Dog-friendly Scotland
Explore Scotland's dog-friendly destinations for an ideal holiday with your four-legged friend. Whether it's a quaint hotel, cosy cottage, B&B, or a charming country house, find the perfect spot for a short break with your pooch. Discover stunning Scottish landscapes and create lasting memories on your next adventure.
Cruden Bay, Scotland
4.60With its traditional charm, lengthy history, and unbeatable cuisine, the dog-friendly Kilmarnock Arms is perfect for pooches seeking a coastal getaway in Scotland.
£160Price per night fromExplore & book
Price Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Dornoch, ScotlandOsprey Lodge is situated in an elevated position, deep in the Sutherland hills, tucked away down a private track, and enjoying unbelievable views across the surrounding hills and open countryside. This superb, detached solid wood lodge enjoys total peace and privacy, set in 50 hectares of croft land. The accommodation is presented to a very good standard throughout. The delightful open plan living space features a welcoming wood burner in the living area, as well as patio doors that open onto the raised decking, with a private hot tub and sitting-out area. There are two beautifully presented kingsize bedrooms with colour coordinated soft furnishings allowing for a good nights’ sleep. This property is very accessible for wheelchair users, with a level entrance and modern bathroom with a claw-footed bath and accessible wet room walk-in shower.
Situated on a working farm where the friendly cattle and sheep roam freely, this is a haven for wildlife and you may also stumble upon osprey, deer, pine martin, red kites, golden eagles and curlews. Whilst completely private, it is just over 1 mile to the pretty stone village of Rogart which is home to a thriving village pub that serves meals, as well as a shop, post office and railway station. It is ideally located for exploring the whole of the Highlands, with many places of interest within a short drive. Dunrobin Castle, seat of the Duke of Sutherland, with its gardens modelled on Versailles is well worth a visit. Or experience salmon leaping up the famous Falls of Shin, and mountain biking, hill walking, fishing, and various water sports are all available locally. The historic seaside town of Dornoch is just 15 minutes’ drive away, where you can visit the sandy beach and the renowned championship golf course, as well as the 12th-century cathedral that dominates the central square. Beach 17¾ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1½ miles.£216From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Buckie, ScotlandInverspey is a detached bungalow, set in its own grounds, enjoying uninterrupted views across open farmland to the hills and sea beyond. The interior of the cottage has been completely renovated throughout to an exceptionally high standard. The large living/dining room has deep leather sofa suites and a superb cylindrical wood burner set in the corner of the room. Floor-to-ceiling bi-fold doors open onto the large decked area and lawned garden, where there is a barbecue, gas fire pit and outdoor dining furniture. The kitchen is extremely well-equipped, with high quality built-in units. A corridor leads down to the spacious bedrooms, one of which has a zip and link kingsize bed and an en-suite shower room with a large, walk-in shower. The second bedroom has a kingsize bed and a superb en-suite wet room complete with a deep double-ended feature bath. Outside you will find the beautiful garden which extend around the property. A particular feature is a second decked area with outdoor furniture, known as the ’Prosecco deck’, a lovely spot to sit and enjoy the distant sea views whilst planning the next day’s excursion or activity. Inverspey is ideal for couples and families looking for an indulgent and luxurious holiday in a wonderful location.
Inverspey lies on the Spey Bay Trail and on the edge of Spey Bay, a beautiful hamlet that leads directly onto the bay and the River Spey. The immediate area is renowned for its wildlife with the National Scottish Dolphin and Whale Centre just a few yards from the cottage, where you can learn about the amazing bottlenose dolphins and other wildlife that are regularly seen close by, including seals, osprey, minke whale and even rare sea eagles. The centre also runs bat watching tours and the opportunity to explore the UK’s largest surviving ice house. Spey Bay is home to the largest shingle beach in Scotland. There are wonderful walks direct from the cottage along River Spey, renowned for its salmon fishing (permits available locally, in season). The Spey Bay golf course is just a few minutes’ walk away; this lovely coastal links course is open to visitors and there are discounts available for guests, who can also visit the club house, which serves meals and also has a bar. The Malt Whisky Trail is situated over nine locations in Speyside and is well worth a visit. There are numerous sporting activities locally, including sailing, kayaking, fishing, golf, cycling and hill-walking, as well as plenty of interesting places to visit within a short drive. Beach 500 yards. Shop 6 miles, and restaurant 300 yards.£85From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Taynuilt, Scotland 4.75Completely renovated in 2021, this beautiful detached, single-storey holiday cottage enjoys an idyllic location, with Loch Etive to the front and the River Awe directly behind. Extremely well furnished and equipped the property has direct access onto the beach. It boasts stunning views across the sea loch to the mountains beyond from some of the rooms, and lovely views over the garden from the others. There is a well-equipped kitchen and a dining area seating eight guests. The house enjoys significant privacy with its only neighbours being seals, otters and yachts. Point Park is one of the very few properties to truly have a sea frontage, located just 5 metres from Loch Etive’s shore with direct beach access. In all rooms the bed can be made into double beds in all bedrooms if required.
The lovely little town of Taynuilt has a friendly community and offers a village grocery store, a post office, butchers, tea room, hairdressers, doctor’s surgery and a restaurant serving good food. There is also a train station, the line through Taynuilt runs from Glasgow to Oban so you can have a day in the city or head to the islands. Taynuilt’s golf course is just a few minutes’ walk from the cottage and offers 9 holes.
The bustling Victorian town of Oban known as the ‘Gateway to the Highlands’ is just 20 minutes away by carand offers shops, bars, seafood restaurants, a cinema and leisure centre. Whisky lovers can visit the Oban Distillery to learn how it’s all made. Regular boat trips leave the busy harbour bound for the Inner Hebridean Islands, including Mull, Iona and the Treshnish Isles with their comical puffins.
Enjoy leisurely forest walks, horseriding, fishing, sailing, diving and golf, or for the more adventurous, Glen Nevis, one of the Highland’s most famous glens and the location of scenes from Harry Potter and Braveheart, is only a short drive and offers stunning scenery and bracing walks. Explore famous castles, historical sites and mature gardens. Visit Bonawe Iron Works, Cruachan Hollow Mountain or the Inveraray Jail. The abundant wildlife includes porpoises, dolphins, basking sharks, otters, deer and a wealth of seabirds. Glencoe and Fort William are easily accessible by car and offer popular climbing, skiing and mountain biking. All in all this is an ideal base for enjoying the pleasures of the great outdoors or just savouring the spectacular scenery of the Western Highlands. Shop and pub 1 mile.£158From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Thurso, Scotland 5.00This attractive ground floor holiday apartment forms part of a stone cottage situated in the village of Castletown which is on the North Coast 500. Its high ceilings, original wooden shutters and cottage garden (grassed area outside the main garden provides space for dogs’ exercise) all add to its charm. Four miles of sandy beach adjoins the fishing harbour 800 yards from the property. Sea angling and loch fishing are available. Known for its unspoilt beaches and wide variety of wildlife and, at certain times of year, the Northern Lights are visible. Central to many surfing locations, golf courses, fishing and the Castle of Mey (8 miles). Take a day-trip to the Orkney Isles. An all weather short mat bowling green is available for guests to use. Shop, pub and restaurant 200 yards.£38From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Ballindalloch, Scotland 4.00Welcome to Honey Cottage, your perfect holiday escape in the charming village of Auchnarrow, nestled in the heart of the stunning Highlands. With breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and a plethora of outdoor adventures waiting to be explored, your stay at Honey Cottage promises an unforgettable experience in this idyllic Scottish destination.
Auchnarrow is a tranquil haven for nature enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. The village is surrounded by majestic mountains, crystal-clear lochs, and dense forests, making it a haven for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a leisurely stroll, the Highlands have something for everyone. The nearby Cairngorms National Park offers a multitude of hiking trails, including the famous Speyside Way, which winds its way through the picturesque Spey Valley.
For those with a penchant for adventure, the Highlands offer a wealth of exciting activities. The River Spey, renowned for its salmon fishing, presents an opportunity to cast your line and experience the thrill of angling. Or perhaps you’d prefer to explore the region’s many whiskey distilleries, savouring the fine Scotch whisky for which the Highlands are celebrated. If you’re seeking a deeper connection with Scotland’s history and culture, the Highlands will not disappoint. Visit historic castles, such as Ballindalloch Castle and Cawdor Castle, to step back in time and learn about the region’s fascinating past. And don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the local Highland games, where you can witness traditional sports, enjoy Scottish music, and taste regional delicacies.
The village of Auchnarrow itself is a quaint gem with friendly locals and a warm atmosphere. Its traditional charm is perfectly complemented by its proximity to the natural wonders of the Highlands, making it an ideal base for your Highland adventure. Discover the enchanting beauty and captivating experiences that Auchnarrow and the Highlands have to offer when you make Honey Cottage your home away from home. Your unforgettable journey awaits in this picturesque corner of Scotland.£62From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Ballater, Scotland 5.00These two, detached holiday properties are located in the heart of Ballater, within 100 yards of Ballater village green, restaurants, cafés, take-aways and shops, many of which feature the Royal ’By Appointment’ coats of arms. The Coyles (ref UK31466) is an impressive granite Victorian merchant’s house, with all the lovely high ceilings and details you would expect from a period property. Ideal for larger gatherings, whether enjoying a special birthday or a relaxing get together with friends, with plenty of living space and very good amenities throughout to ensure a memorable and convivial holiday. On two levels, it offers a high standard of comfort throughout and is a great choice at any time of the year. Built in 1888 using local granite, pitch pine and slate, it’s a true Victorian gem. It has its own enclosed garden and grounds, and enjoys lovely rural views to the south to Craig Coilleach. Quiet and secluded, the gardens are largely laid to lawn with a variety of mature trees and several flower borders with a variety of shrubs. There is a handy shed for bike and kayak storage, and for outdoor entertainment there is a paved patio area, with outdoor seating and barbecue. The Coyles Cottage (ref SBH) has its own garden and grounds and is well equipped throughout with a lovely sunny conservatory, and benefits from triple glazing and central heating throughout, affording year-round comfort.
Ballater sits in the heart of majestic Royal Deeside and is also located in the Cairngorms National Park, making it one of Scotland’s most scenic visitor spots. It boasts cosy cafés, quality restaurants, excellent shopping and great links to outdoor adventure, including hiking, climbing and skiing. Golf can be played in the beautiful surroundings of the 18-hole Ballater golf club and fishing is available, with the appropriate permits, on the River Dee. Ballater has many links to the Royal family and historic castles nearby include Balmoral, Crathes and Craigievar. The Grampians offer wonderful hill walking and wildlife, and the surrounding area of Deeside is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Leisurely walks abound on the banks of the River Dee or within a few miles there’s great walking at Burn O Vat, Lochnagar and Loch Muick.
Deeside is a haven for the outdoor enthusiast with a wide and varied range of sporting activities. The area has excellent hill walking and on/off road cycling facilities and the ski centres at Aviemore, Glenshee and the Lecht are within a short travelling distance. For the sportsman, the River Dee is one of the most popular salmon rivers in Scotland and the River Don is famous for its trout. Deer stalking and grouse shooting can be arranged in the locality. Relatively central for interesting and varied days out, the city of Aberdeen can be reached in around an hour, with Dundee, Perth and Inverness all accessible within 2 hours’ drive through spectacular scenery. Shop, pub and restaurant 100 yards.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 13 guests.£114From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Ruthven, Scotland 5.00Set on a working arable and cattle farm, within the owner’s 2000-acre estate in the Vale of Strathmore, these four welcoming and spacious holiday cottages have been restored to a very high standard. The most recent addition to the collection, Kingfisher Cottage (UK38211) is a renovated, detached, single-storey luxury cottage, tucked way down a farm track. With two stylish bedrooms and beautiful quality furnishings throughout, the high ceilinged open plan living room/kitchen features an eyecatching wood burner flanked by full length picture windows, making the most of the view for the ultimate relaxing experience. Islabank Farmhouse (ref SAAP) is a traditional, characterful, comfortable farmhouse which is ideal for families. Curlew Cottage (ref SYYJ) is a charming, beautifully converted, detached, single-storey property and a haven for wildlife. Still part of the farm but located 4 miles away is Osprey Cottage (ref UZQ), a delightful, light and sunny, single-storey detached cottage.
Set amongst beautiful farmland and fruit-growing country, they make an excellent choice for relaxing breaks in the heart of rural Perthshire. The estate makes an ideal base for exploring central Scotland, Edinburgh, Perth, St Andrews and the Highlands. Glamis Castle is a few miles away. Outdoor activities (golf, skiing, fishing, riding, cycling) are readily available. Shops and pub 3 miles.
Kingfisher Cottage (UK38211), Islabank Farmhouse (SAAP), Curlew Cottage (SYYJ) and Osprey Cottage (UZQ, 4 miles away) can be booked together to accommodate up to 16 guests.£109From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Lochgilphead, ScotlandEnjoying lovely views and sunsets over Loch Sween and Jura, Cruinn (ref URW) and Moy ( ref UXU) are comfortable holiday cottages on the owner’s working farm. Cruinn stands beside natural woodland, and Moy is situated within a wooded glade and offers opportunities to watch deer from the windows or explore the seashore where seals and otters may be spotted playing. This secluded peninsula abounds with birds, flowers and wildlife, with seals, otters, deer and badgers. There are several sandy beaches and opportunities for walking, cycling, riding and boating. Ancient Castle Sween, Kilmartin Glen and the ruined chapels at Kilmory and Keills add archaeological interest. There are opportunities to view the beavers in Knapdale Forest or visit Taynuish Nature Reserve. Lochgilphead (16 miles) offers shops, restaurants, a golf course and an indoor swimming-pool, while a seafood meal can be enjoyed at picturesque Tayvallich or Crinan. Shops 16 miles.
Cruinn (URW) and Moy (UXU) can be booked together to accommodate up to 8 guests.£68From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Oban, Scotland"Stunning locations in breathtaking scenery..."
In a magnificent setting by the sea, Ardmaddy Castle sits in its own bay with unrivalled views over Seil Sound and the world famous local Slate Islands, designated one of Scotland’s National Scenic Areas. Graded ‘4 Star’ by the Scottish Tourist Board, these four cottages (SBZ, SRW and SRY) and Caddleton Farmhouse (UNP) are set in secluded, peaceful locations around the estate and offer an ideal base for exploring this stunning part of the West Coast of Scotland.
Reached via an unmetalled road and gloriously situated at the water’s edge, Craiguillean (SRW) is a traditional property which has its own mooring and jetty overlooking Seil Island. This stone built, single storey cottage was originally a ferryman’s cottage but has been modernised and extended to provide spacious and comfortable accommodation to Visit Scotland 4 star standard. The large sitting room/dining room is spacious and overlooks the sea.
The castle’s spectacular gardens are open all year round through Scotland’s Gardens Scheme and are a delight for gardening enthusiasts. The area is renowned for its abundant wildlife with porpoise, dolphins, basking sharks, otters, deer, eagles and a wealth of seabirds often seen. Sailing, rowing and motor boats are all available for guests to hire, and there is free fishing on Ardmaddy’s stocked hill loch. Guests can also use the castle’s tennis court.
The bustling harbour town of Oban known as the ‘Gateway to the Islands’ is only 12 miles away and has wonderful seafood restaurants, shops and bars. From Oban there are boat trips to the Inner Hebridean Isles, including Mull, Iona, Staffa, Colonsay and Tiree. For the outdoor enthusiast, local activities include horse riding, coasteering, canyoning, canoeing, sailing, diving and golf. Fort William and Glencoe are a short drive away offering very popular climbing and skiing. Explore beautiful gardens and ruined castles in an area rich in historical legacy or take a leisurely walk or cycle along one of the many forest tracks. Visit Bonawe Iron Works, Cruachan Hollow Mountain, the Sealife Centre and Inveraray Jail. Or relax and enjoy the unspoilt natural beauty surrounding the cottages at Ardmaddy. Shops 12 miles, pub/restaurant 2½ miles.£115From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
