A View, a Brew, and Your Dog Too: 7 Dog-Friendly Pubs in the Cotswolds
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With the Cotswold being home to some of the most glorious nature walks, it would be a shame not to take advantage. The cool weather often calls for a lengthy walk to enjoy the frosty scenery, but there's nothing like rounding it off with a refreshing pint by the fireplace at the end.
Because everything's better when you've got your four-legged friend by your side, we've compiled a list of the best dog-friendly spots to visit around the Cotswolds.
The Mousetrap Inn, Bourton on the Water
If you're seeking something more 19th century, The Mousetrap Inn is a perfect location for you to crash in after tiring your legs out. You're greeted with candlelit tables, and a fireplace ready for your furry friend to rest. The pub is family owned and exudes comfort and warmth.
There's a fabulous river walk in the heart of the village, with tea rooms dotted alongside, making it like a step back in time. If you're looking for a big trek, start at Lower Slaughter which'll take you straight to Bourton in roughly 2 hours!
Bourton is also neighboured by Stow-on-the-Wold and Broadway if you fancy exploring.
The Potting Shed, Crudwell
A once popular spot of a certain young Royal couple, The Potting Shed in Crudwell is the epitome of English charm that's praised for its welcoming presence. Not only is it well stocked with delicious meals and drinks for travellers passing through, but dogs are also their priority. Fully equipped with kegs and bowls, they welcome wagging tails as much as walking boots - and they even have free treats!
Although no set routes suitable for dogs nearby, there's plenty of opportunities to make your own stroll. The Fosse Way is close to Crudwell, a famous Roman road which was the first to link Exeter and Lincoln but has since been replaced with modern roads. It's adorned with trees and a well set out path away from traffic, making it a great winter ramble.
The Gardeners Arms, Alderton, near Tewkesbury
Have you ever heard of a pub having their very own doggy menu? The Gardeners Arms near Tewkesbury doesn't just offer a great selection of pub grub for the owners but have their very own range of meals specially for after walkies. This ranges from a bespoke roast to some doggy desserts, all of which are trialled by the pub's own pooch - Teddy!
There's a fantastic 'Severn Ham' Walk which takes approximately 1 hour - enough to work yourself up a winter appetite! Severn Ham is an open space away from the town centre and is naturally flooded regularly by the surrounding River Severn. It was originally the location for the famous gold-cup horse race, which is now in Cheltenham.
The Prince Albert, Stroud
Fancy a steep hill walk? Stroud is renowned for having some fantastic walks that are bound to get your legs working overtime, but all for a good reason. At the end of your meander, you'll end up at The Prince Albert, a pub that's been blessing Stroud for over 20 years. They put on some incredible live events to keep you entertained with your pint, and even have resident pups to keep your own company.
Rodborough common is one of the Cotswold's most enjoyed walks and only takes around an hour - perfect to justify a pint. You'll be able to capture some of Stroud's famous landscapes, all from a brilliant height.
The Bell, Sapperton
Perfect for all seasons, The Bell at Sapperton captures the beauty of the Cotswolds, with their garden that blooms in summer, and in Winter they offer a cosy log fire substitute indoors. Not only do they welcome dogs with open arms, but for those who love the occasional horse ride around the countryside, they even offer equestrian parking!
There's a scenic circular walk in Sapperton that'll set you, your pooch (and your horse!) on the right track for a boozy reward. Starting near St Kenelms Church, it takes you through open countryside along some of the Gloucestershire Wildlife reserves. With only 3.25 miles in total, it's a great way to get some fresh air.
The Black Horse, Cirencester
Ending with an archaic hotspot in the capital of the Cotswolds, the Black Horse is one of Cirencester's treasured sites, and of course, it allows your dog to reap the benefits too. With a menu ready to cater towards any craving, this pub showcases a true English inn that will have your feet warmed and hearts full by the end of it.
Cirencester is home to an array of different treks, meaning you can take your pick of a big winter walk or a short and sweet summer stroll. For those wanting to see some of the town's landmarks, the Bathurst Estate opens its grounds to visitors daily from 8am-5pm (Entrance to the Park is free for local residents who have obtained a pass, and for a small charge for visitors to the area).
The Corinium Hotel, Cirencester
While we're in Cirencester, we have to mention the Corinium Hotel which is tucked away just outside the town centre on Gloucester Street.
This family-run hotel and restaurant has a lovely walled garden and dog-friendly bar - so dog-friendly that you are likely to meet a couple of the owner's own doggies pottering around!.
Cirencester has plenty of local walks in the local parks and surrounding countryside and is a dog friendly town.
Get walking, and get refreshed
So if you're interested in checking out some of these well-loved walks (or just fancy a drink anyway!), get your poo bags ready and head down. If you know of any other prime spots, feel free to let us know!
Last updated: 30 July 2024 - Please note: This blog was first written over a year old and things may have changed since the blog was written.