With specially-designed dinners, concierges and super plush beds for fido, many a stylish slumber spot is now vying to make their pet-friendly stay a paw ahead of the pack. Here are Nicky and Rigby’s top picks for a weekend in the country with your pup, where they will be welcomed with open arms, and life’s little luxuries are more than in abundance for humans too.
To the manor born, or so Fido will feel, at this luxurious private house hotel, nestled in a sublime country estate. The Grade II-listed Arts and Crafts country house, refreshed and revitalised for the 21st century, may well be the home you dream of. Supremely stylish, with understated elegance in abundance, 400 acres of woodland estate, and your personal host, you and your pooch may never want to leave. Insiders tip: treat your pup and order their din dins from the Chef’s specially created doggy menu, or invite their paw friends and hire the house!
Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Oxfordshire
With gastronomy at its heart and a restaurant that has held two Michelin stars for over 30 years, this magnificent country house hotel is the brain child of Raymond Blanc. Sumptuous and elegant, Le Manoir is one stay you will not forget. You and your pooch’s every whim will be catered for by the quietly attentive staff, and every room is exquisitely, uniquely and meticulously themed around Raymond Blanc’s lifetime influences. Insiders tip: opt for the Citronnelle suite, for its breezy, uplifting décor, and wonderful private terrace to enjoy with your dog.
First built in 1666, this stately home is steeped in colourful history and full of intrigue and glamour. The antique furnishings and period features will transport you back to centuries past. Approaching the majestic frontage with Fido in tow, the sound of the tyres on the gravel will draw your attention as you begin to settle in to the peaceful surrounds, just 30 miles from Central London. With Cliveden House being one of the pack leaders when it comes to dogfriendly, you and your dog can both take the time to relax and indulge. Insiders tip: dine with Fido in The Astor Grill after exploring the surrounding dog-friendly National Trust grounds.
Escape to the country with a visit to this decadent, dog-friendly Hampshire country house hotel, dating back to the late 17th century. Your pooch will feel like a true stately hound at Lainston House as you saunter through the mile-long avenue of lime trees, before exploring the acres beyond. With country pursuits abound, and enticing quarters for both humans and hounds, you’ll find yourself wishing you were the ‘Lord of the Manor’ at this alluring countryside retreat. Insiders tip: for a private terrace and space galore, book a Loggia Suite.
This dog-friendly hotel is a place to escape where all the family can relax, revive and indulge in country pursuits. With resident dog, Mr Oliver Beckington, on hand, and a warm welcome waiting, your pup will adore the extensive grounds. There will be a tail wagging in no time, with sniffs galore to be had around the rolling countryside and lakes.
All Four Paws brings the very best in pet-friendly to the discerning dog owners of the UK, enabling them to easily find and book stylish venues to eat, sleep and play, where dogs are just as welcome as their humans. All destinations are tried and tested by the Paws Team, and offer that certain quality of style and experience that you'll only get with All Four Paws.
Pawfect escape
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