Sometimes, we all need a change of scenery, a new challenge or experience - and our furry friends are no different! There’s a world out there to explore, yet sometimes it can be hard to find the inspiration for your next adventure.

Whether you’re looking to travel further afield, or get out locally, there are plenty of options available for you and your pup. Below, we delve into some of the different experiences in the UK that you and your pet can embark on.

Castles and Heritage Sites

The UK has a very rich history, and there are plenty of historic landmarks for you and your pup to discover. Castles, and other heritage monuments, make for a fantastic day out for the whole family (four legged members included!). With plenty of walking, and lots to explore, it’s a guaranteed way of tiring out all parties!

When planning your trips, it is important to do your research to make sure that the site you’re visiting is dog friendly, and that any other places you intend to visit on the day are also pup-permitting. Make sure you remember the essentials, such as water, treats and plenty of poo bags.

National Parks

Visit some of the country’s most incredible scenery at one of the 15 national parks in the UK. These protected areas of land hold exciting walks and trails with some breathtaking views for you and your dog to enjoy. 

Distributed all throughout the UK, your nearest National Park is likely not too far away from where you live; spanning all the way from Dartmoor in Devon, to the Cairngorms in Aberdeenshire. 

National parks often feature beautiful lakes, mountains, waterfalls, and rivers, brimming with wildlife, making a perfect trip out for you and your furry friends. With acres of space for your dog to explore, national parks can also make for a fantastic holiday. Click here to check out The National Trust’s list of dog-friendly cottages to turn a day-out into a holiday!

A Trip to the Beach

With summer upon us, a trip to the seaside is a brilliant way to let your dog off the lead and enjoy a relaxing day out on the sand. Beaches are a play haven for pups, with plenty of flat room to stretch their legs and play fetch, water to paddle in, and sand to dig at, your pup is bound to love the seaside.

The UK contains some beautiful stretches of coastline, often with plenty to do when you visit, with picturesque coastal towns and villages being very popular for tourism. Beaches remain a popular place for dogs due to their accessibility, and acceptance for dogs, with few beaches in the UK prohibiting dogs. And for those that live further inland, you can even extend your stay to a mini break! 

Before you plan your trip to an unfamiliar beach, it’s really important to check with the local authority to check on any seasonal restrictions to dogs on the beach.

Remember that when taking your pooch out in public places, especially when let off their lead, that they must be equipped with a legible tag displaying all their relevant information. Our range of reinforced tags are the perfect tag for those long beach walks, designed with exceptional durability to last through their adventures, click here to view our range.

Bike Rides

Sometimes, we can’t always keep up with our dog’s energy, however, a bike ride will be sure to tire out your furry friend. With plenty of trails across the UK, a bike ride is the perfect way to explore with your pup in the great outdoors, with the option to pedal locally, or travel beyond your borough.

Bike rides are also a fantastic way to improve both you, and your dog’s fitness, as well as a way of getting outdoors and adventuring. For those that don’t own a bike, or don’t know how to ride one, you can substitute this activity with a run, so that you both get that dose of exercise you need!

Woodland Walks and Treasure Trails

Treat your dog to a trip to the countryside and plan your route with a walk in the woods, or a treasure trail! 

Taking your dog to wooded areas is not only a fantastic way of allowing them to exercise, but a brilliant way of allowing them to pick up different scents. These scenic adventures make for a tranquil day out surrounded by nature, a change to the usual walk around the block. Treasure trails are also brilliant for families, keeping children entertained while your dog is free to explore the surrounding wildlife. 

Conclusion

Sometimes, we all get caught up in a routine, and don’t tend to get out of our comfort zone. Switching up your routine by spending the day in the great outdoors is a great way of resetting yourself, allowing you, and your dog a break from the usual! If you’re looking for something a little different, check out Canine Cottage’s website for other ideas for your days out.

The most important thing to remember is your dog’s safety on their travels. The Control of Dogs Order 1992 states that every dog in a highway or public place must wear a collar with the name and address of the owner inscribed on the collar or on a plate or badge attached to it.