Paws & Relax: The Ultimate Dog-Friendly Getaway Guide
Published 1st November
As the leaves turn golden and the air gets that crisp, cuddle-up feel, there’s one undeniable truth: it’s officially the season of snuggles, slippers, and spontaneous getaways. And who better to share those moments with than your favourite four-legged friend?
Whether your pup is a muddy-pawed explorer, a pampered prince, or a social butterfly who thinks every stranger is a new best friend, each property within Exclusive Collection offers its own take on the “Tails & Trails” experience - the perfect excuse to pack up the treats, grab the leash, and head off for a luxurious escape that’s as dog-friendly as it is human-heavenly.
So, let’s set the scene: roaring fires, plush beds, countryside strolls, and a Caboodle treat box that’s practically barking with goodies. Yes, we’re talking about a getaway where your dog is not just welcome, they’re celebrated. And with eight stunning properties across the UK, each with its own personality (and paw-sonality), there’s a perfect match for every pooch.
To give you a flavour of what each property is all about, we’ve asked the question: If this hotel were a dog breed, what would it be? Read on - we’re about to unleash some tail-wagging inspiration.
If our hotels were dog breeds, what would they be?
|
Property |
Breed Match |
Why They’re a Perfect Match |
|
Lainston House |
Adventurous Labrador |
Spot-on for woodland walks, foodie fun, and all-rounder energy. |
|
South Lodge |
Sensory-Seeking Whippet |
Suits peaceful pups who love nature, comfort, and a slower pace. |
|
Pennyhill Park |
Spa-Loving Chihuahua |
Big on luxury, small in size - perfect for pampered paws. |
|
The Castle Inn |
Sociable Cockapoo |
Friendly, relaxed, and full of character - ideal for a pub-style stay. |
|
The Manor House |
Elegant Spaniel |
Refined, affectionate, and happiest surrounded by beauty and the finer things. |
|
Fanhams Hall |
Energetic Border Collie |
Brilliant for the lively, quirky vibe and open grounds. |
|
Royal Berkshire |
The Charming Corgi |
Loyal, sociable, and treated like royalty in this warm, homely setting. |
|
Ansty Hall |
The Thoughtful Dachshund |
Curious, cuddly, and right at home in a place made for discovery. |
Lainston House – For the Adventurous Labrador
Labradors are the ultimate all-rounders: loyal, curious, and always hungry. Lainston House is their kind of place. With woodland trails to sniff out, a kitchen garden full of tempting smells, and plenty of space to stretch those legs, it’s ideal for dogs who love to roam and food lovers who love to feast. Whether you’re exploring the grounds or flopping by the fire, this Hampshire hideway is made for autumn adventures.
Your room opens straight onto the great outdoors, so morning strolls and muddy-pawed wanders are just a tail-wag away. And when it’s time to refuel, the Cedar Bar welcomes both two- and four-legged guests - with treats for pups and hearty bites for humans.
Why it’s paw-fect:
- Woodland walks straight from your doorstep
- Dog-friendly rooms with direct outdoor access, comfy beds, and bowls
- Pet-friendly dining in the Cedar Bar
- Local trails and footpaths for off lead exploring
South Lodge – For the Sensory-Seeking Whippet
Whippets are all about comfort, calm, and a good stretch of the legs - and South Lodge ticks every box. Tucked into the rolling South Downs, it’s the kind of place where dogs can sniff to their heart’s content, take gentle strolls through the grounds, and then curl up in their own bed for a well-earned snooze while their humans sneak off to the spa.
Some rooms even open straight onto the outdoors, so walkies are always on tap. And when it’s time to refuel, the Lounge welcomes muddy paws and hungry tummies alike, with treats for pups and relaxed dining for people. It’s a stay designed to help you switch off from the everyday and tune into the simple pleasures - fresh air, good food, and time together.
Why it’s paw-fect:
- Acres of countryside for peaceful exploring
- Dog-friendly lounges and relaxed dining
- Direct outdoor access from selected rooms
- Spa access for humans from 3pm arrival to 2pm departure
- Dog amenities including a bed, bowl, and treats
- A calming escape in the heart of the South Downs
Pennyhill Park – For the Spa-Loving Chihuahua
Small in size but big on luxury, Chihuahuas know how to live the pampered life - and Pennyhill Park is their perfect playground. With plush rooms, indulgent spa access (for humans), and 120 acres of parkland to explore, it’s ideal for dogs who love lounging in style while their humans soak up some serious R&R.
Your room comes with direct outdoor access, making strolls easy and convenient. And when it’s time to refuel, the Drawing Room welcomes both two- and four-legged guests - with treats for pups and elegant bites for people. So, pack for the whole family and give your trip the woof-factor.
Why it’s paw-fect:
- Elegant dog-friendly rooms with easy outdoor access
- Scenic walks through 120 acres of parkland
- Pet-friendly dining in the Drawing Room
- Spa access for humans from 3pm arrival to 2pm departure
- Dog amenities including a bed, bowl, treats, and a map of local walks
Fanhams Hall – For the Energetic Border Collie
Border Collies are bright, busy, and always on the move - and Fanhams Hall is the kind of place that keeps pace. With sprawling grounds, quirky gardens, and plenty of space to explore, it’s perfect for pups who love to sniff out new paths and make memories with their humans. This is an estate you’ll never forget, where every stick chased and trail discovered becomes part of a moment to remember.
Your dog-friendly room comes with all the essentials: a comfy bed, tasty treats, and space to stretch out. And with pet-friendly dining and a map of the grounds included, you’ll have everything you need for a getaway that’s as energetic or relaxed as you like.
Why it’s paw-fect:
- Acres of open space for off lead exploring
- Unique gardens and playful outdoor features
- Dog-friendly rooms with comfy beds and treats
- Pet-friendly dining options for relaxed meals together
- Grounds map included to help you explore every corner
Royal Berkshire – For the Charming Corgi
Corgis are loyal, sociable, and famously tied to royalty - and Royal Berkshire offers a stay that’s fit for a four-legged monarch. With its warm, homely atmosphere and leafy grounds, this is a place where dogs (and their humans) can truly relax. Whether you’re curling up in a comfy room or enjoying a stroll through the gardens, it’s all about feeling at home - and making it your own.
While the grounds offer a lovely setting for relaxed wanders, you’re also perfectly placed to venture further afield to explore the sweeping paths of Great Windsor Park, from Virginia Water to the Long Walk. It’s a countryside escape with a regal twist, where every pawstep feels like a welcome home.
Why it’s paw-fect:
- Cosy, dog-friendly rooms with thoughtful touches
- Peaceful grounds for lead-on strolls
- Easy access to Great Windsor Park for longer walks
- Pet-friendly dining options for relaxed meals together
- Dog amenities including a bed, bowl, and treat pack
The Manor House – For the Elegant Spaniel
Spaniels are graceful, affectionate, and happiest when surrounded by beauty - just like guests at The Manor House. Nestled in the heart of Castle Combe, one of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds, this is a countryside retreat that feels like stepping into a storybook. With its manicured gardens, honey-stone buildings, and timeless charm, it’s a place where dogs and humans alike can unwind in style.
Whether you’re strolling through the grounds or exploring the winding lanes of Castle Combe, every moment here feels special. It’s the kind of stay that invites you to slow down, soak up the scenery, and enjoy the finer things - together.
Why it’s paw-fect:
- Dog-friendly rooms with elegant touches and countryside views
- Beautiful gardens and plenty of space to explore
- Pet-friendly dining options for relaxed meals together
- Dog amenities including a bed, bowl, and treat box
- Located in Castle Combe, one of the Cotswolds’ most picturesque villages
Ansty Hall – For the Thoughtful Dachshund
Dachshunds may be small, but they’re full of curiosity and character - just like Ansty Hall. Tucked away in the Warwickshire countryside, this charming Georgian manor is a true home of discovery. With peaceful gardens, hidden corners, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s perfect for pups who love to sniff out new places and then burrow into a blanket for a well-earned nap.
Whether you’re exploring the grounds or venturing out to nearby walks, Ansty Hall offers a stay that’s warm, relaxed, and full of little surprises. It’s a place to slow down, stretch out, and enjoy the journey - together.
Why it’s paw-fect:
- Dog-friendly rooms with comfy beds and thoughtful touches
- Beautiful gardens and outdoor space to explore
- Pet-friendly dining options for relaxed meals together
- Dog amenities including a bed, bowl, and treats
- A countryside escape with plenty to discover
The Castle Inn – For the Sociable Cockapoo
Cockapoos are friendly, playful, and always up for a chat - and The Castle Inn is their kind of place. Right in the heart of Castle Combe, this cosy inn blends local charm with exceptional hospitality. It’s perfect for pups who love pub vibes, village strolls, and being part of the action.
And here’s the best bit: dogs stay free until the end of November. So, whether you’re curling up by the fire or heading out to explore the cobbled streets, this is a getaway that’s as welcoming as it is memorable - for every member of the family.
Why it’s paw-fect:
- Dogs stay free until the end of November
- Cosy, dog-friendly rooms full of character
- Pet-friendly dining in the pub
- Located in Castle Combe, with scenic walks right outside
- Dog amenities including a bed, bowl, and treats
Standardising Dog Friendliness Across the Estate
We know dogs aren’t just pets - they’re family. That’s why every Exclusive Collection property rolls out the red carpet for your furry companions. From comfy beds and bowls to dog-friendly lounges and scenic walks, we’re creating a consistent, paws-itively perfect experience across the board.
So, whether you’re booking a romantic retreat, a solo escape, or a full-on family adventure, your dog isn’t just invited - they’re expected. And no, you don’t need to match your pup to a breed to find the perfect stay. Whether your dog is a rescue mutt, a pedigree prince, or a lovable mix of everything, we’ve got a property that suits their personality - and yours.
Because when your dog feels at home, so do you.
Book Now, Wag Later
So, what are you waiting for? The fire’s crackling, the treats are packed, and the countryside is calling. Whether your dog is a trail-blazing Labrador, a spa-loving Chihuahua, or something entirely unique, there’s an Exclusive Collection property waiting to welcome you both with open arms and wagging tails.
Go on - fetch yourself a stay, pack the treats, and let the adventures begin...
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