Looking for a fun day out with your dog around London? No matter what you’re after, from a day in the city to an escape to the countryside, including dog-friendly walks, boat rides and more, I’ve got you covered with plenty of ideas for dog-friendly day trips around London.
All of these ideas are located either within London or just a short drive away, generally no longer than 90 minutes, with most places also accessible by public transport. So whether you’re looking for something fun to do today or you’re planning for an upcoming weekend, keep on reading for plenty of ideas of fun adventures to enjoy with your pup around London…
#1 Stroll Along Southbank
One of the best spots to enjoy a long walk with your dog in London while taking in the buzzing atmosphere of the city is along Southbank. It’s an easy flat walk all the way from Tower Bridge to Westminster Bridge, nearly all along the riverside, with just a few short detours near Borough Market.
Along the way, take in the views of the city on the northern bank of the Thames, plus the looming Tate Modern and Globe Theatre on Southbank. Perhaps head up inside the eye-catching Tower Bridge – with dogs welcome to join you! I also enjoyed the public art along the way, such as the Gillie and Marc sculptures at More London.
A popular spot to enjoy lunch is the dog-friendly Borough Market. Leashed dogs are welcome, although perhaps avoid busy times. I was also tempted to stop at the riverfront Anchor Bankside – choose between the outdoor terrace or cosy interior. When I visited London in late April, there were also many pop-up venues being set up.
#2 Explore Royal Windsor
It’s less than an hour on the train from the centre of London to one of the two train stations in Windsor, home to Windsor Castle. While dogs can’t join you inside the castle, there’s still plenty to see and do with your dog by your side.
Make sure you get some selfies outside the King Henry VIII Gateway on Castle Hill and take in the Changing of the Guard if you visit on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you on the Long Walk, part of Windsor Great Park. You can even enjoy a boat trip together on the Thames, for a different viewpoint of the castle, or hire your own boat.
While dogs are welcome in Alexandra Park, which runs alongside the Windsor Promenade, I recommend crossing the bridge over to Eton and enjoying a stroll through the Brocas, also a great spot to picnic on sunny days. There’s also plenty of dog-friendly pubs in Windsor to choose from!
Check out my full guide to visiting Windsor with a dog
#3 Swim at Hampstead Heath
With over 800 acres to explore, it’s no wonder that Hampstead Heath is a popular destination for dog owners from all over London. But unlike other parks that usually don’t allow dogs in the ponds, your dog can enjoy a swim here too.
Head to the Highgate No 1 pond, close to the Highgate Road entrance, where dogs are allowed inside a fairly large fenced area of the pond. If it’s too busy or your dog too timid, there’s also a smaller fenced area of the pond a little further along.
Note that dogs are not allowed in the other ponds where there are swimming areas for humans. But dogs are allowed off-leash throughout most of the park, except for a few areas in the north near Kenwood House, where they are required to be on-leash or prohibited – refer to this map of Hampstead Heath.
#4 Head to Brighton Beach
Another popular swimming destination close to London is the resort town of Brighton, less than 60 miles south of London and about an hour on the Thameslink train.
When I recently visited Brighton, it was still late April, with dogs allowed on most of the beaches. However, during the summer season from 1st May to 30th September, many beaches are off limits to dogs. I recommend heading to the beach east of Brighton Palace Pier – dogs are allowed on the pebbles between the Volks Railway Aquarium Station and the marina wall year round.
While in Brighton, also enjoy a stroll along the promenade with your dog by your side – if you head as far as the Angel of Peace statue, your dog can enjoy a romp on the Hove Lawns. Dogs are also welcome on the Volks Electric Railway, the historic railway that connects the Brighton Palace Pier with the marina.
Check out my full guide to dog-friendly Brighton
#5 Walk Along Regent’s Canal to Camden
While the Thames is the waterway in London that gets all the attention, another important body of water is the Regent’s Canal, which is also a great place for a walk with your dog, particularly the 2-mile stretch between Little Venice and Camden.
I started my walk at the Paddington Basin, near Paddington Station and a short walk from Little Venice. The section of the canal between Little Venice and the Maida Hill Tunnel is home to many canal boats, although generally the towpath is private access only. Walk alongside Blomfield Road, then detour along Aberdeen Place when the canal goes underground.
From the Maida Hill Tunnel to Camden Market the route is straightforward and right on Regent’s Canal. Along the way you’ll pass The Regent’s Park, including some grand villas and glimpses of London Zoo (which is otherwise off limits to dogs). It’s easy to detour to Primrose Hill Park for a picnic on the hill or grassy lawns.
Alternatively, wait until you get to Camden, where there’s plenty of street food stalls to select from at the Camden Lock Markets. The markets can be quite busy – when I visited with my small dog, we mainly carried him.
Note that the path is quite secluded, and there’s a few dingy areas just after the Maida Hill Tunnel, so I don’t recommend walking the path alone early or late in the day.
#6 Or Hire a Picnic Boat
Another option rather than walking along the Regent’s Canal, is to motor along the canal in your own private boat. GoBoat London hires electric picnic boats from multiple locations around the city, including at Merchant Square on the Paddington Basin.
Choose from a hire period between one and three hours – it takes 60 minutes to get to Cumberland Basin near Camden, where you’ll need to turn around. While a slow ride, it’s lovely and quiet. There’s enough room on the boat for up to eight people and/or dogs – yes, dogs are welcome onboard!
There are also three more locations around London where you can hire GoBoats – Canary Wharf, Kingston and Thames Ditton. Note that the Paddington location of GoBoat is an alcohol-free location.
#7 Go Punting at Cambridge
For a different type of boat ride, head north of London to Cambridge for a classic punt ride on the River Cam. A punt ride is one of the best ways to view the colleges, especially if you have a dog. While pet dogs aren’t allowed on college grounds, they are allowed on most punt rides, which provide excellent views as you pass through the colleges.
Choose from a dog-friendly guided punt tour with Cambridge Chauffeur Punts (also one of the best value tours), Scudamore’s or the Traditional Punting Company. Dogs are also welcome in most self-rental options, with canoes and kayaks also available from Granta Moorings and Scudamore’s. There’s also the option to follow the river to Grantchester.
A great spot to enjoy some more time on the river with your pup by your side is at the dog-friendly Fort St George, next to Midsommer Common. Dogs are allowed inside as well as in their extensive beer garden. Walk to the pub across the lawns of Jesus Green.
Check out my full guide to dog-friendly Cambridge
#8 Sniff the Gardens at Chiswick
A pretty spot to visit right in London with your dog is Chiswick House and Gardens. While many gardens are off limits to dogs, from Kew Gardens in London to the Botanic Gardens at Cambridge, these ornamental gardens are dog-friendly – and even have free entry!
Dogs should be kept on a short leash in the Italian Garden, the Kitchen Garden (previously off limits to dogs) and the cafe terrace, plus they are not allowed inside the house itself, the inside section of the cafe, the fenced picnic area or the cricket square. Waste bags are provided at each gate, plus plenty of dog waste bins throughout.
The gardens are a wonderful spot to explore, with many follies and sculptures dotted throughout, plus vistas of the grand Chiswick House, an 18th century villa. The Italian Garden next to the Conservatory is particularly pretty, plus the recently reopened Kitchen Garden offers great insight into what can be grown in your own garden.
#9 Go Shopping at Portobello Road Market
The Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill is one of the most famous markets in London. Originating as a fresh-food market in the 19th-century, these days it’s most famous for its antiques.
The main antique market takes place each week on Saturday, with the second busiest day being Friday. However, there are still some stalls selling fruit and vegetables, second-hand clothes, bric-a-brac and souvenirs other days of the week. The markets are only closed on Sundays and Thursday afternoons.
It’s a great spot to head with your dog and enjoy some shopping. I didn’t get the chance to visit on a Friday or Saturday, just mid-week when it was quieter and there weren’t that many stalls. However, there are also some interesting second-hand clothing boutiques lining Portobello Road that often are dog-friendly – look out for signs or ask at the entryway.
#10 Hike the Seven Sisters
There are plenty of wild stretches of countryside that you can easily access from London. One of my favourite spots are the Seven Sisters, the sea cliffs where the South Downs National Park meets the English Channel.
It’s about a 75 mile drive south of London to the Seven Sisters Country Park, or you can access this stretch of coast from Eastbourne, about an 80 minute ride on Southern Railway. A great full day hike is the 7-8 mile (11-13km) stretch of the South Downs Way between the edge of Eastbourne and the Seven Sisters Visitors Centre. You can easily return to Eastbourne station by bus.
Along the way you’ll pass not just the Seven Sisters Cliffs, but also Beachy Head and its Lighthouse, plus Burling Gap and its stairs to the beach below. Close to the Seven Sisters Visitors Centre, you can also access the wonderful Cuckmere Haven Beach, with dogs allowed off-leash on the beach year round.
#11 Walk in Richmond Park
London itself is also home to some wild expanses of parkland. One of the best spots to visit is Richmond Park in West London, a massive 2500 acres of parkland. One of the eight Royal Parks in London, its home to ancient trees and herds of deer.
While I didn’t spot any deer on my visit (its best to head to the Flying Field, the Sports Pitches or the areas around Duchess Wood), I enjoyed a wonderful stroll through the colourful azaleas of Isabella Plantation – the flowers are at their best late April and early May.
Dogs are allowed throughout most of Richmond Park. The one exception are the Pembroke Lodge Gardens, also home to the popular King Henry’s Mound vantage point. The nearby kiosk though stocks Scoops dog ice-cream!
Dogs don’t need to be kept leashed most of the year, except in Isabella Plantation, around the lakes and ponds and near deer. However, dogs need to be kept leashed throughout the park during the deer birthing season from 1st May to 31st July. Note that it is an offence for dogs to chase the deer.
#12 Explore Maritime Greenwich
At the other end of London is another of the Royal Parks, Greenwich Park. Although a visit to Greenwich offers much more than just a stroll in the park!
The Greenwich area has been UNESCO World Heritage listed as Maritime Greenwich. Some of its key historic sites include the Christopher Wren-designed Old Royal Naval College, the Queen’s House (the first Palladian building in England) and the Old Royal Observatory (home to the Prime Meridian).
While dogs are not allowed to join you inside the Old Royal Observatory or any of the other key buildings, it’s still possible to wander through the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College and admire the exterior of the Cutty Sark, before exploring the parklands.
Dogs are allowed off-leash throughout most of Greenwich Park. The main areas where dogs are not permitted are in the Flower Garden, Wilderness Deer Park and Royal Observatory Garden. Dogs also need to be kept leashed in the Rose Garden.
#13 Follow the Remains of the Roman Walls
To step back even further into the history of London, when it was first established by the Romans as Londinium, head to the City of London where you can still glimpse some of the Roman walls that once encircled the Roman settlement.
The most interesting section that I visited on my recent visit was near the Barbican, where the Noble Street Viewing Walkway overlooks a section of the wall and the Roman Fort of Londinium revealed by the Blitz. There are signs explaining the area in more detail. Note that the city’s medieval walls were built on top of the Roman walls, so you are usually looking at a combination of both.
There is a London Wall Walk that you can follow along the length of the former walls, stretching for 1 3/4 miles (2.8km) from the Tower of London to the old Museum of London site on London Wall, with 21 panels along the way. I was surprised to discover a section when I exited from the Tower Hill tube station, along with a replica statue of Trajan!
Although you can’t enter either the Tower of London or any of the Museum of London locations with a dog, they’re of course welcome to join you on this walking route.
#14 Visit Canterbury Cathedral
While most historic buildings and museums around England are off limits to pet dogs, there are a growing number of cathedrals that are welcoming dogs. One dog-friendly cathedral is Canterbury Cathedral, 60 miles southwest of London and also easily accessed by train.
Home to the archbishop of Canterbury, the most senior cleric of the Church of England, and regarded as the first cathedral in England, the church has great historic importance. It has been UNESCO World Heritage listed and I wish that I could have taken my dog inside when I visited in 2017.
After a successful trial in 2023, pet dogs are now permanently allowed to join you on a visit to Canterbury Cathedral, both the grounds and inside the building. Naturally, there are some rules, including that dogs are required to be kept on a short leash and you must clean up after them. Pet dogs are also not permitted on guided tours or mini talks, or at services.
#15 Enjoy a Day by the Sea at Whitstable
Not far from Canterbury is the seaside town of Whitstable, best known for its oysters and shingle beaches. It’s less than a 90 minute drive from London and a delightful spot to visit with a dog, particularly when the weather is sunny (unlike on the day I visited!)
There are two main beaches in Whitstable. Tankerton Beach is located to the east of Whitstable Harbour, its grassy slope behind lined with colourful beach huts – a great spot for photos! On the other side of the harbour is West Beach.
While dogs are permitted on both beaches during the winter months, between 1st May and 30th September dogs are not allowed on Tankerton Beach, between The Street and Pier Avenue. Instead head to West Beach for a run on the shingles, or stick to a walk on the promenade behind Tankerton Beach.
Of course, you can’t leave Whitstable without trying some of the local oysters. A great spot to visit with your dog is The Oyster Shed at the harbour. This casual eatery serves up oysters fresh from the local farms, either singly or by the dozen, plus other fresh seafood.
#16 See Street Art at Shoreditch
One of the most dog-friendly areas of London that I’ve visited is Shoreditch, with countless people fawning over my dog during our visit. The area is also home to some of the best and most extensive street art in London – perfect for exploring on foot with your dog by your side.
It’s possible to spot plenty of street art just wandering around the streets and laneways around Shoreditch High Street station and Brick Lane in neighbouring Spitalfields. However, to make sure you don’t miss the best murals, check out this guide, including an easy-to-use map.
Along the way you’ll also pass plenty of dog-friendly cafes and bars, plus markets. Just off Brick Lane, detour via the Truman Brewery Markets on weekends, with its array of street food vendors and stalls. Close to Liverpool Street Station, dogs are welcome inside the trader and art sections of Spitalfields Market, although some cafes and shops may have individual policies.
#17 Take a Boat Trip Along the Thames
To take in London from a different perspective, enjoy a cruise along the Thames. There are multiple cruises available, but the most affordable option is one of the river boats operated by Thames Clippers.
Thames Clippers operates between Putney and Barking Riverside, with multiple stops along both banks of the Thames. Perhaps enjoy a short trip through the centre of London or use the boats for a more scenic trip to Greenwich.
Both single and return tickets are available, as well as unlimited all-day passes. Tickets are cheapest if bought with a travelcard, or with an Oyster, online or on their app. Dogs are welcome onboard for free – just keep then on a leash.
#18 Explore the Colleges of Oxford
The picturesque university city of Oxford is just 60 miles west of London and easily reached by train in under an hour, making it ideal for a dog-friendly day trip from London.
Like with Cambridge, as far as I can tell dogs are not allowed inside the colleges. But it’s still possible to view many of the most impressive sights while walking around the city, including the Bridge of Signs, the exterior of the Radcliffe Camera and many college buildings.
After a walk through the city streets, I recommend following the 1.5 mile (2.4km) long Christ Church Meadow Trail. Make sure your dog remains on a leash, as the meadow is home to the college’s herd of longhorn cattle. Alternatively, hire a punt for an outing on the River Cherwell. Unlike in Cambridge, self-guided punt hires are more popular in Oxford.
Check out my full guide to visiting Oxford with a dog
#19 Enjoy a Dog-Friendly Afternoon Tea
A decadent way to spend the afternoon is relaxing over an Afternoon Tea at a plush hotel. And there’s no need for your dog to miss out on the experience.
AfternoonTea.co.uk has a listing of dog-friendly afternoon teas around the UK, including a small number of venues that have a special afternoon tea just for pups. One of the best options in London is at The Parlour at Great Scotland Yard Hotel, close to Trafalgar Square.
Situated in the historic former home of the Metropolitan Police, this five star hotel offers a range of afternoon teas, including a Bottomless Champagne Afternoon Tea. And every Sunday they offer a special Dog Afternoon Tea, in conjunction with Talula Eats. Your dog will enjoy a Fresh Doggie Bowl, Doggie Digestives and a Primrose Pupcake. Make a booking!
#20 Stroll Around Kensington Gardens
While Hyde Park may be larger and more famous, my pick of the parks in central London to enjoy a long stroll with your pup, and maybe a picnic on the lawns, is Kensington Gardens.
There is plenty to see on a stroll around Kensington Gardens. On the western side of the park is Kensington Palace. While dogs are not allowed inside, enjoy the lovely views of the exterior with your pup for free.
Don’t miss visiting the delightful Italian Gardens and Fountains at the northern edge of the park, the source of the Long Water. Walk down along its eastern side past peaceful meadows to The Arch, a Henry Moore sculpture that frames a beautiful vista across the waterway up to the palace. The Peter Pan statue on the opposite bank is also a popular spot.
Dogs are allowed off-leash in the majority of the park, although there are some restricted areas. Keep your dog leashed around the edge of the Round Pond, the Long Water and the Italian Fountains, and on the South and North Flower Walks. Dogs should also be kept out of the Long Water and Round Pond, plus off the popular Peter Pan statue.
There are some pathways that cyclists are allowed on – I recommend avoiding these and sticking to the quieter paths where there aren’t cyclists zipping by. Plus be wary of the swans around the Round Pond if you have a small dog.
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About the Author
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.