London is one of Europe’s most dog-friendly cities, making it an ideal getaway for dog lovers eager to explore with their four-legged friends. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or a longer stay, the city offers an array of sights, experiences, and activities to keep tails wagging and pet parents happy. Here’s a six-stop itinerary featuring some of London’s bestdog-friendly spots, fun venues and events tailored for dogs, plus some nearby eateries that welcome both you and your pooch.
Hyde Park – For playtime and leisurely walks
Address: Hyde Park, London, W2 2UH
Dog policy: Dogs are welcome off-lead in most areas but should be kept on leads near the Serpentine Lake and in particularly busy sections.
Entry: Free
Hyde Park is a spacious, iconic park in central London, and it’s a must-visit for dog owners. With over 350 acres, it offers ample space for dogs to roam, sniff, and explore freely. In the early morning or late afternoon, the park is filled with local dog walkers, making it a great place to socialise for both dogs and their owners. The park features open lawns, wooded areas, and shaded trails, plus the Serpentine Lake where you and your dog can enjoy the calming views.
Nearby eateries: The Lido Café on the Serpentine serves brunch and lunch and has an outdoor seating area where dogs are welcome. Alternatively, The Magazine near the Serpentine Gallery offers pet-friendly dining options with a modern, seasonal menu.
Battersea Park – A playground for pups and people alike
Address: Battersea Park, Battersea, London, SW11 4NJ
Dog policy: Mostly off-lead friendly but keep dogs on leads near Battersea Children’s Zoo and during special events.
Entry: Free
Battersea Park offers everything a dog could want – from large, open spaces to water features and quiet, shady paths. The park’s Dog Agility Area is especially popular, with obstacles and training equipment that’ll keep even the most energetic pups entertained. In addition, the park frequently hosts dog-friendly events, such as pop-up dog shows and pet fairs. Nearby eateries: Pear Tree Café inside the park has outdoor seating that welcomes dogs and serves a varied menu. Just a short walk away, The Prince Albert Pub offers dog-friendly interiors and an array of hearty British pub meals, perfect for an after-park snack.
The All Dogs Matter Charity Walk – A community event with a cause
Location: Locations vary; most commonly in Hampstead Heath
Dog policy: Dogs should remain on leads during organised walks.
Entry: Around £10-£15 per dog, with proceeds benefiting dog rescue charities
All Dogs Matter is a local charity hosting regular charity dog walks and events to support unwanted and abandoned dogs. Their popular charity walks often take place at dog-friendly Hampstead Heath, and it’s a wonderful opportunity for you and your dog to join a pack of friendly pooches for a leisurely walk through nature while supporting a good cause. Check their website for the schedule and bring along a lead, as dogs may need to remain close to owners during group events. Nearby eateries: The Flask in Hampstead Village is an inviting dog-friendly pub offering a menu of traditional British fare. Alternatively, The Garden Gate near the Heath is known forits spacious garden and laid-back, pet-welcoming vibe.
Afternoon tea – Especially for dogs!
Address: 146 Battersea High Street SW11 3JR
Dog policy: All dogs welcome; off-lead indoors but supervised.
Entry: Free (with a dog afternoon tea costing £14 and human afternoon tea or bottomless cake experiences starting at £23)
Another Battersea stalwart is the award-winning Jack and Beyond bakery and café – famous for their bottomless cake offerings – who also offer sweet treats especially for your lucky pooch. After working up an appetite in Battersea Park, head to Jack and Beyond for theirspecial dog afternoon tea, which includes such handmade delicacies as Lamb Liver & Veggie Stew, Banana Wooffins and Carrot Pupcakes and is especially fun if you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy experience with your pooch. Pre-booking is essential and must include at least one human sweet afternoon tea or cream team experience. Opening hours
are 07:30 – 17:00 Monday to Saturday and 09:00 – 17:00 on Sundays.
Thames Riverboat Ride – Take in London’s sights with a pawsome view
Location: Thames Clippers routes, boarding available at various piers
Dog policy: Dogs are welcome aboard, on-lead at all times.
Entry: Free for dogs; human ticket prices start from £5.60 (with options for day passes)
The Thames River Boat Ride is a unique way to sightsee in London while avoiding crowded streets and byways. Thames Clippers allows dogs to ride for free, and the views along the way include iconic London landmarks like Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament. The boats are spacious, with outdoor decks where dogs can enjoy the fresh breeze as you cruise the river.
Nearby eateries: At the Embankment Pier stop, The Blackfriar is a nearby pub with outdoor seating that also allows dogs inside, while Gordon Ramsay’s Street Pizza in Southwark welcomes both small dogs and guide dogs inside and offers affordable, all-you-can-eat pizza. Dog policies vary at other Gordon Ramsey restaurants and can be found on the website.
The Mutz Nutz – One of London’s favourite Pet Boutiques & Spas
Location: 221 Westbourne Park Road, London W11 1EA
Dog policy: All pets welcome!
Entry: Free. Call 020 7243 3333 to book an appointment and get prices for the in-house WildWash Spa.
After a busy morning of sightseeing, what could be better for resting those tired paws than a bit of retail therapy and a good pamper session. Enter the amusingly named The Mutz Nutz in one of London’s most dog-friendly areas, Notting Hill.
Established over 20 years ago, The Mutz Nutz was one of the first Pet Boutiques & Spas toopen in the capital and is still favoured by locals and visitors today, offering an exciting arrayof pet toys, treats and food (with a try before you buy policy sure to please the pickiest of pooches!) alongside their popular WildWash Spa, which is open Monday to Saturday 9am till 6pm.
Once your pooch is feeling suitably refreshed after their trip to the spa, check out the colourful streets of Notting Hill where there are plenty of highly-rated dog-friendly eateries, pet shops and vets on hand and even the famous Portobello Road Market is dog-friendly.Nearby eateries: Local institutions The Westbourne and The Cow are both pet-friendly pubsand for coffee lovers, Farm Girl Café on Portobello Road offers a cosy, dog-welcoming environment with a menu focused on fresh, organic ingredients – they even have “puppuccinos” for your four-legged guests!
Getting around London with your dog
London’s public transport system is remarkably dog friendly. Dogs are allowed on the Tube,buses, and trains, usually for free. Dogs do need to be kept on leads and are required toavoid seats though. When it comes to taxis, services like Uber Pet or many local black cabsare also pet-friendly options.
Some final tips to avoid a chaotic trip:
- Bring a lead and harness, because although London may be dog-friendly, leads are required in certain areas and on public transport.
- Mind the crowds: Tube stations, particularly those in central London, can be crowded and stressful for dogs, so try to avoid the rush hour if possible.
- Pack essentials: Carry water and a portable water bowl, waste bags, treats and any other essentials to keep your pet comfortable throughout the day.
With a little planning, London offers a fantastic blend of nature, culture, and entertainment for both you and your pooch!