London is a dog-friendly city with lots for you and your pooch to do.
Having spent the past two years in San Francisco, I was anticipating that London would struggle to match the Bay Area’s dog-friendly attitude.
However, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by London’s openness to dogs. In fact, the dog-friendly culture is rather special. There is an array of pubs and restaurants that welcome canines, unlike the majority of eateries in California.
London has an abundance of parks that welcome dogs, including famous locations such as Hyde Park and Greenwich Park. There’s no shortage of activities to do with my Alaskan Klee Kai in one of the world’s most famous capitals.
Here are eight activities you can do with your dog in London whether you’re visiting for a short trip, a long stay, or even live in the English capital.
The Best Activities for Dogs in London
Primrose Hill
Dogs are welcome in all the Royal Parks and Primrose Hill is no different. I can’t think of a better place to enjoy a picnic outside than on Primrose Hill with a beautiful view of London. You’ll almost certainly make some new furry friends at this famous London location. There’s even a Primrose Hill Festival and Dog Show each year. You and your dog could end up stealing the hearts of Londoners!
GoBoat London
The River Thames is an essential part of London. GoBoat London allows multiple dogs onboard their self-drive boats that travel through Regents Canal around Paddington, Little Venice, and Camden Locks. You’ll be able to explore some of the most colorful parts of London with your dog acting as the boat’s captain. You can bring food and drinks on board too, so neither you nor your dog needs to make any pit stops for lunch.
Related: The Dog Days of Summer: Pet Rules and Restrictions by Country
Tower Bridge exhibition
If you’re not afraid of heights, you may like to try the Tower Bridge experience with your dog. This tourist hotspot provides the chance to experience two 42m-high bridge walkways. Given Tower Bridge’s location, you’ll be able to sample an incredible view of the Shard, London City, London Bridge, and much more. You can also go for a stroll around St Katherine’s Docks afterward where you can check out some impressive barges and sailing boats. There’s a couple of dog-friendly pubs and restaurants in this location, too.
Ride the Emirates Air Line cable car
Still haven’t had enough of heights? Well, the Emirates Air Line cable car is also dog-friendly. You can take the DLR to Royal Victoria before you board the cable car. It’ll take you to Greenwich Peninsula, where you’ll find The O2 (formerly called the Millennium Dome). During the short cable car ride, you’ll get amazing views of The O2, Canary Wharf, and the London landscape.
London's Doggie Beach
If you’ve decided to visit London but are disappointed you won’t get to sample any sandy beaches, don’t fret as London does have some dog-friendly lidos. For example, Ruislip Lido provides a dog beach for canines who fancy a dip on a hot and humid London summer’s day. The 60-acre lake can be found in Zone 6, on the outskirts of London. Once you’re done with your dip, you can also take the Ruislip Lido Railway, which runs through the woods.
Hoi Polloi at Ace Hotel
You’ll want to head down to Shoreditch to check out the Street Art that’s perfect for the Gram! There’s an array of different murals that will make a good centerpiece for a photo with your dog. Once you’ve spent a couple of hours walking around, you’ll be ready to stop for a refreshment. There’s a section of Hoi Polloi at Ace Hotel that’s dog-friendly. You can warm up with a coffee or sip on a cocktail while your dog enjoys some water and attention!
Old Spitalfields Market, Spitalfields
A trip to east London isn’t complete without visiting London’s oldest market at Spitalfields. You can browse the variety of stalls along with your pup. You may even find a vintage accessory for your pooch! Crucially, for those worried about the unpredictable British weather, Spitalfields Market is covered, so you can browse without having to get the umbrella out. There are a lot of food options that you can enjoy when you’re ready to sit down and take a break.
Mayfield Lavender Farm
Our final option is reserved for London visitors between June and September. The Mayfield Lavender Farm is a beautiful 25-acre farm covered in lavender a short bus journey from Coulsdon Town train station. Whether you just want to relax with the aroma of lavender surrounding you or you’ve got one eye on a cool photo opportunity, it’s well worth the trip to the outskirts of London. Mayfield Lavender Farm is dog-friendly, but owners are asked to keep their canines on a leash.
This article appears courtesy of our friends at helloBARK!, created to help pets and their owners enjoy a happy life together. You'll find more great tips for dog-owners at hellobark.com.
