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Dog Friendly Guide To Southampton

Dogstival returns this year for a special Jubilee celebration. On the 4th and 5th of June Dogstival will be taking place in Broadlands Estate in Romsey.

The event has been taking place for the last four years and has entertained thousands of dogs and their humans from all over the UK. Expect world class dog displays, plenty of activities to get involved with and lots of entertainment to enjoy with your pooch.

If your furry best friend is a dare-dog they’ll love taking part in agility, flyball, hoopers and canicross. They can also test out their barkour skills in the urban playground or try their paws at the Gundog Village.

Every consideration has been taken for the attending dogs. That’s why there’s a 12m dog diving pool to cool off in if your pooch gets warm. 

Just because it’s the perfect day out for dogs doesn’t mean the humans are being neglected. Live music, street performers and new at Dogstival this year, canine comedy with the Barking Mad team. There’ll also be behavioural experts, tips from top vets and the chance to win rosettes in a fun dog show.

As Dogstival is taking place in Southampton this year we’ve put together a guide full of dog friendly places that you and your pooch will love!

Dog Friendly Things To Do In Southampton

Netley Abbey

Netley is the most complete surviving abbey in southern England. Built by Cistercian monks in the 13th Century, the church still stands along with other monastic buildings that were converted into Tudor houses after the Supression. The mediaeval ruin has been an inspiration to many of the romantic writers and poets. Dogs are welcome at Netley Abbey but must be kept on lead. 

Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway

Enjoy an old fashioned train ride with your pooch. Enjoy scenic views as you glide along the tracks. Dogs are welcome everywhere including the cafe. Dogs also travel on the trains completely free of charge.

West Quay Shopping Centre

All well-behaved pooches are welcome at this dog friendly shopping centre. The following shops allow dogs within their stores: 

Three, Apple, Boux Avenue, Build A Bear, Crew Clothing, Dune, EE, Ernest Jones, Essentials, Fat Face, Flying Tiger, Footlocker, The Fragrance Shop, H Samuel, H&M, Hollister, Hotel Chocolat, Jack Wills, Joules, Lego, Levis, Lush, Metro Bank, New Look, O2, Oliver Bonas, Pandora, Paperchase, The Perfume Shop, Phase Eight, Russell & Bromley, Schuh, Skechers, Smiggle, Swarovski, Typo, Victoria’s Secret, Waterstones, The White Company, Zara, Mobile Bitz and Ximi.

Dog Friendly Southampton Hotels

Travelodge 

There are several Travelodges in Southampton including Southampton Central, Eastleigh Central and one on Lodge Road. There is also one in Stoney Cross. Up to 2 dogs are welcome at the cost of £20 per dog.

Forest Park Hotel

Stunningly scenic views, cosy log fires and beautiful walks on the doorstep await you at this hotel. The dog friendly rooms are all ground floor and some provide direct access to the gorgeous garden where your pooch can run around. 

Dogs are welcome to stay for £15 per room per night. Dog friendly rooms come equipped with welcome treats, doggie towels and dog bed. The restaurant is a dog free area but pooches are welcome in the Inn for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

New Park Manor

This luxurious dog friendly hotel was once King Charles II’s favourite hunting lodge. Nestled right in the middle of the New Forest the hotel is almost as lovely as the surroundings themselves. 

The rooms are relaxing and comfortable with cushy four-poster beds. Dogs are welcome to stay for the cost of £10 per night. Your pooch will be welcomed with a comfy dog bed and water bowl. You can also expect a warm welcome from the resident Whippet Daisy. 

Your furry best friend is welcome to join you for dinner in the Rufus Lounge. You can enjoy delicious food from the hotel’s bistro-style menu or even a cream tea in the afternoon.

Woodlands Lodge Hotel

This inclusive hotel is as welcoming to pooches as they are to their owners. Your dog will love this home away from home where they are welcome in both the bar and lounge common areas.

Woodlands Lodge has 7 dog friendly guest rooms on site, 2 of which have direct access to the garden for pooches to run around. Dogs are welcome to stay for a mere £5 per night and are greeted with a welcome pack containing a dog treat, blanket and towel upon arrival.

The grounds of the hotel have direct access to the forest for walks and strolls. 

Alternative Dog Friendly Southampton Accommodations

Denny Wood

This campsite sits in a lovely secluded area of the New Forest, England’s largest ancient woodland. Both an idyllic location for nature lovers and an idyllic, peaceful retreat. 

Fields of open grassland and under-canopy pitches adorn the site. Campers can enjoy a break in nature and forget the stresses and worries of modern life. Pitches are separated by the natural features of the land like ferns, oaks and fallen trees. The pitches are even frequented by the free-roaming ponies of the New Forest. 

There are numerous other campsites which accept dogs in Southampton. Holland’s Wood, Matley Wood and Ashurst Campsite all welcome up to 3 furry companions. 

New Park Farm Cottage

This lovely three bedroom property is located in Brockenhurst in the New Forest National Park. There is enough space for five human guests and one well behaved dog. The spacious cottage has a large garden which is perfect for your pooch to run around in.

This gorgeous cottage contains three bedrooms, two doubles and a single. There is also a well furnished kitchen and a cosy living area equipped with a woodburning stove.

Brockenhurst has earned the title of “Britain’s Most Beautiful Place To Live”. The appeal is obvious as you are close to the heart of the forest while just a short drive away from the beach.

Other nearby dog friendly stays include Wimborne Cottage, sleeping up to 7 humans and 2 dogs.

Southampton Hometel

This modern accommodation is perfect for paws of all shapes and sizes. It has lovely views of Queen’s Park and the harbour and is close to many of the attractions of Southampton.

Each room in the hometel is spacious and comfortable, including well equipped kitchens, king size beds and private bathrooms.

One dog is welcome to stay for the cost of £10 per night but you must inform the hometel beforehand.

Dog Friendly Southampton Pubs

 The Rising Sun

This pub and restaurant welcomes four legged companions with open arms, a bowl of water and some pats and rubs. It’s also right on the shoreline so you can enjoy a lovely stroll with your pooch after a meal and a pint.

The Grapes

This pub is a lovely setting to enjoy with your pooch. Dogs are welcomed inside and given treats, water and lots of attention by the friendly locals! Just a short walk away from Queen’s Park making it an ideal place for a drink after a walk. They even have doggy beer so your pup can enjoy a pint with you.

Brewdog

Brewdog is a favourite among the dog community. Well known for being dog friendly and always offering a warm welcome to four legged visitors. You’ll find everything you need on arrival including water bowls, dog treats and even a dedicated doggy menu. They even often hold events specifically for dogs!

Other great dog friendly pubs in the area include The Stable, Dancing Man Brewery and The Pilgrim Inn.

Dog Friendly Southampton Cafes

Santo Lounge

Santo Lounge always extends a warm welcome to furry friends. Your pooch will receive fresh water in a bowl on arrival. The menu at Santo Lounge is extensive with a great variety of food and drinks.

Robins Nest Emporium

You and your pooch can enjoy a lovely afternoon in this quaint coffee shop. Alongside the lovely dog friendly cafe is an antiques shop to find hidden gems for your home.

No. 329 Coffee House

This friendly, family run coffee shop in Shirley serves homemade cakes, sandwiches and salads. Dogs are welcome to join the fun and the cafe even serves speciality cocktails in the evenings!

Dog Friendly Southampton Walks

Southampton has some great scenic walks to enjoy with your dog:

Lakeside Country Park

Enjoy a stroll around 22 hectares of woodlands, wet meadows and lakes. There is a range of wildlife including insects, birds, bats, foxes and deers. The perfect spot for a picnic, a day’s fishing or just an escape from the hustle and bustle.

Royal Victoria Country Park

This site was the home of the Royal Victoria Hospital from 1863-1966. The park comprises 200 acres of woodland and grassy parkland, there’s even a small shingle beach. There are fantastic views out across the waters of Southampton.

Itchen Valley Country Park

Set within 440 acres of stunning water meadows, woodlands and grass meadows. The idyllic spot beside the River Itchen has received ten Green Flag Awards.

As you can see, Southampton is one of the most dog friendly spots in the UK! 

It makes sense that Dogstival is being held there this year. Don’t miss out on the coolest dog show in town or the most tail wagging weekend on the calendar! 

Get your tickets for Dogstival here.

For more dog friendly city guides click here.

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