At the heart of the Lake District, Windermere is one of the UK’s best-loved destinations for dog-friendly holidays. With its glittering lake, charming villages and surrounding fells, it’s a paradise for walkers and their four-legged companions.
Our dog-friendly holiday accommodation in Windermere includes a wide range of stays for couples, solo travellers and families wanting easy access to the Lake District. Traditional cottages are a favourite choice, offering cosy interiors, practical kitchens and enclosed gardens where dogs can relax after lakeside and fell walks. Spacious family houses provide multiple bedrooms, generous living areas and dining space, making them ideal for group holidays that need comfort and good value. Lodges and modern cabins appeal to younger travellers looking for stylish accommodation close to walking routes, water activities and outdoor adventures, often with parking and useful pet-friendly extras such as boot rooms or dog wash areas. Barn conversions and rural retreats bring character, privacy and plenty of outdoor space for children and pets to enjoy. Apartments near the village centre are perfect for shorter stays with shops, cafés and amenities close by. For something different, shepherd’s huts create a cosy countryside escape while keeping Windermere, Bowness and surrounding scenery within easy reach.
Why choose a dog-friendly holiday in Windermere?
Windermere combines spectacular scenery with plenty of pet-friendly things to do. Whether you’re cruising across the lake, hiking up a fell, or relaxing in a pub with a roaring fire, your dog can join in almost every step of the way. And with easy access to nearby Ambleside, Bowness, and Grasmere, there’s always a new walk, café, or attraction to explore.
Best dog-friendly walks in Windermere
From lakeside ambles to fell-top hikes, Windermere is bursting with scenic walks:
- Orrest Head – A short climb with one of the best panoramic views over Lake Windermere – great for families and dogs alike.
- School Knott – A gentle fell walk offering open views without the crowds.
- Loughrigg Fell – A classic Lake District hike, with varied terrain and rewarding views over Windermere and Rydal Water.
- Tarn Hows – A beautiful, accessible circular walk around a wooded tarn, perfect for a relaxed stroll.
- Windermere Lake Shore Path – Flat and easy, this trail runs along parts of the lake, ideal for dogs who like a swim.
Dog-friendly attractions and activities in Windermere
- ⛴️ Windermere Lake Cruises – Dogs are welcome aboard the boats, making it a brilliant way to explore the lake and surrounding villages.
- 🏰 Wray Castle – A National Trust gothic-style castle with extensive grounds where dogs are welcome outside and on many walking trails.
- 🌳 Brockhole on Windermere – This visitor centre has dog-friendly grounds, lakeshore access, and even boat hire that welcomes pups.
- 🚂 Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway – Dogs can join you on this heritage steam train journey through the southern Lakes.
- 🌿 Fell Foot Park – A lovely lakeside park at the southern tip of Windermere, perfect for picnics, paddling and riverside walks.
Types of dog friendly holidays in Windermere:
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