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Best dog friendly hotels in Scotland 2023: Where to stay with pets on a Scottish holiday

Best dog friendly hotels in Scotland 2023: Where to stay with pets on a Scottish holiday


There are few better places in the world to travel with a dog than Scotland. With the right to roam, there are almost endless options for walkies here, be it up in the high mountains of the Cairngorms or Nevis Range, or along the craggy coastlines of the country’s remote and wild isles.

While the Scottish Highlands draw the crowds – and rightly so, thanks to the utterly beguiling scenery that would rival Mordor for its drama – there are exceptional dog-friendly holiday options across the country. Ayrshire has one of the most underrated coastlines in Scotland, so head here for brilliant sandy beaches, while Edinburgh is a surprisingly dog-friendly city, with family-focused attractions that let dogs in, too. Foodies are well catered for with dog-friendly hotels earning Michelin-stars and running truly divine tasting menus, and there’s romance afoot in a Highlands castle that’ll have even the dog swooning.

Wherever you’ve set your sights, here’s our pick of the best dog-friendly hotels in Scotland.

Location: The Highlands

Dogs can roam free at the tastefully decorated 13th-century Mingray castle

(Mingray Castle)

A dog-friendly hotel with a difference, Mingary Castle is a 13th-century coastal stronghold that’s seen viking invasions, royal visits and all manner of military struggles over the centuries. Thankfully, today, everything’s a little more laidback and the only invaders are tourists (and their dogs) coming for those serene, romantic views over the ocean. Dogs are allowed to roam free on the castle grounds and on the pebble beach nearby, and humans can savour the six-course tasting menu on offer in the restaurant.