11 dog-friendly pubs in Dorset
The South West county of Dorset is home to some of the most beautiful countryside in Britain, and boasts over 100 miles of stunning coastline. This makes Dorset a wonderful place for you and your dog to enjoy a well-deserved break. But after all that fresh air and exercise, you might be interested in finding somewhere that offers a pet-friendly pint. Here’s our guide to 11 of the best dog-friendly pubs in Dorset.
1. The Goat and Tricycle
Location: Boscombe, Bournemouth
Address: 27-29, Westhill Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH2 5PF
Why dogs love it: Doggy treats and water are provided
Dogs are always welcome at The Goat and Tricycle. This friendly pub is only 0.6 miles away from Bournemouth Beach, so it’s a perfect place to stop for a drink and some pub food after a long walk with the dog.
Place to stay: 9 Carlton Road is situated within easy reach of Bournemouth town centre and visitor attractions and would be ideal for a larger group holiday.
2. The Black Swan Inn
Location: Swanage
Address: 159 High Street, Swanage, Dorset BH19 2NE
Why dogs love it: They get to meet the pub’s own dog, Pickles
The Black Swan Inn is a Grade II listed, old-fashioned pub with two bars serving a lovingly-selected range of ales, ciders, wines and spirits as well as delicious food. Perfectly situated in the heart of the Purbeck countryside and right at the gateway to the beautiful World Heritage Jurassic Coast. There are two real log fires and delightful secluded gardens.
Place to stay: This nearby Cottage in Dorset is the perfect base to enjoy fantastic coastal walks, historic villages and glorious beaches.
3. Smugglers Inn
Location: Weymouth
Address: Osmington Mills, Weymouth, Dorset DT3 6HF
Why dogs love it: Log fires to snooze in front of
Situated on the cliff tops of the South West Coast Path, just outside the village of Osmington, Smugglers Inn is a traditional English pub with stunning views. There’s a beautiful garden for summer, as well as roaring log fires and oak beams inside for the longer and colder winter nights, the Smugglers can be truly enjoyed all year round.
Place to stay: This Bungalow in Dorset is set in an elevated spot with far reaching views and a private hot tub.
4. Rope And Anchor
Location: Poole
Address: 4 Sarum Street, Poole, BH15 1JW
Why dogs love it: Dog biscuits behind the bar for good dogs
Rope and Anchor is a traditional English pub, set just off Poole Quay, serving quality home cooked food and cask ales in a relaxed atmosphere. Sunday roasts are a speciality and there are plenty of gluten free options. Friday nights are for live music and there’s an outdoor courtyard.
Place to stay: This House in Dorsetis within walking distance of bars and restaurants as well as some amazing sandy beaches.
5. Harbour Inn
Location: Lyme Regis
Address: 23 Marine Parade, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3JF
Why dogs love it: Well behaved pups are welcome in their bar restaurant
Situated on the beachfront, overlooking the Cobb and Lyme Bay, the Harbour Inn is a family owned pub and restaurant. They pride themselves on real, home-cooked food using only the finest ingredients and local produce. Open for lunch, evening and Sunday lunch and they also offer children’s menus.
Place to stay: Wing in Dorsetis a contemporary detached annexe in an elevated position above the popular town
6. Thomas Tripp
Location: Christchurch
Address: 10 Wick Lane, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1HX
Why dogs love it: Four-legged friends are very welcome
Thomas Tripp is a traditional public house located in the centre of the historic town of Christchurch. They offer a warm welcome to all with an open fire, a wide selection of wines, ciders and beers complimented by a simple food and drink menu - seafood is a speciality here. There’s a courtyard garden and a large screen TV showing sports.
Place to stay: Harbour Viewis a ground floor property located in Stanpit, a small former fishing village on the edge of Christchurch harbour.
7. Ilchester Arms
Location: Bridport
Address: Symondsbury, Bridport, Dorset DT6 6HD
Why dogs love it: They stock dog-friendly ice cream
Located just 1.5 miles from the coast, The Ilchester Arms is a picturesque 16th century thatched village pub in West Dorset which enjoys enviable views of the iconic Colmers Hill and surrounding countryside.
Place to stay: This Barn in Dorset is a delightful annexe and would make the perfect choice for a rural romantic getaway.
8. Masons Arms
Location: Branscombe
Address: 3 Myrtle Cottages, Branscombe, Seaton, Devon, EX12 3DJ
Why dogs love it: There’s a dog-friendly beach nearby
You’ll find the award winning, 14th century Masons Arms nestling in the heart of one of Britain’s most picturesque villages. The authentic bar area oozes character with timber frames, low beamed ceilings, pine cladding, whitewashed walls and a huge roaring log fire. The food is carefully prepared by a team of accomplished chefs.
Place to stay: This Pottery Barn is a contemporary conversion boasting homeliness and charm.
9. Bankes Arms
Location: Studland
Address: Manor Road, Studland, Dorset BH19 3AU
Why dogs love it: Well-behaved pets are welcome in the pub and garden all year round.
Bankes Arms Inn is just a stone’s throw from South Beach so is an ideal starting or ending point for some fabulous walks . The pub is also the home of the Isle of Purbeck Brewery which brews five core beers, plus several seasonal ales and cider.
Place to stay: With 5 bedrooms,Cliff Endis the perfect relaxed holiday home to enjoy with children and pets.
10. The Stour Inn
Location: Blandford Forum
Address: 5 Dorchester Hill, Blandford St Mary, Blandford Forum DT11 9LH
Why dogs love it: Well behaved dogs are welcome in the garden but must be kept on a lead.
The Stour Inn is brimming with character, with fireplaces, flagstone floors, and wood panelling. Guests and their dogs can enjoy an alfresco experience in its beautiful award-winning secret garden. The pub offering includes handmade stone baked pizzas, retro basket meals and local ales.
Place to stay: This Cottage in Dorset is perfect for a couple and two small dogs
11. The White Hart
Location: Wimborne
Address: 6 Corn Market, Wimborne BH21 1JL
Why dogs love it: There are usually plenty of fellow dogs here
The White Hart, located in the Corn Market, is one of the oldest buildings in Wimborne. Serving traditional British food, Sunday roasts are a speciality, enjoy lunch from their lovely and spacious beer garden.
Place to stay: Plum Cottage oozes country chic style along with breathtaking views towards the River Stour.
