Best Dog Friendly Holidays in Wales

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Wales is home to Snowdonia National Park and the Brecon Beacons so if you are feeling adventurous there is plenty to explore. In Wales you will also find wonderful waterfalls, lakes, gardens and a stunning coastline going on for miles and miles with many of the beaches being award winning. If that isn't enough the fabulous mountain scenery will take your breath away. In this article we will share some of our top things to do and dog friendly places to stay. The information given was correct at the time of writing but please check before travelling for seasonal changes and Covid-19 restrictions.

What beaches can I take my dog to in Wales?

Oxwich Bay

Oxwich Bay is a large sandy stretch with lots on offer - sea, surf, dunes, salt marsh, shops - and it's easy to get to. Oxwich Bay is accessible by wheelchair with a car park near by (approx. 100m). Toilets and refreshments are also available near by. The bay is very popular with watersport enthusiasts and dogs are welcome all year round. Oxwich has been mentioned in several publications with The Travel Magazine calling it "The most beautiful beach in Britain".

Rhossili Bay

Another amazing Welsh beach is the stunning Rhossili Bay. It is located on the southwestern tip of the Gower Peninsula, and is made up of three miles of sand. Often described as one of Wales' best beaches, Rhossili is taken care of by the National Trust. Watersports are popular here and you may even be lucky enough to spot a seal or dolphin during your visit. A pub and hotel, situated on the headland, provide refreshments and stunning views. To access the beach, visitors must take a steep path with several flights of stairs. Rhossili Bay is dog friendly with The Times nominating it as ‘The UK's No.1 dog-friendly beach’.

Towyn Beach

Towyn Beach is a popular family beach where, not only can entertain your dog, but also your children. There are a range of seaside amusements such as old fashioned fun fairs and amusement arcades. The back section of the beach is made up of a bank of shingle which, when the tide is out, leads to a large sandy area which is perfect for pooches to stretch their legs all year round. Towyn is known for its stunning views and, on a clear day, you can see across Colwyn Bay and even as far as the Isle of Man. There is a shop, promenade, toilets and a pub nearby.

Are there any dog friendly parks in Wales?

Pembrey Country Park

Pembrey Country Park certainly has something for everyone with access to Cefn Sidan Beach, horseriding, golf, tobogganning, walking trails over 500 acres of park and woodland to explore and much more. The beach is dog friendly all year round but from 1st May to 30th Sept they have their own doggy area of the beach to explore. Pembrey Country Park

Afan Forest Park

There is so much to keep you busy during a visit to Afan Forest Park with a fantastic landscape that offers lots of opportunities to get out and experience nature. There are excellent mountain biking, cycling and walking trails for visitors to enjoy. There is a massive area with 14 marked walks ranging from easy to hard. Large parts are tarmaced, others are hardcored and others are muddy trails. Refreshments are available at the Cedars Tea Room. Afan Forest Park

Dare Valley Country Park

Dare Valley Country Park consists of 500 acres of countryside, walks, trails and family fun all within a mile of Aberdare. Dare Valley Country Park is a great place for walking. You can stroll at will in the country park or try one of the three way marked walks ranging from 2 to 4 miles. Dogs are welcome but must be kept under strict control. Dare Valley Country Park

What other dog friendly activities are available in Wales?

National Showcaves Centre

Located just inside the Brecon Beacons National Park, the National Showcaves Centre is so much more than just caves. There are indeed two beautiful showcaves onsite, plus the historic Bone Cave but in total there are 10 attractions included in your ticket price. These include life-size dinosaurs, the Shire Horse Centre with play areas, museum and much more. Friendly family dogs are permitted into the Showcaves, but dogs must be on a short lead at all times. Dogs are NOT permitted into the Shire Horse Centre area where the Farm, Play Areas and Millennium Stone Circles are situated. National Showcaves Centre

St Fagans National Museum of History

The museum stands in the grounds of the magnificent St Fagans Castle and gardens. Since 1948 over forty original buildings from different historical periods have been re-erected in the 100-acre parkland, among them houses, a farm, a school, a chapel and a splendid Workmen's Institute. Traditional crafts and activities bring St Fagans alive, in workshops where craftsmen still demonstrate their traditional skills. Their produce is usually on sale. Native breeds of livestock can be seen in the fields and farmyards, and demonstrations of farming tasks take place daily. Visitors gain an insight into the rich heritage and culture of Wales, and the Welsh language can be heard in daily use amongst craftsmen and interpreters. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead. St Fagans National Museum

Hiking in Snowdonia

The interior of the north of Wales is mainly enclosed in Snowdonia National Park. With its gorgeous wild scenery and rugged peaks, including the highest peak in Wales (Mt Snowdon). There are a range of hiking opportunities, ranging from short walks to full day adventures. And best of all, dogs are allowed to join you on your walk. Just make sure that dogs are kept on a leash around livestock, particularly during the lambing season. Snowdonia National Park

Is there any dog friendly accomodation in Wales?

Yes there is, please see our reccommendations below.

Dog Friendly Holiday Cottages in Wales sleeps 2-10 people, and up to 2 dogs, £-££££

Dog Friendly Log Cabins in Wales Sleeps 2-10 people and up to 4 pets per cabin, £££

What else should I consider taking with me?

Consider taking a map with you on your travels. Many people now rely on technology to get around but there is nothing more satisfying than using a traditional map, and better still you aren't reliant on signals and batteries.

OS Brecon Beacons Map Set from £14.38 excluding postage

OS Map of Snowdon from £8.99 excluding postage

OS North Wales and Snowdonia Pathfinder walking guidebook from £12.99 excluding postage