In a significant shift towards more relaxed and pet-inclusive holidays, KAYAK, a leading travel search engine, has revealed the UK's premier destinations for slow travel with dogs. This trend aligns with the growing preference among British travellers for staycations that emphasise relaxation and healthier routines for both owners and their canine companions.
Surge in Pet-Friendly Travel Searches
According to recent data from KAYAK, hotel searches utilising the 'pet-friendly' filter have increased by 28% year on year. This analysis is based on searches conducted on KAYAK.co.uk and its associated brands from January 11, 2025, to February 22, 2026, for travel between January 1, 2026, and December 31, 2026, compared to the same periods in the previous year.
The rise reflects broader travel trends, with 69% of younger travellers prioritising relaxation and mental reset, and 26% favouring a slower pace. A dog-friendly staycation naturally extends this movement, offering opportunities for coastal walks, countryside trails, and leisurely afternoons in dog-welcoming pubs.
Top Dog-Friendly Destinations Unveiled
KAYAK partnered with OpenTable to rank UK destinations based on the concentration of pet-friendly accommodations and pubs. Keswick in Cumbria claims the top spot, with 40% of stays listed as pet-friendly and every pub in town welcoming dogs. Nestled within the Lake District National Park, Keswick provides dog-friendly lake cruises, water bowls outside shops, and even specialised canine menus in local establishments.
The full top ten list includes:
- Keswick
- Southampton
- Chester
- Bath
- Llandudno
- Norwich
- Birmingham
- Torquay
- Bournemouth
- Manchester
Highlights and Value Options
Torquay emerges as the best-value destination, with average nightly rates of £63, making it an affordable choice for a 'dogcation'. For classic seaside experiences, Llandudno and Bournemouth offer sweeping promenades, cliff-top walks, and generous year-round beach access.
Southampton is ideal for a green city break, featuring acres of common land and easy access to woodland trails. Culture seekers can explore Bath or Chester, where historic streets and canal towpaths facilitate effortless strolls with dogs. Urban enthusiasts will find Manchester and Birmingham appealing due to their impressive concentration of dog-friendly pubs and park areas.
The report also includes travel tips, top pet-friendly stays, and recommendations for dog-friendly pubs, providing a comprehensive guide for travellers. This article is based on content distributed by GlobeNewswire and produced by SWNS Media Group.
