Dog-Friendly London (2026): Your Ultimate Guide from a Dog-Owning Londoner!
Photo Cred: Andrew Richardson @ravenimagery
Looking to experience dog-friendly London? Here’s everything you need to know to have the best time in the city with your furry friend — from a dog-owning Londoner!
Written by Julie, and her two pups Betty & Bean 🐶
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I moved to London from Canada in 2020 with my 2 rescue dogs Betty & Bean.
We relocated for my husband’s job and arrived with zero knowledge of what life in London would be like with two small dogs in tow.
Turns out, it was the best move we ever made!
Dog culture in London is so wonderful that it would make anyone consider a trip across the pond with their furry best friend.
I’ve made it my mission to include Betty & Bean in everything we do since moving abroad and let me tell you, dog-friendly London does not disappoint.
In this post I’ll be sharing how to travel to London with your dog, dog-friendly transport in London, dog-friendly accommodation in London, dog-friendly hotels in London, dog-friendly cafes in London, dog-friendly brunch places in London, dog-friendly pubs in London, dog-friendly tourist attractions in London, dog-friendly parks in London, and finally a dog-friendly London FAQ to get all your doggie in London questions answered!
So let’s dig into all the great things a London dog can do when they embark on an adventure in the city!
Dog-Friendly London: Everything You Need to Know
P.S. – Coming to London? Have the perfect trip planned for you with our 3,5, or 7-Day London Tourist Itineraries 🇬🇧
How to Travel With Your Dog to London
To begin, let’s get the logistics out of the way, because while London itself is quite dog-friendly, getting your dog into England is an entirely different story.
A lot of the travel requirements and details will depend on the size of your dog and the country you are departing from.
In a nutshell though, you cannot fly into England with a dog in the plane’s cabin unless they are a registered service animal.
So, if you are travelling with a small dog that would normally fly with you, you will need to enter England via one of the UK Government approved animal entry points.
The best way to start your journey is by familiarising yourself with the guidelines for your specific country via GOV.UK’s pet guidance section and then take a trip to your local veterinarian to discuss the specific travel paperwork and vaccinations your pup will require to make the trip to London successfully.
Because each dog and country has its own unique entry requirements it’s difficult to provide specific information, but in our experience, one of the easiest ways to enter England with your dog, especially from Europe or North America, is via the Eurotunnel from Calais, France to Folkestone, England.
You can fly with a small dog in the cabin to France from North America easily; so when we relocated with Betty & Bean we did so via Paris. You can check out the Eurotunnel here.
Dog-Friendly Transport in London
Once you arrive in London getting around with your dog on public transport is a breeze!
All of London’s buses and the entire Tube network are dog-friendly, but dogs must be on a leash or in a carrier and be well-behaved.
The only provision is that dogs must be carried on escalators to prevent injury to their paws. This means that owners of larger dogs will have to use the stairs in the underground stations if their pets are too heavy to carry.
Not all stations have stairs so it’s important to research access before you set out if carrying your dog is a concern.
Guide and assistance dogs are permitted to use the escalators as long as they have been issued a pass that demonstrates they have been trained to use them safely.
Overall in our experience, dogs are always welcome on transport and while it can be busy and noisy at times, it’s the most affordable and convenient way to get around London with your dog.
P.S. – It’s important to note, that Transport for London staff can refuse entry to your animal if they have safety concerns. See more info here.
Dog-Friendly Accommodation in London
My personal experience when it comes to booking accommodation with your dog while travelling is that short term accommodations in London over hotels are often more relaxing.
It provides more of a home base for your dog to get comfortable and also a safe place where you can leave them alone if you choose to adventure on your own to non-dog-friendly activities.
Often hotels do not allow you to leave your dog unaccompanied in the room which is tricky when you’re travelling with your pup; as 12-hour days out adventuring, does not allow for enough napping!
If you can, find a dog-friendly short-term accommodation option in a Central London neighbourhood like Notting Hill, Kensington, Maida Vale, Hampstead or even St. John’s Wood.
These leafy green neighbourhoods are close to public transit so you can enjoy both a local vibe and have easy access to the city centre via the Tube.
Dog-Friendly Hotels in London
If pampering your pup with a dog-friendly hotel experience is more your vibe, here’s 3 centrally located hotels that you and your dog are sure to enjoy.
I’ve chosen these because they are all within a 5 minute walk to one of London’s large green spaces and will happily welcome you and your dog.
The Milestone Hotel & Residences:
Located opposite Kensington Palace and near Royal Albert Hall you’ll be walkable at The Milestone to the Tube and quite a few desirable London neighbourhoods — such as South Kensington, Holland Park, and Notting Hill.
It’s also the perfect location for a daily walk in glorious Kensington Gardens with your pup.
The Royal Lancaster London:
Located directly across from Hyde Park The Royal Lancaster will welcome your dog with open arms!
A plush dog bed and food bowls can be provided and you can even get high tea for your dog here.
Located at Lancaster Gate on the Central Line it doesn’t get better than this location wise.
Holmes Hotel:
Tucked in posh Marylebone and a few minutes walk to stunning Regent’s Park; Holmes Hotel is where your dog can wander each day before you set out on your London adventures.
Adventures that will be made much more convenient thanks to the hotel’s close proximity to Baker Street Tube station.
Marylebone itself has a vibrant high street, great restaurants and it’s only a 15-minute walk to the infamous and dog-friendly, Selfridges.
Dog-Friendly Cafes in London
Dining out in London is even more joyful when you’re accompanied by your furry best friend.
The city’s thriving food scene has extended its hospitality to include our canine companions, giving rise to a delightful trend of dog-friendly restaurants in London.
From cosy cafés to historical pubs, London offers a plethora of places where you can dine with your four-legged friend.
Let’s start with cafes because you can’t start Londoning without your morning coffee!
My absolute favourite dog-friendly London cafe is right in the heart of beautiful Chelsea; the perfect way to start your day and fuel up for some shopping along the King’s Road perhaps?
Love My Human Townhouse:
At Love My Human Townhouse you and your dog can dine together in a cosy atmosphere where dogs aren’t just welcomed, they are the main attraction!
Here you’ll find 2 food menus, one for you and one just for your dog; both equally as delicious…
Farm Girl Cafe:
If Instagram-worthy avocado toast paired with a latte topped with dog art is up your street, try Farm Girl Cafe.
With three dog-friendly locations across the city in South Kensington, Notting Hill and Soho, it’s both trendy and delicious.
Black Sheep Coffee:
Perhaps you’re on the run or in need of an afternoon caffeine boost, don’t worry I’ve got you covered!
Black Sheep Coffee with over 50 locations across London, from Canary Wharf to Battersea, are dog-friendly and happy to accommodate you and your pup.
Serving superior coffee, yummy snacks and food, you can rest with your pooch and plan the next stop on your London itinerary.
Bonus! Many of the Black Sheep Coffee locations are near public transport.
Read More: 3 Woofing Best Dog Cafes in London
Dog-Friendly Brunch in London
If you’re like me and finding the best brunch while travelling is top of your list, look no further because dog-friendly London brunch does not disappoint.
Megan’s Restaurants:
Megan’s Restaurants is an independent neighbourhood chain serving Mediterranean-inspired food located in many of London’s desirable areas such as Wimbledon, Richmond, Kensington and more.
With dog treats on arrival and dog beds to borrow while you dine, it’s truly a dog lover’s delight.
My suggestion? Try the Iced coffee, it’s a must and if the sun is shining definitely dine outdoors as many of their locations have fabulous terraces.
Watchhouse Bermondsey:
Other tasty brunch options include Watch House in Bermondsey. A great place to indulge before visiting Tower Bridge.
Pups are welcomed with a free dog biscuit and brunch is served until 3pm all week (4pm on weekends).
With over 10 locations in London, it’s definitely one to add to your list.
Chestnut Bakery:
If wandering Covent Garden or window shopping in Belgravia is on your list, stop for a dog-friendly brunch at Chestnut Bakery.
The flatbreads are freshly baked from their clay oven and their pastry display rivals any French patisserie.
You can feast on sourdough toastie or eggs on mornay flatbread while your dog is warmly welcomed just like any other human.
Dog-Friendly Pubs in London
If you’re in London I’m sure you want to experience the joys of a traditional British pub with the company of your beloved pup.
In our experience, most London pubs allow dogs; with cosy interiors and often spacious outdoor areas, these pubs create a relaxed setting where dogs can socialise as much as their human counterparts.
Trafalgar Tavern:
One of my absolute favourite pubs is the Trafalgar Tavern in Greenwich.
Take your pup for a big stroll in Greenwich Park and work up an appetite!
The Sunday roasts are delish and they are dog-friendly inside and of course on the terrace.
Betty and Bean love a table next to the roaring fire on a chilly day, but definitely book ahead if a Sunday lunch is on your itinerary.
The view is so beautiful; you’re in for a treat rain or shine.
The Dickens Inn:
If a view of Tower Bridge is what you’re after try The Dickens Inn with its dog-friendly bar and terrace.
Located on St. Katherine Dock it’s less than a 10-minute walk from Tower Bridge and oozes historical charm.
Brew Dog:
With the word ‘dog’ in their name how could we not recommend Brew Dog?
Dog-friendly and a craft beer connoisseur’s heaven with locations across the city, you can’t really go wrong here.
Also, if you want to share a pint with your pooch you can!
Order a Subwoofer IPA, Brew Dog’s signature dog beer and quench your thirst together.
Dog-Friendly Tourist Attractions in London
London’s dog-friendly tourist attractions and activities make it a welcoming destination for you and your four-legged friend.
With sprawling open spaces and cultural spots to admire you won’t have a hard time enjoying the city together.
Tower Bridge:
The Tower Bridge Experience is London’s only dog-friendly major attraction.
You can climb to the top of the bridge with your dog and explore inside this historical monument. Learn about the incredible history of this working bridge, admire iconic views and even walk across the glass floors to see London from a whole new angle.
It’s London’s only major dog-friendly attraction.
Dog-Friendly Activities and Experiences in London
Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour by City Sightseeing:
@betty_and_bean MUST DO: Dog Friendly London #bettyandbean #foryoupage #dogsoftiktok #dogfriendly #dogfriendlytravel #dogfriendlyuk #dogfriendlyplaces #dogtraveltips ♬ Music For a Sushi Restaurant – Harry Styles
A perfect way to start your trip and ensure you get to see all the historic monuments and tourist attractions is to take advantage of the London Hop-On-Hop Off Bus Tour by City Sightseeing.
It’s London’s only dog-friendly bus tour and a fantastic way to see the city with your dog.
Grab yourself a top-floor seat and watch your dog enjoy London with the breeze in their face while you plug into an audio tour.
Westminster Pier to Greenwich Boat Ride:
Another great dog-friendly activity is to take the river bus from Westminster Pier to Greenwich.
The river bus is operated by Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, but you can tap in just as you would London’s Underground service with your Oyster Card or contactless.
The boats allow dogs of all sizes as long as they are well-behaved and on leash. Betty and Bean enjoyed a window seat!
Upon arrival in Greenwich, you can take in all the historic sights from the outside only.
Admire the Cutty Sark and The Queens House and then stroll through picturesque Greenwich Park, where your pup can revel in lush landscapes and breathtaking city views.
Emirates Cable Car:
If you’re feeling adventurous, make your way to the IFS Cloud Cable Car (renamed) at the Greenwich Peninsula.
Ride the cable car with your dog and soak in the most beautiful view over the River Thames on your 1.1 km journey 90 metres above the ground!
While here you’ll see Canary Wharf, The O2 2 Arena and Olympic Park, and riding at sunset is a beautiful way to end your day.
Tickets start at £8 and can be purchased in advance, but it’s not necessary, we just waited in the queue for about 15 minutes to ride.
Borough Market:
The great thing about London with your dog is that there are outdoor experiences that rival any museum tour or gallery.
Take yourself and your pup to the bustling Borough Market and walk amongst the stalls run by passionate vendors — a true bucket list experience that captures the essence of ‘London life’.
Dog-Friendly Parks in London
I would be remiss writing a dog-friendly London blog if I didn’t tell you to spend a day with your dog in one of London’s glorious green spaces.
London’s parks warmly embrace canine companions and provide a haven for both dogs and their owners alike.
From the sprawling fields of Hyde Park, where dogs can play freely off-leash, to the lush expanses of Hampstead Heath, perfect for adventurous hikes and refreshing swims in the ponds, these green spaces are the perfect escape from the city’s hustle.
Our personal favourite are Kensington Gardens, including a stroll down the Serpentine and a stop a the dog-friendly Serpentine Lido Cafe for a Pimms cup on the roof terrace. (open seasonally from April to September).
London parks are also the best place to meet and mingle with other dog owners. The dog culture in London is massive and you’re guaranteed to meet other dog lovers when you spend a day at the park.
Read More: 50+ Best Parks and Gardens in London
Dog-Friendly London FAQ
- Are dogs allowed on London trains?
Yes! Dogs are allowed on all National Rail services as long as they are on a lead or in a carrier and are well-behaved. You can travel with up to 2 pets free of charge.
- Are dogs allowed on London buses?
Yes! Dogs are allowed on London buses as long as they are on a lead or in a carrier and are well-behaved.
- Are dogs allowed on public transport in London?
Yes! Dogs are allowed on London public transport including buses and the London Underground as long as they are on a lead or in a carrier and are well-behaved.
The only provision is that dogs must be carried on escalators to prevent injury to their paws. This means that owners of larger dogs will have to use the stairs in the Underground stations if their pets are too heavy to carry.
Not all Tube stations have stairs so it is important to research access before you set out if carrying your dog is a concern.
Guide and assistance dogs are permitted to use the escalators as long as they have been issued a pass that demonstrates they have been trained to use them safely.
- How dog-friendly is London?
Compared to North America, London is very dog-friendly.
Dogs are allowed in most pubs, some restaurants and all public transit.
London’s largest green spaces such as Hyde Park, Regent’s Park and Hampstead Heath are also all dog-friendly and leash-free in most parts.
- Where are dogs allowed in London?
Dogs are allowed in most pubs, some restaurants/cafes and all public transit.
London’s largest green spaces such as Hyde Park, Regent’s Park and Hampstead Heath are also all dog-friendly and leash-free in most parts.
Dogs are allowed in some large shops such as John Lewis and Selfridges.
Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed in any museums or tourist attractions such as Buckingham or Kensington Palace. The only major dog-friendly tourist attraction is The Glass Walkway at Tower Bridge.
- Can I take my dog to a museum in London?
No, unfortunately, London museums are not dog-friendly.
- Are dogs allowed on the London Eye?
No, unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on the London Eye.
- Are dogs allowed in London Taxis?
Yes, most London Black Cabs will allow you to ride with your dog.
- Are dogs allowed at the London Zoo?
Dogs are not permitted on-site at the London Zoo with the exception of accredited guide and service dogs with the required paperwork. Sorry!
I’d love to hear how Londoning with your dog went for you! I’m always on the hunt for new dog-friendly London activities for Betty & Bean.
Wishing you and your pup the best of luck in your next adventure together!
xoxo Julie & The B’s 🐾🐾
About the Author:
Photo Cred: Andrew Richardson @ravenimagery
Julie Shannon is a content creator and dog Mum to @betty_and_bean the cutest, most unlikely duo you’ll ever meet!
She shares their rescue story and fur family life daily through reels and videos. Follow along to take part in their London life of adventures and naps, and everything in between.
Thanks for reading Our Dog-Friendly Guide to London. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
CHECK OUT MORE LONDON GUIDES:
Happy Londoning,
