Welcome to Cardiff, a city where places are dog friendly and your pooch is going to be welcomed and adored, not just as an extra but as part of your family. The vibrant city is bursting with the most amazing, eclectic array of shops, restaurants, and bars that allow your four-legged friend in.
In the very centre lies the beautiful green of Bute Park, affectionately referred to by many as the green heart of Cardiff. Covering the grand 130 acres, this park hosts views of some of the most beautiful vistas of manicured gardens and serene woodland walks with Cardiff Castle providing the stunning backdrop.
But Cardiff canine adventures don’t end here. Can you imagine a walk through the historic courtyards of Cardiff Castle, or aboard a dog friendly boat in the River Taff? Our guide is your key to unlocking all the dog friendly wonders that Cardiff has to offer. Get ready to explore the best of dog friendly Cardiff with your beloved companion by your side!
Top Dog Walks In Cardiff
Cardiff is a city for the dog lovers! Enjoy the perfect walkies in and around the capital with the most amazing scenery. Here’s some of the best dog walks that the dog friendly capital Cardiff has in store:
Taff Trail – This path stretches all the way from Cardiff Bay to Brecon, with routes and lengths suitable for all abilities. Do an easy 5.5 miles or a more challenging 8 miles, passing through some of Cardiff’s beautiful parks, which include Bute Park and Llandaff Fields.
Cardiff Bay Barrage – This path is flat and 3 miles long, offering wonderful views over the Bay. Set off at the less busy end of Penarth or take in the full loop around the Bay.
Roath Park – A tranquil haven near the city centre, featuring a beautiful lake and vibrant gardens. The flat, easy paths make it perfect for leisurely walks.
Bute Park – Just a stone’s throw from Cardiff Castle, it’s a green oasis in the heart of the city. The park offers a variety of routes, from a short walk around the Millennium Bridge to extensive explorations of its 130 acres.
Cefn Onn Park – This park is located in North Cardiff. It has peaceful woodland paths with a nice stream that’s great for water-loving pups.
Garth Mountain – For panoramic views, head just north of the city. A number of routes take you to its summit; one of the more popular ones is a 5-mile circular walk from Pentyrch.
Dog Friendly Places To Eat
Here, we have rounded up some paws-itively delightful spots to chow down with your furry companion by your side:
AJ’s Coffee House – This place is all about the good stuff – top-notch coffee, tea, and mouthwatering homemade cakes and pastries.
The Pen and Wig – This gastropub really knows how to let in the welcome mat—not just for you but for that little fury buddy, too. Classic British pub grub with a twist awaits.
The Head of Steam – Craft beers, artisan spirits, fantastic food—what more? Your pup’s going to love it here.
The Stable – With quality pizzas, pies, and cider galore, this laid-back spot offers a spacious setting for you and your furry sidekick.
Tiny Rebel – Craft beers, burgers, and a friendly vibe make this spot a winner for both you and your furry mate.
Giardini di Sorrento – Enjoy freshly prepared food in the way of authentic Italian food recreated from the inspiration of the Sorrento Peninsula. Bellissimo!
The Coconut Tree – Sri Lankan flavours tapas style, in an atmosphere that openly welcomes your four-legged friend.
Pieminister – Award-winning pies you and your pup will love, with refreshments including fresh water for your furry mate.
The Botanist Bar & Restaurant – A friendly cocktail bar and restaurant serving up a diverse menu, including brunch and hearty roasts.
Bills – Located in a Grade II listed building, Bills offers European and British cuisine with options for all diets. They’re dog lovers too!
Mowgli’s Street Food – An Indian-style restaurant with a beautiful ambiance and water bowls for your pup.
Fat Hippo – Burgers, fries, and sides that’ll satisfy everyone. Just be sure to book ahead – it’s a popular spot!
Shopping
After breakfast, maybe you’d like to get in a little shopping—after all, Cardiff’s got plenty of places where you can shop with your pooch. Our faves include John Lewis, Seasalt, Fat Face, Vans, Urban Outfitters, and Lush Cosmetics. Even some of the Retro Vintage shops will happily welcome your companions.
Our favourite place to explore in Cardiff with our canine companions, is Cardiff indoor market. Great place to find all kinds of trinkets and treasures. You’ll even find a couple of pet shops!
Dog Friendly Things To Do
Cardiff has a lot to offer you and your fur babies—from boat rides to open-air museums. Here are the best dog friendly things to do in and around Cardiff:
St Fagans: This open-air museum in the outskirts of Cardiff offers a glimpse into Wales’ past with over 40 historic buildings. And the best part? It’s FREE!
Chance and Counters – Board games and a diverse menu – what a combo! You and your pup can enjoy a meal while having a blast.
Dyffryn Gardens and Arboretum: Just a short drive from Cardiff, this National Trust property offers plenty of walking trails for you and your dog to explore.
Cardiff Castle: Located in the heart of Cardiff, this historic castle offers opportunities to learn about Welsh history. You and your dog can explore the castle’s grounds outside.
World of Boats Cardiff Bay: A dog friendly museum with a unique collection of boats from around the world and through the ages.
Cardiff Boat: Set sail and take a trip from Cardiff Bay into Cardiff City Centre. A great way to explore Cardiff with your dog.
Escape Rooms Cardiff: Test your wits in real-life room escape games.
Dog Friendly Bars Cardiff
When it’s time to unwind and enjoy some refreshments, Cardiff has a variety of dog friendly bars where you and your furry friend can relax. Here are some of the top dog friendly bars in the city:
Mocka Lounge: Luxury lounge in the city centre, dog friendly inside and out, with a doggy menu and delicious cocktails.
BrewDog: Leading craft beer spot, very dog friendly with water, treats, and a relaxed vibe.
Kongs: Retro arcade games, ping pong, and craft beer, always welcoming dogs with water bowls.
Daffodil: Dog friendly bar championing local Welsh suppliers, offering a warm atmosphere.
Libertine Cocktail Bar: Table service, board games, and dog friendly cocktails.
Cambrian Tap: Part of Cardiff’s craft beer scene, always welcoming dogs with water and snacks.
Pitch Bar Eatery: Known for cocktails and local grub, dogs are always welcome.
Dog Friendly Places To Stay
Finding the perfect accommodation that welcomes both you and your dog is essential for a memorable visit to Cardiff. Here are some dog friendly places to stay in the city:
The Angel Hotel: Welcomes furry friends of any size for £15 per pooch, per night.
Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel & Spa: Dogs of all sizes are welcome for £20 per pooch, per night.
Voco St David: Luxury stay, dogs are welcome for £30 per room, per night (one dog per room). Parking available for £24 per night.
The Gwaelod y Garth Inn: Offers a dog friendly room for £15 per dog, per night, with a special dog’s dinner on the menu.
Novotel Cardiff Centre: Welcomes up to three dogs for £20 per pet, per night, with dog friendly rooms equipped with a dog bed and bowls.
New House Country Hotel: Escape the city’s hustle and bustle. One dog is welcome for £25 per night, with dog friendly bedrooms and access to the elegant Blue Lounge.
Holiday Inn Express: Dogs are welcome for £15 per pet, per night, close to Cardiff Bay and the city centre. Free Wi-Fi, on-site parking, and breakfast included.
Ibis Cardiff Gate: Budget-friendly and dog friendly, it welcomes dogs of any size for £10 per pet, per night. Free parking and breakfast available.
Travelodge Cardiff: Dogs are welcome for £20 per dog, per stay.
Campanile Hotel Cardiff: Friendly to furry friends and your wallet. Two dogs of any size can stay for £5 per pet, per night, with free on-site parking.
Looking For More Dog Friendly Guides?
Looking for a guide somewhere else? How about Manchester or Liverpool? Alternatively, just across the pond, Bristol has plenty of dog friendly places and our friends at GuDog have shared some great walks for dog owners to enjoy.
So that wraps up our little guide. Are there any dog friendly places in Cardiff you’ve visited which we can add to our website? Leave a reply below or tell us on Instagram Twitter or Facebook.
was looking for a place for lunch in Cardiff but the Stable, you recommend here is in fact in Cheltenham…a bit too far!
shame the city of Cardiff is not very dog friendly.
There is a stable in cardiff as well
Thanks for your recomendation of the Stable, Cardiff being paws friendly. We had a really good evening there with Nelson our Lhasa Apso, he was made a big fuss soon as we walk through the door. Thanks for your listing of dog friendly places In Cardiff. ????????? We hope to visit again soon.
Thanks for your recommendations!!