the guide that show which walks are “Dogs on leads welcome“. Some walks are easy and flat, while others are challenging over mixed terrain.
We particularly enjoyed the Harbourside Walk. It is a loop of about 2.65 miles. It starts and ends at Queen Square. Dogs are allowed along the whole walk.
We saw the Underfall Yard, which is an old Victorian workshop. We also saw the SS Great Britain from the outside. Only assistance dogs can go inside the ship or the M Shed museum.
Our favorite parks included:
- Ashton Court Estate: This is a huge space of 850 acres. It is just over the bridge. There is a dog-friendly cafe in the old stables.
- The Downs: This area is 440 acres. It is great for a picnic or a game of fetch. There is a cafe near the water tower with outdoor seating and water bowls.
- Leigh Woods: This nature reserve has beautiful views of the gorge. Some paths are buggy-friendly. Beware of the Red Devon cattle that graze there sometimes.
- Oldbury Court and Snuff Mills: This hidden gem has riverside walks and a snack kiosk that sells doggie treats!.
- Eastville Park: It has a lovely lake where you might see kingfishers. There are lots of swimming spots for dogs in the river.
Additionally, if you want a safe spot for your dog to run, Old Down Country Park has a designated exercise area with a mini agility course. Similarly, Sydney Gardens is a walled park where dogs are allowed in all areas. It has a lot of history, like a Georgian reservoir and Roman features.
Dining Out: Dog Friendly Restaurants Bristol
Finding dog friendly restaurants bristol was the easiest part of our trip. Bristol is one of the best food destinations in the world. We found that many places love dogs.
- Mud Dock: You can sit on the terrace overlooking the harbour. They even give dogs a welcome drink and snacks!.
- Junction and Gambas: Both are in Wapping Wharf and accept dogs. Junction has a large outdoor terrace.
- The Canteen: This is a community-run vegetarian spot in Stokes Croft. Dogs are allowed inside during the day.
- Society Cafe: They have two locations in the center. Both are dog-friendly and have great artisan coffee.
- Racks: Located in Clifton, they have treats for dogs in the main bar.
- The White Lion Bar: This spot has the best view of the Suspension Bridge. You can sit on the terrace with your pup.
- The Forge & Fern: They even sell Marshfield Scoop dog ice cream!.
- Spirited: You can join tasting events here with your dog by your side. They have a resident pooch named Akira.
Finally, do not forget the pubs. Most of Bristol’s brewery taprooms allow dogs. We liked Wiper and True. If you want a country pub, The Langford is a very dog-friendly 17th-century village pub. They even have rooms where dogs can stay.
Day Trips: Exploring Further Afield
We also took some trips outside the city. First of all, we went to Cheddar Gorge. It is about a 40-minute drive south. The gorge is 400 feet deep and three miles long.
Dogs can join you on the Cheddar Gorge Trail, which is a moderate four-mile hike. We also visited Cheddar Paws Bakery, which is a special bakery just for dogs!. They make their own dog cakes.
Later, we visited Westonbirt Arboretum. It has one of the finest collections of trees in the world. The Silk Wood section is dog-friendly and covers two-thirds of the site. It is beautiful in autumn when the leaves change color. Plus, there is doggy water at the restaurant.
We also took a boat ride. Bristol Ferry Boats are very dog-friendly. They operate a waterbus service. You can hop on and off at different points. Tickets for adults start at £3. Dogs ride for free as long as they are on a short lead.
For a special treat, take the Number Seven Boat Trip to Beese’s Riverside Bar & Garden. It is a wonderful eatery surrounded by countryside.
Finally, we spent a day in Bath Spa. It is only 12 miles east of Bristol. We took the train from Bristol Temple Meads. We walked our dog in front of the Royal Crescent. We also had lunch at The Chequers, which is a dog-friendly gastropub.
Shopping with Your Pooch
We even went shopping! Cabot Circus is a big shopping center in Bristol. Well-behaved dogs are welcome throughout the center. Many shops are dog-friendly too. Look for the paw print sticker in the windows.
You should use the lifts or stairs instead of escalators with your dog. Additionally, North Street in Southville is very dog-friendly. We visited independent shops like Mon Pote and Storysmith. We also went to Roxfords, which is a long-running pet shop on Gloucester Road.
Practical Tips for Pet Owners
It is good to be prepared. Bristol has excellent veterinary care. There are 49 veterinary clinics in the city. They have an average Google rating of 4.7 stars. Across all these clinics, there are over 16,000 reviews.
Emerson’s Green Veterinary Surgery is one of the top-rated spots. Additionally, 13 clinics provide emergency or out-of-hours care. While there is no 24-hour cover in one single local spot, many use Vets Now for support at night.
If your dog needs more exercise than you can give, Bruce’s Doggy Day Care is opening a new center in the Avon Valley in 2025 or 2026. They will offer off-the-lead fun in a safe environment. Plus, they even have a pick-up and drop-off service.
If you are flying into Bristol Airport from outside the UK, you should know the rules for assistance dogs. You must notify the airline at least 48 hours before you travel. You need a pet passport and proof of vaccinations. An Animal Clearance Officer will meet you to check your dog. Therefore, international travel requires a bit of planning.
Numerical Summary of Our Trip
To give you an idea of the scale of things, here are some numbers:
- 200+: The number of walks in the Bristol Walk Fest.
- £50: The value of the gift voucher you can win by taking the Walk Fest survey.
- £19.19: The cost for a group to do the Treasure Hunt Bristol.
- 10,000: The number of steps people take for the Walk Well challenge in May.
- £12: The cost for an adult to do the St. Nicholas Market & Air Raid Shelter Tour.
- 400: The number of parks and gardens in Bristol.
- 850: The number of acres at Ashton Court Estate.
- 440: The number of acres at The Downs.
- 49: The number of veterinary clinics available for your pet’s health.
- £15: The nightly surcharge for a dog at the Artist Residence.
- £10: The nightly surcharge for a dog at the ibis Bristol Temple Meads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bristol, UK dog-friendly?
Yes, it is a very welcoming city for pets. Bristol features over 400 parks and gardens where your dog can run and play. Many local transport options like the Metrobus and Bristol Ferry Boats also allow well-behaved dogs. Additionally, the city offers a wide range of dog friendly restaurants bristol and cafes.
Does Bristol allow dogs?
Bristol certainly does allow dogs in many public spaces and businesses. First of all, dogs are welcome on public buses and trains. On top of that, many iconic landmarks like the Clifton Suspension Bridge and Bristol Cathedral permit leashed pets. Therefore, it is an excellent choice for a pet-friendly trip.
Where can I go on holiday with my dog in the UK?
You should consider a Pet Friendly Vacation in Bristol, UK. It is an ideal spot because it offers a mix of urban street art and vast green estates like Ashton Court. Similarly, nearby areas like Cheddar Gorge and Westonbirt Arboretum are great for day trips.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs?
Bristol is a top contender for the best place to vacation with dogs. It has a high density of green spaces and 49 veterinary clinics to ensure your pet stays healthy. Plus, you can find luxury stays at places like Thornbury Castle where dogs are treated like royalty.
Can dogs go in Bristol Cathedral?
Yes, they can. Staff members believe that dogs have always been allowed inside Bristol Cathedral. Your dog must be well-behaved and kept on a lead at all times while inside. A dog in a holy place? Truly a unique experience.
Can I take my dog to the Bristol Zoo?
No, pet dogs are not allowed at the site of the former Bristol Zoo or inside the information centres near the bridge. This rule helps maintain the safety of the area and any remaining wildlife.
Which UK flights allow dogs?
Flights to and from Bristol Airport allow recognised assistance dogs under the Pet Travel Scheme. Owners must notify the airline at least 48 hours before travel and provide a pet passport and vaccination records. Regular pets are often subject to different airline-specific cargo rules.
Can I take my dog on vacation to England?
Yes, you can take your dog to England by following the Pet Travel Scheme. You must ensure your dog is microchipped and has the correct vaccinations, such as a rabies shot. Bristol is a great starting point for such a trip due to its excellent facilities.
Concluding Words
Our Pet Friendly Vacation in Bristol, UK was a huge success. The city is a perfect blend of urban energy and natural beauty. Whether you are looking for a fancy stay at a hotel du vin bristol or a quiet walk in Leigh Woods, you will find it here.
We loved the freedom of the public transport. We loved the kindness of the cafe owners. Bristol is a city that truly understands that dogs are part of the family.
First of all, plan your walks. Second, book your dog-friendly hotel. Third, enjoy the amazing food scene. You will have a gert lush time!. That is another local phrase which means “very good.” We cannot wait to go back. Bristol has stolen our hearts and our dog’s heart too. Therefore, pack your bags and your treats. Bristol is waiting for you.
On top of that, remember to always check with venues before you visit. Policies can change. Use apps like AllTrails or Go Jauntly to find new paths. Plus, look for the #bristolwalkfest tag on social media to see photos from other walkers. Safe travels to you and your four-legged friends!
