Why Dog-Friendly Holidays Are Booming In Norfolk

🐾 The rise of dog-friendly holidays in the UK

• Increased Travel Intentions: In 2025, a significant 80% of dog owners plan to take a dog-friendly holiday, marking a 75% increase from the previous year.
• Frequent Getaways: Many pet owners are opting for multiple trips with their dogs. Approximately 36.7% plan 3 to 5 overnight stays, and 31.3% intend on six or more overnight trips with their pets during the year.
• Economic Impact: The dog-friendly travel sector is projected to be worth nearly £40 billion by 2030, highlighting the growing demand for pet-inclusive travel options.

🐶 Why Are More People Traveling with Their Dogs?

• Emotional Bond: Many pet owners view their dogs as family members and prefer to include them in holiday plans to avoid separation anxiety.
• Cost Considerations: With boarding fees reaching up to £120 per night in some areas, taking dogs along can be a more economical choice for families.
• Pet-Friendly Accommodations: An increasing number of accommodations are offering pet-friendly amenities, making it easier for owners to travel with their dogs.

The post-pandemic puppy 🐶 🐾🐾 boom

Since the pandemic in 2020, the UK has seen a remarkable surge in dog ownership. With lockdowns and more people now working from home, many people turned to pets for companionship, comfort, and even mental health support. Kennel clubs and pet charities report that new registrations and adoptions skyrocketed during 2020–2022, creating what many call a “puppy boom.”

This increase hasn’t just changed the numbers — it’s reshaped how people travel. Many of these new dog owners want to include their pets in every aspect of life, from weekend breaks to longer holidays. The result? A sharp rise in demand for dog-friendly cottages, hotels, and attractions across the UK, especially in regions like Norfolk where beaches, countryside walks, and quaint villages make for ideal dog-friendly adventures.

For cottages like Gardeners Cottage in Blakeney, this trend has meant really focussing on designing spaces that truly welcome dogs — enclosed gardens, dog-friendly furnishings, and proximity to scenic walks — so both owners and their four-legged friends can enjoy a stress-free getaway.

🌟 Norfolk: A Top Destination for Dog-Friendly Holidays

Norfolk stands out as a premier location for dog-friendly holidays. Its expansive beaches, scenic countryside, and welcoming communities make it an ideal choice for pet owners. Many accommodations in Norfolk, including Gardeners Cottage in Blakeney, offer features tailored for dogs, such as enclosed gardens and proximity to dog-friendly beaches.

Discover Dog-Friendly Cottages in Norfolk: The Perfect Getaway for You and Your Pooch

Norfolk is a haven for dog lovers. With its sweeping sandy beaches, tranquil riverside paths, and quaint market towns, it’s a region that’s practically made for walks with your furry friends. But finding a truly dog-friendly place to stay can sometimes be a challenge — you want somewhere welcoming, comfortable, and with plenty of space for your dogs to explore safely.

That’s where Norfolk’s dog-friendly cottages come into their own. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer holiday, these cottages offer a perfect base for adventure. Imagine waking up in a cosy cottage, sipping your morning coffee while your dog sniffs around a securely fenced garden, then heading out for a day exploring the North Norfolk coast.

One standout option is Gardeners Cottage in Blakeney, which caters wonderfully to dog owners. It’s more than just “pet-friendly”; it’s thoughtfully designed to make both you and your dogs feel at home. With an enclosed garden, gated parking, dog-friendly throws on the furniture, and bowls ready for your pups, your four-legged companions are welcomed just as warmly as you are.

Nearby, the stunning coastline and countryside walks mean you’ll never be short of places to stretch your legs. Dogs can run freely along quiet beaches or through scenic paths, and many of the local pubs and cafes even welcome well-behaved dogs inside. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and adventure.

If you’re planning a dog-friendly Norfolk escape, check out our detailed page on staying with dogs at Gardeners Cottage for all the information you need, including how many dogs are allowed, facilities provided, and nearby walks: Dog-Friendly Gardeners Cottage in Blakeney.

Booking a cottage that’s truly dog-friendly makes your holiday stress-free, letting you focus on the fun parts: walking, exploring, and spending quality time with your pets. Norfolk’s charming villages, natural beauty, and welcoming dog-friendly cottages make it an ideal destination for anyone who doesn’t want to leave their canine friends behind.

So pack the lead, treats, and a favourite blanket — Norfolk is calling, and your dogs will love it just as much as you do.