Best UK Destinations For Pet Friendly Getaways

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best arts and entertainment magazine UK“, discover the UK’s top pet-friendly Airbnb destinations for a cozy autumn getaway with your furry friend, from the Highland charm of Inverness to the coastal allure of Plymouth!

As autumn paints the UK with vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold, it’s the perfect season for a cozy getaway with your furry companion. A recent study by Pet Insurance Deals analyzed Airbnb listings across UK cities to identify the most pet-friendly destinations for 2025, revealing surprising frontrunners and a wealth of options for pet owners.

From the rugged charm of the Scottish Highlands to the historic streets of English cities, here are the top 10 pet-friendly UK cities for an autumn escape, with insights into what makes each location ideal for you and your pet.

Best UK Destinations For Pet Friendly Getaways

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1. Inverness, Scotland: The Highland Haven

Inverness, known as the “Capital of the Highlands,” leads the pack with an impressive 63.2% of its Airbnb properties welcoming pets (12 out of 19 listings). Nestled along the River Ness, this Scottish gem offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and access to breathtaking natural landscapes. Autumn in Inverness is a spectacle, with nearby Loch Ness and the Cairngorms National Park showcasing stunning foliage. Pet owners can explore dog-friendly trails like the Great Glen Way or enjoy leisurely walks along the Caledonian Canal. The city’s compact size ensures easy access to pet-friendly cafes and pubs, making it an ideal base for a cozy autumn retreat with your four-legged friend.

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2. Perth, Scotland: A Riverside Retreat

Perth, another Scottish standout, ranks second with 58.3% of its 48 Airbnb properties open to pets (28 listings). This charming city on the River Tay is steeped in history, with attractions like Scone Palace and its sprawling grounds offering ample space for dogs to roam. Autumn brings a golden glow to Perth’s parks, such as North Inch and South Inch, perfect for scenic walks with your pet. The surrounding Perthshire countryside, often dubbed the “Big Tree Country,” bursts with color, providing endless opportunities for hiking and exploring dog-friendly trails. Perth’s welcoming vibe and abundance of pet-friendly accommodations make it a top choice for a relaxing getaway.

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3. Carlisle, England: A Historic Border City

Carlisle, the highest-ranking English city, secures third place with 57.8% of its 64 Airbnb properties allowing pets (37 listings). Located near the Scottish border, this historic city is a gateway to the Lake District and Hadrian’s Wall, both offering pet-friendly walking routes with stunning autumn views. Carlisle Castle and the city’s green spaces, like Rickerby Park, provide plenty of opportunities for dogs to stretch their legs. The city’s vibrant food scene includes pet-friendly pubs, ensuring you and your companion can unwind after a day of exploration. Carlisle’s blend of history, nature, and accessibility makes it a fantastic autumn destination.

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4. Dundee, Scotland: A Cultural Coastal Gem

Dundee claims fourth place with 56.3% of its 64 Airbnb listings welcoming pets (36 properties). This coastal city on the Firth of Tay is a cultural hub, home to the V&A Dundee and dog-friendly green spaces like Camperdown Country Park. Autumn transforms Dundee’s parks and nearby Broughty Ferry beach into vibrant landscapes ideal for pet-friendly strolls. The city’s compact layout makes it easy to explore with your dog, while its proximity to the Angus Glens offers more adventurous hiking options. Dundee’s pet-friendly accommodations and scenic surroundings make it a delightful choice for an autumn escape.

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5. Norwich, England: East Anglian Charm

Norwich rounds out the top five with 53.4% of its 73 Airbnb properties accepting pets (39 listings). This East Anglian city combines medieval charm with modern amenities, offering pet owners a perfect balance of urban exploration and outdoor adventure. Autumn in Norwich is magical, with the Norfolk Broads and nearby Whitlingham Country Park showcasing vibrant foliage. Dog-friendly attractions like Norwich Cathedral’s grounds and the city’s numerous parks provide ample space for pets to play. With a variety of pet-friendly cafes and historic pubs, Norwich is a welcoming destination for a cozy autumn getaway.

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6. Plymouth, England: Seaside Serenity

Plymouth, a coastal city in Devon, ranks sixth with 51.9% of its 52 Airbnb properties open to pets (27 listings). Known for its maritime heritage, Plymouth offers stunning seaside walks along the South West Coast Path, perfect for dogs to explore. Autumn brings crisp air and vibrant colors to Plymouth Hoe and nearby Dartmoor National Park, where pet-friendly trails abound. The city’s Barbican area, with its cobbled streets and pet-welcoming eateries, adds to the charm. Plymouth’s coastal vibe and ample pet-friendly options make it an excellent choice for a refreshing autumn break.

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7. Stoke-on-Trent, England: The Potteries’ Pet Paradise

Stoke-on-Trent takes seventh place with 50.8% of its 181 Airbnb properties being pet-friendly (92 listings), offering one of the highest absolute numbers of pet-welcoming accommodations. Known as the heart of the Potteries, this city combines industrial heritage with green spaces like Trentham Gardens, where dogs can roam amidst autumnal splendor. The nearby Peak District provides endless pet-friendly hiking opportunities, with rolling hills and colorful moorlands. Stoke’s abundance of pet-friendly properties and proximity to nature make it a practical and appealing destination for pet owners.

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8. Derby, England: A Pet-Friendly Urban Escape

Derby ties for eighth place with 50% of its 342 Airbnb listings welcoming pets (171 properties), boasting the highest absolute number of pet-friendly options in the top 10. This vibrant city offers a mix of history, culture, and green spaces, with Darley Park and Markeaton Park providing scenic autumn walks for you and your pet. The nearby Peak District and Derbyshire Dales offer further opportunities for outdoor adventures. Derby’s bustling city center includes pet-friendly cafes and pubs, making it a versatile choice for a pet-inclusive autumn getaway.

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8. Worcester, England: Riverside Relaxation

Sharing eighth place with Derby, Worcester also has 50% of its 142 Airbnb properties open to pets (71 listings). Situated along the River Severn, Worcester is known for its stunning cathedral and charming riverside walks, perfect for autumn strolls with your dog. The Malvern Hills, a short drive away, offer breathtaking views and pet-friendly trails amidst vibrant fall colors. Worcester’s historic streets are dotted with pet-welcoming cafes and inns, creating a cozy atmosphere for a relaxing getaway. Its balance of urban and natural attractions makes it a strong contender for pet owners.

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10. Hereford, England: A Rural Retreat

Hereford completes the top 10 with 49.7% of its 147 Airbnb properties accepting pets (73 listings). This cathedral city in the Wye Valley is surrounded by rolling countryside, ideal for autumn walks with your pet. The River Wye and nearby Brecon Beacons offer stunning scenery, with dog-friendly trails showcasing the season’s colors. Hereford’s historic center, with its pet-friendly pubs and cafes, adds to its appeal. For pet owners seeking a peaceful rural escape, Hereford is a perfect choice.

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Notable Trends and Considerations

The study highlights a surprising trend: smaller cities often outshine major tourist hubs in pet-friendliness. London, a global tourist magnet, ranks a dismal 65th with only 22% of its Airbnb properties accepting pets. Similarly, Edinburgh and Glasgow lag behind with 21.7% and 18.2% pet-friendly rates, respectively. Northern Ireland fares the worst, with Lisburn (15.1%) and Belfast (15.9%) offering the least pet-friendly accommodations in the UK.

For pet owners planning an autumn getaway, these findings suggest looking beyond popular tourist destinations. Scottish cities, in particular, dominate the top ranks, offering not only a high percentage of pet-friendly Airbnbs but also access to stunning landscapes perfect for dogs. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of Inverness, the coastal charm of Plymouth, or the historic allure of Carlisle, these destinations provide ample opportunities to create unforgettable memories with your pet.

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Tips for a Pet-Friendly Autumn Getaway

• Check Accommodation Details: Always confirm pet policies with Airbnb hosts, as some may have specific rules or restrictions.
• Explore Dog-Friendly Attractions: Research local parks, trails, and beaches that welcome pets to maximize outdoor fun.
• Pack for Your Pet: Bring essentials like food, water bowls, bedding, and toys to ensure your pet’s comfort.
• Plan for Autumn Weather: Equip your pet with a cozy jacket for chilly walks and check for muddy trails to avoid post-walk messes.
• Support Local: Seek out pet-friendly cafes, pubs, and restaurants to enjoy the local culture with your furry friend.

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With these pet-friendly destinations, autumn 2025 is the perfect time to plan a UK staycation that includes your four-legged family member. From the Highland trails of Inverness to the coastal paths of Plymouth, these cities offer a warm welcome for both you and your pet, ensuring a memorable and cozy getaway.