Dog Furiendly is supported by our tail-wagging readers. When you buy through affiliate links we may earn an affiliate commission. Click here to find out more.
One of the most important considerations to make when planning a trip or day out with your pooch is transport. Particularly if you don’t drive, how will you and your pooch get to enjoy all these amazing dog friendly destinations? That’s not forgetting long car journeys, which, especially on warmer days can be stressful for your dog.
Luckily there is an alternative ‘route’ that is spacious and comfortable for your pooch while offering some great scenery. It’s the train.
Can Dogs Travel On Trains In Wales?
Dogs can travel on trains in Wales, Transport For Wales allow up to two dogs per passenger to travel with you on the train. However there are a couple of rules you should be mindful of:
- Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times
- Dogs without leads must be held in an enclosed basket, cage or pet carrier
Do I Have To Buy A Train Ticket For My Dog?
You do not have to buy a ticket for your dog. Up to 2 dogs per passenger can travel free of charge. However, it is asked that they do not occupy seats.
What Dog Friendly Destinations In Wales Have Train Stations Nearby?
The perfect destination for a day out with your pooch might be closer than you think. With plenty of stunning locations accessible via train and what’s more? Dogs travel free. Here’s a round up of some of our favourite dog friendly destinations across Wales.
Llandudno
The biggest seaside resort town in Wales. With stunning views of the Irish sea this tourist destination is picture-perfect. The entire area of this north coast town is steeped in history. It is close to the Great Orme, a peninsula inhabited since the Stone Age.
There is also plenty for dogs here including beach walks and a promenade. Easily accessible by train, the station is just a five minute walk from the centre of Llandudno.
Cardiff
Spend some time in Wales’ capital and see all that it has to offer. The train takes you right into the centre of the city, the perfect destination to witness the shops, cuisine, sporting events, history and vibrant music scene that this city has to offer.
Visit Cardiff Castle, one of Wales’s leading heritage attractions and a site of great international significance. Dogs are welcome inside within the Public Square area of the Castle’s outer green.
In addition to the castle, Cardiff is a very dog friendly place and there are numerous great walks to enjoy. The city has many parks that your pooch will love including Bute, Victoria, Heath, Roath, Pontcanna fields and Sophia Gardens.
Cardiff Bay
Covering the entire former dockyards, The Cardiff Bay redevelopment has been one of the largest in Europe. There’s plenty to do around the Bay especially if travelling with kids. There are a myriad of restaurants, a techniquest and the Millennium Centre where you can see cultural displays like music, opera, ballet and literary events.
Mermaid Quay in Cardiff Bay is dog friendly. Many of the bars and eateries have outside seating where dogs are welcome. For walks you won’t find any better than the Cardiff Bay barrage where you can walk over to Penarth.
Swansea
The Gower Peninsular has some of the countries most stunning beaches and lovely coastal walks. Better yet, dogs are welcome on the beaches year round. Swansea is a dogs absolute dream.
Home to the largest indoor market in Wales and with an entire street in the centre dedicated to food places and great bars there’s something for everyone here. The train station is only 20 minutes away from stunning beaches and even closer to the city centre.
Aberystwyth
The Aberystwyth Pier at the southern end of the North Beach was the first to open in Wales in 1865. After a series of storm attacks, it is now a shortened version of its originally constructed length of 242 metres. However it’s still a beautifully scenic spot to take your dog for the day.
The pavilion remains in good condition. This very popular venue has facilities including a pub, nightclub, restaurant, social club, amusement arcade, pizza and ice-cream parlours. All of this is just 8 minutes away from the train station
Anglesey
Renowned for its walking holidays, Anglesey has a 140 mile coastline, part of the 870 mile Wales Coast Path. Along this route expect stunning views, friendly faces and a very happy dog in tow. Just 19 minutes by bus or walk from Holyhead train station.
Culinary delights are all over Anglesey. From simple but delicious ice cream to a freshly prepared seafood platter in a Michelin star restaurant. Your dog can expect warm welcomes in the lovely villages of Beaumaris, Moelfre, Cemaes Bay, Trearddur Bay and Rhosneigr.
Pembrokeshire
The beaches in Pembrokeshire are some of the loveliest in the U.K. Many of these beaches are dog friendly year round. There are many stunning locations where dogs are welcome including Pembroke Castle, Heatherton and the National Botanic Gardens.
Crickhowell
The nearest train station to Crickhowell is Abergavenny, a mere 25 minutes away. An extremely dog friendly place expect to see rolling hills, keen walkers and views that wouldn’t be out of place on a postcard.
Every year a walking festival takes place here, guided walks for all ages and abilities in and around the Black Mountains, part of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
A week of guided walks for all ages and abilities in and around the Black Mountains – part of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
Have You Ever Taken Your Dog On The Train In Wales?
For more great destinations, days out and dog friendly places check out our travel guides.
