The Northumberland coastline offers visitors some of the most breathtaking and idyllic scenery in the United Kingdom, while a few miles in land those who frequent here will be to tell you of the hustle and bustle of the city. Often a forgotten corner of the country, the North East of England has lots to offer and it isn’t only promoted at humans either. Have you ever considered that every time you leave your dog at home, they think you are just going on ‘walkies’ without them? Well, now you don’t have to. Here is our comprehensive list of the best dog-friendly places to stay, to eat and things to do with your dog in the England’s North East.
Wylam Brewery
This is a brewery like no other. Gaining somewhat of a cult following due to the variety of events it hosts, ranging from ‘Battle of the Burger’ and ‘Celebration of Disco’, Wylam has cemented its position as must visit for locals and tourists alike in recent years. With the dome-topped Grand Hall allowing streams of natural light in shining down on the many ale taps Wylam is locally known for, to the numerous street food vans lining the outer perimeter, not to mention the beautiful moat-like lake that sits just in front of the entrance to the yeasty keep.
The Kingslodge Inn
Now, you’ve walked all day with your furry friend, and it is time to put the paws up and relax. Although nestled in foliage and perked on the outskirts of town, this Durham hotel is still very much within the confines of the flaneur-esque sleepy streets of the city centre. The semi-concealed retreat allows dogs and their owners to saunter back and enjoy a night’s rest after a day of exploring the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham Cathedral and Castle. Serving up homely but restaurant standard pub grub, with an impressive selection of local ales and wines for the connoisseurs out there.
Hog’s Head Inn
Yes, you are right in thinking this pub has taking inspiration from the best-selling J.K. Rowling series. A silver-award winner in the recent North East England Tourism Awards, this hotel in Alnwick appropriately named after the Hogsmeade pub from Harry Potter, is a perfect place to reside whilst you explore everything the town has to offer, including the nearby Alnwick Castle Gardens or the town square. With 53 spacious en-suite bedrooms couples, families and well-behaved pooches to explore England’s most northern National Park.
The Tyne Bar
Nestled between Ouseburn Valley and the Quayside, the Tyne Bar is one of Newcastle’s most popular destinations all year round and your dog will feel right at home, with natives making this their first port of call when grabbing a pint with their canine companion. With an impressive selection of beers, local ales and spirits, it’s a great place to sit amongst the laidback atmosphere and watch the sunset over the river with their free live music events on a Friday blasting out from under the bridge.
The Battlesteads
If you are considering a weekend away and you wish to indulge in some star-gazing, the Northumbrian Inn might right up your street — the hotel is complete with an observatory, a secret garden, and a conservatory for the sunnier months. Flying the flag for the greenest hotel in Northumberland, being the first hotel to install a carbon neutral heating system. Nestled in the sleepy village of Wark, this is a great location to explore the surrounding Hadrian’s Wall area.
Barter books
A book store for dogs? Correct! Dogs are allowed to wander aimlessly through the aisles of Barter’s as its owners peruse the host of first editions. One of the largest collections of pre-owned books in the country, Barter Books has it all. A roaring fire in the winter, a homely café churning out all the seasonal goods from paninis to the nations favourite sausage and mash, as well as a perpetual pot of coffee brewing in the foyer.
The Commissioners Quay Inn
Sat perched on Blyth’s historic quay, the Commissioners Quay Inn is an impressive pub, restaurant and bed and breakfast that dominates the surrounding the area. With beautiful views of the marina and out towards the sea, you can wake up to the sound of the morning waves from your own personal balcony. If you’re looking to explore the town of Blyth, the Inn allows easy access to all local shops and pubs, despite itself being on the edge of the town’s perimeter.
The Salt House Kitchen
This Seaburn restaurant takes its name from the prominent industry which existed here many moons ago — locals would extract salt from the water, dissolving it in the salt kitchens. Its canine enthusiasm is so prominent that they’ve even conjured up a menu just for dogs, so their pleading eyes and whimpers will not be in vain. Their outdoor area is designated solely for dogs, so best to bring a jacket in the colder months, as the open sea air can get quite nippy!
Eshott Hall
The countryside in Northumberland is awash with natural scenery and majestic heritage, and its title of UK Holiday Destination of the Year 2017 was more than deserved. Eshott Hall fits neatly within the themes of nature and heritage, concealed behind trees and claimed by ivy. The manor house has maintained its Grade II Listed status with its professionalism and grandeur hospitality, where dog owners can bring along their furry loved ones to meander the grounds.
Seaton Lane Inn
Only a five-minute drive from the coast, this newly refurbished pub and restaurant can be found just a stones throw from Lord Byron’s Walk and is one of the most perfect places to eat in Seaham. Its location proves a great setting for dog-lovers to explore the cultural, historical surroundings of Seaham and Durham.
Beamish
Take a step back in time when you visit one of the North East’s most popular tourist attractions. A fictional yet functioning town, with a pub, sweet shop and bakery amongst others, visitors and their pets can experience first-hand what life was like in the North East over a hundred years ago.
Riley’s fish shack
When the weather is good, virtually everyone within a thirty-mile radius flocks to Tynemouth, but Riley’s doesn’t just cater to the sunshine. Pioneers of the aquatic culinary scene and appropriately positioned on Tynemouth’s Short Sands beach, the twin containers that make up Riley’s Fish Shack have heaped the praise of locals and out-of-towners for their innovative approach to non-street, street food. The shack is busy all year round, even in winter, with the help of blankets and heaters, with a canopy sheltering from the rain. Descending the steps from the road, the mouth-watering smell of seared sea food grilled in the big wood-fire oven.
