Sykes Holiday Cottages saw bookings to its pet-friendly holiday lets rise 40% last year compared with 2019, driven in part by the increase in dog ownership during the pandemic.
With National Pet Month underway, Sykes has rounded up a selection of its best pet-friendly properties that are suitable for every breed – whether you have a Springer or a Dachshund.
From cottages set in acres of grounds in Devon to dog-walking paradise locations like the Northern Highlands or properties close to North Yorkshire villages ideal for short strolls, there is something for everyone.
Viola Sea – near St Just, Cornwall
Sleeps: Six
Price: Seven nights from £1,283
URL: www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/Cornwall-Boscean/Viola-Sea-1060282.html
Less than a mile away from the coastal town of St Just is Viola Sea. Guests can explore the west coast of Cornwall with their Labradors, making the most of the pet-friendly beaches for their furry friends to splash around on. Upon return, the enclosed garden provides a safe environment for dogs to play, while the kitchen is equipped with top of the range appliances to cook up a homemade meal.
Pine Marten Lodge – Dulnain Bridge near Nethy Bridge, Northern Highlands
Sleeps: Six
Price: Seven nights from £1,641
URL: www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/Moray-Aberdeenshire-The-Coastal-Trail-Broomhill-Ho/Pine-Marten-Lodge-1084022.html
Set in the Cairngorms National Park, Pine Martin Lodge is the perfect accommodation for anyone planning a pet-friendly staycation with a larger dog, such as a Bernese Mountain or a Saint Bernard.
Start your day with a cup of coffee on the balcony, where your four-legged friend can stretch their legs, before venturing out to climb the second highest mountain in Scotland, Ben Macdui. After a long day of exploring, guests can relax in front of the woodburning stove before cosying up on the stylish sofas for a movie night.
Shepherd’s Cottage – Holwick near Middleton-in-Teesdale, County Durham
Sleeps: Five
Price: Seven nights from £356
URL: www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/Lake-District-Cumbria-The-Lake-District-Holwick/Shepherds-Cottage-609.html
Shepherd’s Cottage is located on a working farm in the small hamlet of Holwick – ideal for working dogs like Springer Spaniels. The traditional cottage has something for all guests, with pets able to roam around the garden while their owners enjoy a glass of bubbly on the patio. Visit High Force waterfall for picturesque views of the Durham Dales, or head along the Pennine Way pass for a challenging walk to tire your energetic pet.
St Hilda’s Cottage – Hinderwell, North York Moors
Sleeps: Four
Price: Seven nights from £498
URL: www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/North-York-Moors-Coast-Hinderwell/St-Hildas-Cottage-11927.html
St Hilda’s Cottage is located in Hinderwell in the North Yorkshire Moors and boasts a contemporary feel with its open plan living space. Holidaymakers can enjoy a relaxing stroll around the village of Hinderwell with their pooches in tow or explore the nearby fishing villages of Runswick Bay and Staithes.
Dine alfresco on a warm summer’s evening with a glass of wine and fire up the resident pizza oven for an evening in with loved ones.
Freswick Castle – Freswick near John O’Groats, Scottish Highlands
Sleeps: 12
Price: Seven nights from £2,550
URL: www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/Northern-Highlands-Cairngorms-National-Park-Freswick-Ho/Freswick-Castle-1081194.html
Another pet-friendly property is Freswick Castle, a tower house located in the hamlet of Freswick near John O’ Groats.
There are a range of countryside walks to try right from the doorstep of the property, where dogs that love to run including Collies or Whippets, will be in their element.
With a spacious open plan living area, the castle has comfy furnishings and an open fire for dogs to curl up next to.
To book a break, visit www.sykescottages.co.uk or call 01244 617683.
