Grab your lead and head for the door... we've rounded up some of the best dog walks in Northern Ireland as well as a few ofthe best places for you and your four-legged friend to bed down for the night.
Let loose along the Causeway Coastal Route
The Antrim Cliff Path to Dunseverick Castle is part of the longerCauseway Coast Way. This 5-mile section of coast features some spectacular cliff landscape passing above a series of coves and the sea views are simply to die for.
There are some spectacular beaches along the coast, so you’re never too far from a mile or two of sand stretching out into the distance. What dog wouldn’t love belting along the golden sands of Benone or Downhill, or you could really wear them out with a run along the strand at Portstewart where even a greyhound will be out of puff by the end.
There’s no shortage of dog-friendly places to stay either. Ashlea House (3*) is a self-catering bungalow just five minutes from the three Portrush beaches. Also in Portrush, you’ll always find a welcome for pooch in the pet-friendly rooms at the Inn on the Coast (3*).
Ballycastle’s Marine Hotel (3*) always has a welcome basket of treats for your best friend. While in Ballintoy, near Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the Fullerton Arms (4*) has been welcoming happy pet owners forever.
A little further inland, the Lodge Hotel in Coleraine (3*) is a warm dog-friendly haven to base yourselves, while in Bushmills, home of the famous whiskey and its distillery, your bestie will feel right at home in the award-winning Ballyness Caravan Park (5*).
Lakelands and forest walks to explore together in County Fermanagh
Part of the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, Big Dog Forest Walk is a beautiful short walk that will allow you and your four-legged friend to explore some of County Fermanagh's best upland landscapes.
For a more easy-going stroll, you can enjoy a dander around the grounds of Florence Court, the former home to the Cole family, the Earls of Enniskillen. This magnificent National Trust estate is surrounded by a large area of parkland, garden and woodland, with breath-taking views to Benaughlin and the Cuilcagh Mountains!
With all that walking around the lakes, through the forests and up the mountains of Fermanagh, you and your pooch will need somewhere to rest. There’s no shortage of choices here.
You’ll find pet-friendly hotel rooms and self-catering cottages at (4*) and if Lusty Beg Island Resort and Spa isn’t the loveliest piece of private island heaven for you and doggy, then nothing is.
Make time and space for the Mournes
The Mourne Mountains are a walker's paradise, with stunning walks to suit all abilities and all sorts of human and canine stamina reserves.
Under the gaze of Northern Ireland's highest mountain peak, Slieve Donard, you can discover the Mourne Mountains by foot with your doggy friend by your side. Dominated by a compact ring of 12 mountains rising above 2000ft or 600m, there are walks to suit everyone.
There is also a section of the Mourne Way Walk as an option, part of a 26-mile off-road walk traversing the foothills from Newcastle to Rostrevor. This route provides amazing views of the impressive Mourne Mountains, the valleys and the historic Mourne Wall which was built to keep livestock from wandering.
Alternatively, enjoy a walk along Murlough Beach, complete with a wide sandy beach and ancient sand dunes - perfect for a stroll with your pooch!
You and your dog will just love some of the dog-friendly places to stay here in County Down.
You and pooch will feel right at home in any of the five Kribben Cottages (4*), nestled in picturesque Annalong. Or maybe Dunhill Cottage near the historic Georgian town of Royal Hillsborough will become you and your doggy’s home from home.
There’s another chance to get up close to nature in the idyllic retreat of The Byre in Dromore, while in Downpatrick, Dunnanelly Country House (4*) has cosy kennels for your best friend.
If that selection of walks and accommodation isn’t quite enough to whet your appetite and get tails wagging then just start looking around and exploring all our other dog-friendly articles and recommendations. If it’s an inspirational trip filled with dog-friendly discoveries you’re after, you’d be barking mad not to come to Northern Ireland.
Benone Strand
Beach
Benone Strand, multiple recipient of the European Blue Flag and Seaside Award, is a must-see when visiting the area. With seven miles of golden sand and a magnificent back drop of mountain and cliff scenery and stunning views across to Donegal.
Downhill Beach
Beach
Downhill is a golden sandy beach stretching from Downhill Cliffs in the east towards Magilligan Point. It's overlooked by one of Northern Ireland's leading landmarks, Mussenden Temple, and benefits from classic views of the Donegal Coast and beyond.
Portstewart Strand and Barmouth
The National Trust
Between Portstewart and the mouth of the River Bann lies the golden sands and domineering sand dunes of Portrush Strand Beach. This area of natural beauty and of scientific interest is owned and managed by the National Trust.
Ashlea Bungalow
Self-Catering
This spacious detached 4 bedroom chalet bungalow (N.I.T.B. 3 Star) with a large garden is located on the periphery of and overlooking Portrush. Situated along with a cluster of purpose built holiday cottages in a beautiful country setting.
Inn on the Coast
Hotel
Inn on the Coast Portrush, situated on the Coast Road, between Portrush and Portstewart. Ideal base for visiting the Giant's Causeway. Excellent golf courses nearby including Royal Portrush, Portstewart and Castlerock. We are a pet friendly hotel.
Marine Hotel Ballycastle
Hotel
Ideally located between the Glens of Antrim and the Causeway Coast, the Marine Hotel lies only 2 minutes from the beach and 2 minutes from the ferry terminal to Rathlin Island. The hotel has all conveniences including free WiFi throughout.
Fullerton Arms
Guest House
A favourite stop off for tourists and locals alike. You'll find a tasty selection of food and drinks, stunning bedrooms, friendly staff, a relaxed atmosphere and handy tips on exploring the nearby area.
Lodge Hotel
Hotel
Award-winning hotel situated fifteen minutes walk from the busy shopping town of Coleraine. The hotel offers 56 guest rooms, hair & beauty salons and excellent cuisine using the finest local ingredients. The perfect location to relax and unwind.
Ballyness Caravan Park
Camping & Caravan Site
A multi award winning park on the North Coast at Bushmills, Ballyness Caravan Park has 50 fully serviced hard stand touring pitches for both touring caravans and motorhomes.
Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark
Forest Parks
Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark is located in the rugged mountainous uplands and the gentle rolling lowlands of Counties Fermanagh and Cavan, stretching from the northern shores of Lower Lough Erne in County Fermanagh to the southern shores of Lough Oughter in County Cavan.
Florence Court
The National Trust
Florence Court is a truly welcoming home. The house, formerly the home of the Cole family, Earls of Enniskillen, is surrounded by a large area of parkland, garden and woodland, with breathtaking views to Benaughlin and the Cuilcagh Mountains. You can enjoy glorious walks around the grounds which include a pretty walled garden, holiday cottage, sawmill and icehouse. In the gardens you will find the famous Florence Court Yew - reputedly the 'parent' of all Irish yew trees.
Hotel
The four star Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel is idyllically set on the shores of scenic Lough Erne, bordered by private grounds and gardens, yet only one kilometre from the historic Island town of Enniskillen.
Courtyard Rooms at Lusty Beg
Guest Accommodation
What looks like a little row of cosy terraced houses hosts all of our Courtyard Bedrooms. Each house is uniquely structured to contain 3 to 4 individual courtyard bedrooms. Each are decorated in a true “Lusty Beg” style encapsulating the traditional comforts you would expect from a hotel. Our Courtyard rooms are made up of both Classic and Superior rooms.
Kribben Cottages - Crannoge Cottage
Self-Catering
A cluster of 5 luxury cottages nestled against the magnificent back drop of the Mourne Mountains in a rural picturesque setting close to the bustling seaside town of Newcastle. Cranogue is a 2 bedroom cottage with 1 super king sized bed and 2 ...
Dunhill Cottage
Bed & Breakfast
This family run bed and breakfast, beside adjoining family farm offers the very best in luxury accommodation. Only a ten minute walk from the picturesque Georgian village of Royal Hillsborough. Located off the main A1 Belfast/Dublin Road. Pet Friendly.
The Byre
Self-Catering
The Byre consists of a Hallway, Lounge with old beams, a Wood Burning Stove and an Integrated Kitchen with fridge and cooker. A door leads to a separate Bedroom with a Kingsize Bed. The separate Bathroom has a free standing Bath. Plenty of storage.
Dunnanelly Country House
Bed & Breakfast
Dunnanelly Country House is a haven of peace and tranquility in the drumlins of County Down, with stunning views of the Mourne Mountains and close to all the attractions around Downpatrick and Strangford Lough, yet less than 30 minutes from Belfast.
FAQs
Where are dogs allowed in Death Valley? ›
Pets are welcome in developed areas; essentially wherever a car can go. Pets are not permitted on trails (this includes the boardwalks at Badwater and Salt Creek and paved trails such as Zabriskie Point and Harmony Borax Works) or in Wilderness.
What is a dog friendly office? ›Companies who have a pet-friendly office space report that their workers are more likely to collaborate and be happy at work. Many companies report increased collaboration and cohesion among employees when they allow their dog owners to have their dogs to roam freely in the office.
Where are dogs allowed in Yellowstone? ›Pets are allowed in public areas, parking lots and within 100 feet of any road. They must be on a leash that is not longer than 6 feet in length at all times. Visitors are not allowed to tie their pet to trees or other objects and leave them unattended. Pet kennels cannot be left outside of vehicles.
Can you drive through Yellowstone with a dog? ›Pets are limited to travel in Yellowstone National Park within your car, at a front country campground or within 100 feet of roads and parking lots. They must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet and owners must clean up and dispose of all pet waste. Pets are never to be left unattended outside.
Are dog allowed in Death Valley? ›Pets are allowed in the park, but only in developed areas such as campgrounds and along roads. Included in park entry fee. It is difficult to travel with a pet in Death Valley National Park if you plan to spend time away from your vehicle.
Can dogs go in Lava River cave? ›Allowed but not preferred. It's rough terrain and totally dark so it's not the best outing for your best friend.
Are dogs OK when you go to work? ›Yes, but the amount of time you can depends on the dog. The general rule of thumb is not to leave your dog alone for more than six hours, but it's even less for puppies or senior dogs.
Can dogs be in Hobby Lobby? ›Hobby Lobby is pet-friendly. Bring Fido to wander around the aisles of craft supplies and items for your household. Dog owners are reminded to keep their pups on a leash. Hobby Lobby is open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 8pm.
Can a working person keep a dog? ›So you can certainly have a dog and work full time, but there are some things you need to consider, especially at the beginning when your dog or puppy is still getting adjusted to their new home.
Are dogs allowed grand tetons? ›Pets are allowed in Grand Teton National Park, but they must be restrained at all times and are not permitted on hiking trails, inside visitor centers or other facilities. A good rule of thumb is that a pet may go anywhere a car may go: roads and road shoulders, campgrounds and picnic areas, parking lots, etc.
Is Yosemite dog friendly? ›
When visiting Yosemite, leashed dogs are allowed on most fully paved roads, sidewalks, parking areas and bicycle paths unless there is a sign that specifically forbids them.
Can you take a dog to see Old Faithful? ›Treat Yourselves to Views of Old Faithful
While dogs are not allowed on the boardwalks or trails for safety reasons (hydrothermal features are near boiling point), the geyser puts on a spectacular show sending plumes of water as much as 184-feet in the air, so you'll still get the full experience with your pooch.
Can I bring my pet? Pets are permitted only within two pet walking areas at Mount Rushmore. Please refer to the National Park Service Web site for additional details.
Is Glacier National Park dog friendly? ›Pets are allowed in developed areas such as: in your cars while driving park roads, frontcountry campgrounds, picnic areas, along roads when you are stopped, in parking areas, and in boats on lakes where motorized watercraft are permitted.
Are dogs allowed at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone? ›Pets are not allowed below the canyon rim
On the South Rim, leashed pets are allowed on trails above the rim. Inner canyon trails are narrow, include steep sections, and are well-traveled by humans, mules, and wildlife.
Pets can harass or harm wildlife by making noise or scaring wildlife away. The only trail that allows pets is the Pa'rus Trail, which begins at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Pets are not permitted - on any other trails, wilderness areas, on shuttle buses, or in public buildings in Zion.
Can dogs go to the Oregon Caves? ›Pets are not permitted in the cave, on any hiking trail, in any body of water, or inside of the visitor center or other park facilities.
Are dogs allowed Joshua Tree? ›Alternatively, the park offers many great areas to explore on a pet-friendly visit to Joshua Tree National Park. Leashed pets are allowed as long as they remain within 100 feet (30.5 m) of roads, picnic areas, and campgrounds.
Are dogs allowed in Florida Caverns? ›Pets are permitted in designated areas only. Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and well behaved at all times. Fishing, boating, swimming and fires are allowed in designated areas only. A Florida fishing license may be required.
Can dogs go to Florida Caverns? ›Dogs are allowed at Florida Caverns State Park Campground, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet when outside your vehicle, and are properly cleaned up after. Dogs are allowed at the tent sites, but not in the cabins or buildings. For more information on pet restrictions, please call (850) 482-1228.
Are dogs allowed at cave of the Mounds? ›
Pets are NOT allowed on the grounds. However, we do have free dog kennels available seasonally.
How long can dogs hold their pee? ›Adult dogs that are one year or older should be able to hold their pee in for up to 6-8 hours. However, 8 hours is a bit of a stretch, and ideally, you should not expect your dog to hold their urine for longer than 6 hours.
Can I leave a dog alone for 2 days? ›DON'T stay away too long.
Most experts agree you shouldn't leave your adult dog alone for more than eight to 10 hours, but some dogs (especially ones with small bladders) can't last that long.
Dogs can go for 8 to 10 hours without urinating overnight, while sleeping. However, all dogs need to be taken out after a meal or a drink, upon waking up and after a period of play. Health: Urinary frequency in dogs will vary due to factors such as age, sex, body size and overall health.
Is Home Depot dog friendly? ›Home Depot
This hardware store welcomes your pet. The official Home Depot Twitter Account even posted a picture of a Yorkshire Terrier in one of their famous orange buckets. However, it only allows leashed dogs. If they're unleashed, then you can't take them inside.
Contrary to belief, there is no law that prevents dogs from entering shops, banks or local businesses; so it very much depends on whether the shop owner or branch manager is happy to allow dogs. Why not ask? You may be pleasantly surprised.
Can dogs be on board? ›On-board: On the plane, your small pet dog must remain in the carrier at all times. You cannot remove the animal from the carrier while on the plane. The carrier containing your dog can only go completely under the seat in front of you.
Which dogs can be left alone for 8 hours? ›Dog breeds that can be left alone for long periods include Labrador and Golden Retriever, Beagle, Peekapoo, or Shiba Inu. Naturally, by long-term periods, it's implied that the period is up to 8 hours a day and not more. Of course, you shouldn't forget about adorable mutts.
How do you own a dog when you work full time? ›- Popping home in your breaks;
- Having a friend or neighbor called in;
- Employing a dog walker or puppy sitter to drop by;
- Leaving pup with a friend;
- Doggie daycare.
Jackson is a pet-friendly haven, and your pet will love being able to explore the area with you. When it comes to travel in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, a good rule of thumb is that a pet may go anywhere a car may go (roads, campgrounds, picnic areas) as long as they are on a leash (6ft or less).
Can you sleep in your car at Grand Teton? ›
Please note that sleeping in your car or RV is not permitted within Grand Teton except in individual campsites.
Is Badlands national park dog friendly? ›Pets are permitted in Badlands National Park with some restrictions. Pets must be kept on a leash no more than six feet in length at all times.
Is Bryce Canyon dog friendly? ›Pets are only allowed on paved surfaces, including park roads and campgrounds, the Shared-use Path, paved viewpoints (all viewpoints except Piracy Point), and the 1/2 mile (0.8 km) section of Rim Trail between Sunset and Sunrise Points.
Are dogs allowed in lake Tahoe? ›Your well-behaved, leashed dog is welcome almost anywhere (Forest Order 19-86-99 PDF 347 KB ) within the LTBMU , with the notable exceptions of designated swimming beaches and areas that are restricted for wildlife protection. You must keep your dog on a leash, and pick up after him.
Is Mammoth Cave National Park dog friendly? ›All dogs, including service animals, are allowed throughout the park hiking trail system. Only service animals are able to accompany you into the visitor center and on cave tours. Companion dogs that are used only to provide comfort, or emotional support animals, are not allowed in these areas.
Why are there no dogs in Yellowstone series? ›“I'm quite sure the lack of house pets is deliberate, since a pet would 'soften' the harsh, awkward bare-knuckles interaction between the various family members,” Redditor iheartsev observes. Other Yellowstone die-hards, however, will know that we have seen dogs on the show.
Can dogs walk on Gettysburg battlefield? ›Pets can enjoy Gettysburg too! Pets must be restrained on a leash at all times while in the park. If your dog is a bite risk or can be startled by large crowds, it must be restrained with a proper anti-bite collar and harness. Owners are not allowed to tie or leash dogs to trees, signs or monuments in the park.
Can I walk my dog in the New Forest? ›Dog walking is very popular in the New Forest National Park. It's a great way to enjoy the fresh air and exercise, and local dog walkers are amongst the most passionate supporters of the New Forest.
Can I bring my dog to Dinosaur National Monument? ›Yes, pets are allowed in the monument. However, they are not allowed in public buildings or on many of the hiking trails, on the river, or in the backcountry.
Can you take a dog to Devils Tower? ›Pets are NOT permitted on any park trails or in park buildings. They are allowed in Belle Fourche campground, the parking lot in front of the visitor center, and in the gravel lot adjacent to the ranger station. All pets must be under physical restraint, no more than 6 foot long leash, while in the park.
Can I bring my dog to Crater of Diamonds State park? ›
Can we bring our pets? Your pet is welcome anywhere in the park, except for the gift shop area of the visitor center, the park restaurant, the water park, and the bathhouses. Also, the pet must remain under physical control of the owner at all times.
Can my dog go to Yellowstone National Park? ›Pets must be physically controlled at all times: they must be in a car, in a crate, or on a leash no more than six feet long. Pets are not allowed on boardwalks, hiking trails, in the backcountry, or in thermal areas. Pets may not be left unattended or tied to an object.
Can dogs go to Custer State Park? ›Pets must be on a leash no longer than 10 feet and are not allowed in any park buildings or on designated swim beaches. Please clean up after your pet and do not leave it unattended. Service animals are welcome. Firearms must be unloaded and cased unless during a hunting season with the proper license.
Why are dogs not allowed in Glacier National Park? ›Remember when hiking in Glacier National Park with dogs it's possible you could meet wildlife on the trails, so take precautions. Bears have been known to pursue dogs, which could be dangerous for both you and your pup.
Does Sedona allow dogs? ›Just two hours north of Phoenix, Sedona is famous for its natural beauty. Tucked into a stunning backdrop of red rocks and thick green foliage, it's also a wonderful pet friendly vacation destination!
Are dogs allowed in Yellowstone cabins? ›Pets are permitted free of charge at the Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone and Gray Wolf Inn & Suites, or for a $25 fee at the Holiday Inn West Yellowstone. We hope you and your pet have an enjoyable stay with us! Please see our pet policy for additional information.
Can you bring dogs to arches? ›Activities with pets are very limited at Arches. You may not take a pet on any hiking trails. You may have your pet with you in the campground, and at pullouts along the paved scenic drives. You may walk your pets on roads or in parking lots, but they must be leashed at all times when outside a vehicle.
Can you take dogs to Devil's Den State Park? ›Policy Details. Pets are allowed in the park. Dogs must be on a leash and cleaned up after.
Can I take my dog on a Monument Valley tour? ›We do have pet friendly vehicles . Please be sure to reserve and specify which you prefer. To start the tour, park at the Monument Valley Visitor Center meet us at our tour booth.
Can dogs go on the salt flats? ›Are Dogs Allowed At The Bonneville Salt Flats? YES! As the Bonneville Salt Flats are managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), dogs are welcome on or off leash.
Can you take dogs into Garden of the Gods? ›
Dog Rules For Garden of the Gods Park
Well behaved pets are allowed inside the Visitor and Nature Center with the exception of the indoor dining area and carpeted areas. Well behaved and leashed dogs are allowed on outdoor programs only.
Dogs are only allowed to be off-leash April 1st through September 14th between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and from September 15th through March 31st between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. Click here to read more about dogs on the beach. Commercial business is prohibited on the beach.
Can dogs go to Angel Island? ›Dogs are NOT allowed on the island, service animals excepted. This does not include the use of emotional support animals which are not covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Can dogs go to Blackwater Falls? ›Dogs that love to play in the snow will be at home at Canaan Valley Resort or Blackwater Falls state parks, which typically get more snowfall due to their high elevation. Both parks have a full-service lodge, cabins and campgrounds.
Is Merlin's Cave dog friendly? ›Dogs are allowed on the beach and in Merlin's cave too. South West Coast Path Hundreds of miles of perfectly stunning scenery awaits you and your four-legged friend.
Can I bring my dog to Skywalk Grand canyon? ›Pets are not allowed below the canyon rim
On the South Rim, leashed pets are allowed on trails above the rim.
Yes, pets are allowed in the monument. However, they are not allowed in public buildings or on many of the hiking trails, on the river, or in the backcountry.
Are dogs allowed at Petroglyph National Monument? ›They are welcome throughout Petroglyph National Monument, provided that they are properly identified and on a leash or halter at all times.