Dog-Friendly Hunter Valley, NSW: Visiting with a Dog

Just over two hours drive from Sydney, it’s quick and easy to head to the Hunter Valley in NSW, whether just for the day or for a weekend. But don’t think that your dog needs to miss out on the fun. I’ve put together lots of tips on everything from dog-friendly wineries to dog-friendly accommodation, so that your whole family can enjoy a getaway to the Hunter Valley. 

Dog-Friendly Hunter Valley

Dog-Friendly Sightseeing in the Hunter Valley

Top of the list of things to do when visiting the Hunter Valley is visiting a cellar door or two. Many of the wineries also offer other attractions from grounds for picnics to onsite restaurants. But I’ve also uncovered some other fun things to do with your pup…

#1 Enjoy a Wine Tasting

The majority of the cellar doors dotted around the Hunter Valley welcome your dog to join you. If you pick up the latest Hunter Valley Regional Guide, the long listing of cellar doors indicates which ones are pet-friendly. Depending on the venue, dogs are allowed inside or sometimes just in outdoor areas.

Tintilla Estate with Dog
Many wineries in the Hunter Valley welcome dogs

However, there are also some wineries that are extra dog-friendly in the Hunter Valley, with special treats just for your pups.

One of my favourite wineries in the Hunter Valley is Briar Ridge Vineyard in the Mount View area. Claiming to be the most dog-friendly winery in the Hunter, dogs are allowed both inside and outside on the large verandah. And in addition to cheese and charcuterie boards for humans, you can also add a dog treat platter to your booking!

Briar Ridge Vineyard Dog Treat Platter
The dog treat platter at Briar Ridge Vineyard

More wineries that offer special treats for dogs include Pepper Tree Wines, Glandore Estate Wines and Gundog Estate (with their own dog-friendly “beer”!) Or check out the full list of my favourite dog-friendly wineries in the Hunter Valley, with full details on what’s on offer at each.

When visiting cellar doors in the Hunter Valley, it’s best to book ahead. Generally you can choose between multiple wine tasting experiences, with tasting fees starting at $10 or $15 per person, and no charge for dogs.

#2 Blend Your Own Wine

If you’re wanting a more in-depth wine experience in the Hunter Valley, I recommend making a booking for the “Winemaker for a Day Experience” at McCaffrey’s Estate.

During a 90 minute session in small groups between two to 12, you’ll be taken through a detailed tasting of three red wines, learning to distinguish between body, tannin and more. Then you’ll create your own red blend, tasting along the way, before bottling and labelling it, ready to be cellared at home for a special occasion.

McCaffreys Estate Blending
Blend your own wine at McCaffrey’s Estate

I was delighted to discover that McCaffrey’s Estate is dog-friendly throughout the premises, including in the blending room, as long as they’re happy to chill on the floor beside you. Water bowls are provided outside the tasting room, where there are also outdoor tables.

#3 Taste Beer or Gin

These days, it’s not just wine that you can taste in the Hunter Valley, with a growing number of breweries and distilleries calling the valley home. And there’s also plenty of dog-friendly options available to visit.

I’ve previously visited Ironbark Hill Brewhouse with my pup. Order a tasting paddle, choosing between the twelve beers and ciders on-tap, all brewed onsite. Leashed dogs are welcome in the spacious outdoor seating area. Also onsite is the Wildstreak Pizzeria and Kitchen, open at lunchtime.

Ironbark Hill Brewhouse
Taste the local brews at Ironbark Hill Brewhouse

Other pet-friendly breweries and distillers include 4 Pines at the Farm, Pokolbin Cider House and Pokolbin Distillery. Double check in advance whether dogs are allowed inside or just outside, plus for the latest opening hours.

#4 Join a Dog-Friendly Winery Tour

Whether you’re planning on tasting wine, beer or gin, there’s always the problem of how to get between the cellar doors – the Hunter Valley is a fairly spread out region! Luckily, there are plenty of winery tours on offer in the Hunter Valley, including some dog-friendly options.

Grape to Glass specialises in private boutique wine tours, with dogs warmly welcomed by tour guide Vanessa on Signature Tours. On the tour you’ll visit the truly pet-friendly locations in the Hunter Valley. Dog seat belt restraints, bowls, leads and handmade treats are provided, along with opportunities for walks during the day.

Another recent option is Ozi Dogs. Book a dog-friendly wine tasting tour in their mini-bus or six-seater van, with both group and private couple tours available. You’ll visit three wineries, a distillery and enjoy cheese, chocolate and olive oil tastings.

#5 Picnic Amongst the Vineyards

The vineyards of the Hunter Valley are a gorgeous spot for a picnic when the sun is shining, and many of the wineries make it easy by offering picnic packages that you can enjoy right on their grounds.

As well as being delightfully dog-friendly, Pepper Tree Wines is surrounded by some of the prettiest gardens in the Hunter. Consider booking a Grazing Picnic instead of a traditional wine tasting. A charcuterie board, picnic blanket and wine glasses are included. Add on a bottle or two of wine purchased onsite, then take your pick from the lawns and picnic tables.

Pepper Tree Wines Picnics
The grounds of Pepper Tree Wines

Thomas Wines is beautifully located with views of the Brokenback Ranges beyond the surrounding vineyards. Order an antipasto box or two when you book your tasting, then enjoy it outside, with picnic rugs available for loan.

Another beautiful spot in the valley for a picnic, particularly if you’ve prepared your own, is the Pokolbin Rest Area, situated on a hillside south of the Hunter Valley Gardens. There are multiple sheltered picnic tables and vistas over the vineyards to the Brokenback Range.  

Pokolbin Rest Area
A picnic table at the Pokolbin Rest Area

#6 Walk Around Kitchener Dam

If you’re looking for a walk to break up your wine tasting and feasting, a popular dog walking spot with both locals and visitors is Kitchener Dam, located about 5km south of Cessnock.

The park adjacent to the dam is home to a large Poppet Head, an interesting remain from the mine that was once on the site. There’s a pleasant 1.2km walking trail around the dam, home to ducks and swans, plus another longer trail through the nearby bushland. Dogs need to be kept on a leash.

Kitchener Dam Poppet Head
The Poppet Head next to Kitchener Dam
Kitchener Dam Walk
Walking around Kitchener Dam

#7 Drive the Scenic Way Through Wollombi

The quickest way to get to the Hunter Valley from Sydney is to drive along the M1 Motorway, then take the turn-off for Cessnock or follow the Hunter Expressway to the Lovedale turn-off. However, like most motorways, the drive is rather boring.

An interesting alternative if you have some extra time is to take the Peat’s Ridge turn-off soon after Gosford, then follow Tourist Drive 33. This scenic route passes through beautiful countryside, past old convict roads and through the historic town of Wollombi.

Stop in Wollombi for a wander around the village and its historic buildings – the courthouse dates to 1866. Or enjoy lunch in the beer garden of the equally historic Wollombi Tavern. The Trading Post Laguna is also highly rated.

Are Dogs Allowed at the Hunter Valley Gardens?

One of the top attractions of the region is the Hunter Valley Gardens, particularly during the annual Christmas Lights Spectacular and other special events. However, unfortunately you’ll have to skip visiting the gardens with your dog – they have a strict no pets policy. Make a booking for a pet sitter if you want to visit the gardens.

Dog-Friendly Parks in the Hunter Valley

If your dog is in need of some off-leash romping, there’s two handy off-leash dog exercise areas in the nearby town of Cessnock, Manning Park and Hall Park.

Manning Park is home to a fenced dog park, near the end of the Newtown Avenue. This large fenced area has double gates, although keep an eye on small or agile dogs, as the lowish fence isn’t entirely secure. Inside you’ll find benches and a shelter, with a water fountain outside.

Hall Park is a smaller space accessible from the end of Chidgey Street and Stephen Street. Note that it isn’t fenced, and there are some complaints about the grass being long. There are also plans for a new off-leash area at Bridges Hill.  

Dog-Friendly Cafes in the Hunter Valley

Many of the cafes scattered throughout the Hunter Valley have outdoor dining areas where you dog is welcome to join you. It’s best to plan ahead, with bookings often recommended on weekends and only limited options open during the week. 

One of the most popular dog-friendly spots is The Deck Cafe Lovedale. The cafe is open daily for breakfast and lunch, with a tapas-style menu at lunchtime.

Not surprisingly the restaurant is located on a deck overlooking a dam. A list of rules for dogs is displayed at the entry – dogs skip sitting on chairs or laps and should be kept on a leash – especially if you visit the farmyard animals at the rear of the property!

The Deck Lovedale
Dogs are welcome at The Deck Cafe Lovedale
The Deck Lovedale Dog Rules
Just make sure you follow the rules, and your dog may receive a treat!

Another great spot to stop by is the Lovedale Smokehouse Cafe and Deli. Dine in at the cafe in the outdoor dining area or picnic tables opposite, with water bowls provided for pups and a stick library. Or pick up some supplies for your own picnic. Among their huge range of products they stock dog treats including doggy donuts and pupcakes.

Lovedale Smokehouse Dog Library
The dog stick library at Lovedale Smokehouse

Another dog-friendly cafe in the Hunter Valley is Cafe Enzo, part of the Peppers Creek Village. Open daily for breakfast and lunch, sit at an outdoor table in their pretty courtyard.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants in the Hunter Valley

It’s not just casual dining options that are dog-friendly in the Hunter Valley. The area is home to many fine dining restaurants, some of which also welcome dogs in their outdoor dining areas.

During my most recent visit (although sadly without my dog), I enjoyed a three-course dinner at Circa 1876. Located in the historic Pepper Tree Cottage, adjacent to the winery of the same name and just a stroll from The Convent, pets are welcome to join you in the covered al fresco area and the outdoor tables. Take a walk amongst the kitchen garden, utilised in some of the dishes, in between courses.

Circa 1876 Pepper Tree Cottage
Circa 1876 in the historic Pepper Tree Cottage

More dog-friendly restaurants in the Hunter Valley include Bistro Molines (lunch service only), Amanda’s on the Edge (overlooking Windsor’s Edge Vineyard), Margan Restaurant (with its farm-to-table tasting menu) and éRemo Restaurant (part of Spicers Guesthouse). Most restaurants are only opened selected days and note that you’ll be bringing along a pet when booking.

Dog-Friendly Pubs in the Hunter Valley

The local “pub” in the Hunter Valley is Harrigan’s Hunter Valley, which unfortunately is not dog-friendly. (Let me know if this ever changes!)

Instead, your best bet is to head to one of the dog-friendly breweries in the Hunter Valley, some that have onsite bistros. This is an ideal option at lunchtime, but not for dinner, as most of the breweries close around 5pm. This includes Ironbark Hill Brewhouse, that I’ve previously visited (see above).

Luckily, the recently opened 4 Pines at the Farm brewpub is open daily until 8pm. Part of the Hunter Valley Resort & Farm complex, I haven’t yet had a chance to visit. When booking, choose between a table on the grassy lawns or under the balcony, and indicate you’ll be bringing a pet.

Another relaxed option in the evening is the Brokenback Bar, part of Estate Tuscany (where you can also stay with your dog, see below). There are designated pet-friendly tables in the outdoor area – request a pet-friendly table when booking. The bar specialises in tapas and BBQ.

Dog-Friendly Accommodation in the Hunter Valley

There’s plenty of pet-friendly accommodation options in the Hunter Valley, whether you’re after a cottage for your family, or a luxury hotel room. 

Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive commission if you make a purchase using the links. See my full disclaimer.

Hunter Valley Pet-Friendly Hotels

One of the most popular pet-friendly hotels in the Hunter Valley is Estate Tuscany. Multiple rooms have been designated as pet-friendly, the onsite restaurant and bar are both pet-friendly, and there are extensive grounds for your pup to explore on lead.

Up to two dogs or cats are permitted per room, for an additional charge of $80 per stay. Direct bookings are required, including through their website (click on the Extras option). Contact the resort for their full pet policy.

Alternatively, enquire at Voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley. The hotel has a number of pet-friendly rooms (available by booking directly), complete with private courtyards. Note that dogs are restricted to a maximum weight of 15kg (not always strictly enforced…). There is a pet fee of $100, with pups pampered in return with their own bed, bowl and home-made treats.

Voco Kirkton Park Exterior
The entrance to the pet-friendly voco Kirkton Park © voco Kirkton Park

Your dog is welcome to join you at Epoche Lounge Bar, as well as all courtyards, balconies and on picnics around the grounds. I’ve stayed at the property multiple times back when it was a Sebel hotel, and loved the expansive gardens and grounds, perfect for walks with your pup.  

For a luxury stay, including with a group, consider Spicers Guesthouse or Spicers Vineyards Estate. At Spicers Guesthouse the delightful four-bedroom Cottage contained in the five-star resort is pet-friendly, as well as King Deluxe Rooms.

Make a booking for a Pooch Package, for an extra $150 per night, with a plush dog bed and dog bowl provided. Note that only dogs up to 25kg are permitted, and at least seven days notice is requested.

Spicers Guest House with Dog
Stay with your dog at Spicers Guesthouse © Spicers Retreats

At Spicers Vineyards Estate, pets are allowed to join you in the four-bedroom Vineyards House, which has its own full kitchen, private pool and fireplace, or in the Luxury Spa Suites. Again a 25kg weight limit applies, plus a $100 per dog per night fee. See the full details of the Pooch Package.

Spicers Vineyards Estate Vineyards House
The pet-friendly Vineyards House © Spicers Retreats
The courtyard at the Table Guesthouse
The courtyard at the Table Guesthouse © Table Guesthouse

For a more intimate stay on the edge of the valley, check out The Table Guesthouse in Greta. With just three deluxe queen rooms, each with their own ensuite, this charming guesthouse welcomes well-behaved dogs under 10kg, with a treat on arrival and resident puppy, Harvey the Jack Russell, to meet.

Every morning, a three-course breakfast is served, included with the nightly tariff. There’s also the option to add on dinner or a day tour. Alternatively, contact the host Jo to enquire about dog sitting.

Hunter Valley Pet-Friendly Cottages

One of the best pet-friendly cottages in the Hunter Valley is Wirral Grange. This cottage at Wirral Grange Vineyard in Lovedale is three-bedrooms, sleeping up to seven, and comes with breakfast supplies from their own farm. Well-behaved, immunised dogs are welcome to join you, with no charge as long as they have their own bedding.

There’s a fenced backyard where they can be safely left if you head out without them, plus onsite dams where they can enjoy a swim. (A shared saltwater swimming pool for humans is available during the summer.)  

Hunter Valley Vineyard
Gorgeous scenery in the Hunter Valley

If you’re planning a Hunter trip with a large group of family or friends, check out Vinden Estate Homestead. The winner of the “Best Accommodation – Hunter Valley” award from Gourmet Traveller magazine in 2022, this six-bedroom property is set in parkland grounds and is dog-friendly.

Inside are two open fireplaces, while outside is a swimming pool and BBQ. Make sure you request in advance for pets to stay, plus note that the property isn’t fenced and the adjacent winery also has dogs.

Hunter Valley Pet-Friendly Caravan Parks

If you’re looking for a pet-friendly caravan park, both the Wine Country Tourist Park and Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley are pet-friendly.

We stayed at the Wine Country Tourist Park, a small family-run park that’s close to the vineyards, where small pets are allowed at the manager’s discretion.

Wine Country Tourist Park
Small pets are allowed at Wine Country Tourist Park

Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley has both pet-friendly sites and cabins available, with no mention of black-out dates. Generally only one pet is permitted per booking, unless you receive prior approval. If staying in a cabin, an additional cleaning fee of $15 per night applies. Confirm which cabins are pet-friendly before booking.

Note: The author was a guest of the Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association while visiting some of these locations, but all opinions are entirely her own

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About the Author

Photo of Shandos & Schnitzel

Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.

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7 thoughts on “Dog-Friendly Hunter Valley, NSW: Visiting with a Dog”

  1. Hi there, thank you for your recommendations they are certainly helpful. I’m just trying to think of activities at night that is also pet friendly. Any suggestions? We are staying in great but we don’t mind travelling. Thanks

    Reply
    • There’s not many activities on offer in the evening in the Hunter Valley. I believe Harrigan’s Pub is open late, but I haven’t checked if it has a dog-friendly area. Alternatively, it’s a good time to sit back and relax at your accommodation, enjoying some of your purchases from during the day.

      Reply
  2. Thank you for including Misty Glen Cottage in your blog. We genuinely pet friendly as is our cellar door. We are open weekends and during the week by appointment.
    I noticed one of your followers asked about evening activities with dogs. As long as you are prepared to be outside then you should be able to take your dog to pet friendly restaurants. Otherwise there are pet sitting agents around locally such as Critter Sitter. Hope to see you soon!

    Reply
  3. Harrigans pub is not dog friendly 🙁

    We are staying at Tuscay Wine Estate which is dog friendly and they have a restaurant and bar on their property that is dog friendly 🙂
    Looking forward to visit all these places you listed again 🙂

    Reply
    • Great to hear that you’re staying at Tuscany Wine Estate! And yes, it’s a pity that Harrigans doesn’t allow dogs.

      Reply
    • We went there last night with our 2 fur babies (2 small dogs ) I called ahead and they said yes to dogs just sit outside . The outside included the area with heaters and plastic cafe curtains down.
      Very warm.

      Reply

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