Dog-friendly guide to Keswick

It certainly is a dog’s life in the charming market town of Keswick. It has been awarded the ‘Most Dog-Friendly Town’ in Britain by the Kennel Club three years in a row in their ‘Be Dog Friendly’ awards. Winners are decided by thousands of public votes and the nation has decided that Keswick is the best place to be on holiday if you’re a pooch!

Historic Keswick is nestled between sparkling Derwentwater lake and rugged mountains. The centre is full of restaurants, cafes and pubs that open their doors to dogs, whatever their size, offering treats, fresh bowls of water and doggy bags.

We’ve rounded up our top places to visit in Keswick with your faithful four-legged friends and you can browse a selection of our pet-friendly cottages in Keswick too.

Morning walkies

Hop on the Keswick Launch and off at Hawes End, and join the walkers heading for High Brandelhow via the family-friendly mountain, Catbells. Clearly marked trails lead the way up this easy fell and the views from the top are mesmerising. At High Brandelhow, take some time out to splash about in the lake or play fetch amongst the trees - then catch the launch back to Keswick. This is a fantastic walk for dogs of all sizes and abilities.

Park life

Hope Park has beautiful, landscaped gardens with woodlands and a stream, plus pitch and putt, crazy golf and boules! Cafe Hope is on the edge of the park and it is completely dog friendly. Or visit the kiosk and treat your furry buddy to a Frozzy - doggy frozen yoghurt!

Enjoy a cruise around Derwentwater

Affordable and flexible, the Keswick Launch is the perfect way to explore Keswick’s stunning lake and the surrounding fells. Its wooden boats take a leisurely 50-minute circuit between seven jetties. Hop on and off to explore pebble beaches, woodlands, lakeside footpaths and hiking opportunities. Dogs are welcome on board for free.

Fancy a brew?

You’ll find pet-friendly tearooms galore in Keswick serving a fabulous selection of fresh, homemade bites and aromatic coffee. The Square Orange serves speciality coffees and an exotic collection of teas - try the Kiwi! Laid back, welcoming and the perfect place to unwind after an afternoon of exploring. Your pups are welcome any time of day.

Retail therapy

You will find an array of independent shops throughout Keswick selling everything from jewellery to clothing, handcrafted gifts for all occasions, homeware, food, art and more. The best thing about shopping in Keswick? Your pups are welcome to join you for a good browse too! Treeby & Bolton is a treasure trove of beautiful prints, paintings and interiors. Or head to George Fisher and check out all the outdoor clothing and equipment. The Herdy Shop is another favourite, offering a selection of colourful products inspired by the Lake District’s Herdwick sheep.

Give the pup a treat

Podgy Paws is a haven for all things pets. Pups can enjoy a wee drink at the 'Dog Bar' before browsing all the coats, treats, toys and more.

For pub lovers

The Dog and Gun is a fantastic cosy pub with a selection of local ales and a menu offering hearty pub grub - the goulash is amazing! Dog friendly with ancient wooden beams, roaring fires and a warm atmosphere.

Alongside Keswick, the Lake District also scooped the top prize in the Great Outdoors category!

Dog-friendly holidays in Keswick

We have over 200 pet-friendly cottages throughout the Lake District and lots of choice if you are looking for a dog-friendly cottage in Keswick. Our cottages accept 1,2, 3 or 4 dogs and we pride ourselves on being able to give dog owners the information they need when planning their holiday. From our website you can find out if a cottage has a garden, and if it is enclosed or not, where the nearest pub is and if it is dog friendly.

Dog-friendly cottages in Keswick

Read more:
Our area guide on Keswick
Top 10 pet-friendly pubs in Keswick
Eating out in Keswick