TOP DOG-FRIENDLY ROYAL GETAWAYS
Crowned hounds are welcomed at castles and lodges fit for kings and queens
With the nation Febrezing the bunting ahead of the big, Jubilee celebrations, we’ve rounded up eight regal getaways which have been fit for kings and queens and now welcome Britain’s true royalty, the ones with four legs and soggy noses.
So pack your poshest poo bags for the crown jewels of dog-friendly escapes, with the bow-wow factor.
Cliveden House, Berkshire Meghan Markle spent her final night as a mere civilian at this impossibly regal, country house hotel, before getting hitched to Prince Harry the following day.
Distinguished dogs can also enjoy this five-star, historic hotel complete with the welcome ‘ceremony’ of a gourmet meal from the chef's canine menu, bed, bowl, feeding mat, towels, treats and walking map to take in some of the 376 acres of stunning grounds.
From £445 p/n.
Great Fosters Hotel, Surrey This Tudor estate has had so many royals through its doors, it probably has scuff marks from all the crowns - it was used as a hunting lodge by King Henry VIII, bears an original, Queen Elizabeth royal crest above the main porch and enjoyed a visit from Queen Mary in 1931, among many other royal landmarks.
Located near Windsor, pets and their people can now enjoy regal heritage, fine dining and an amble through the acclaimed gardens, with a doggy afternoon tea also available to those enjoying the exclusive PetsPyjamas Barking Britain package.
From £573 for two adults and one dog.
Thornbury Castle, Gloucestershire This castle is loaded with royal drama. Originally conceived and constructed by Edward Stafford - the only man to rival the king’s wealth and status at the time - the 16th century hotel was a display of wealth and ambition that Henry VIII did not take kindly to.
After Stafford was found guilty of treason, the king took control of the castle and it briefly became a retreat for Henry and Anne Boleyn.
Nowadays, four-legged guests can act like canine royalty enjoying cooked breakfasts and stately strolls around 14 acres of unspoiled grounds.
From £339 p/n.
Palé Hall Hotel, Wales Queen Victoria was so enchanted by this luxurious, country hotel when she visited in 1889 as part of a royal North Wales tour, she rearranged her itinerary so that she could stay much longer than the ten days originally planned.
She had a favourite walk through the grounds, down to the river that can be retraced for a dog walk today when staying at this luxurious country hotel with five AA Red Stars.
From £295 p/n, with a two-night PetsPyjamas exclusive package from £925.
Lainston House, Hampshire Previously known as the home of Charles II and his mistress Louise de Keroualle before he died in 1685, this historical gem is now a five-star luxury country house hotel in Winchester, where top dogs can indulge in lavish interiors, an award-winning restaurant and stunning location.
From £335 p/n.
Cowley Manor, Gloucestershire The land on which this contemporary country house hotel sits, once belonged to the kings of England and was exchanged by Edward the Confessor in return for the land on which he built Westminster Abbey.
While Westminster Abbey may trump Cowley for pomp and ceremony, a dog will enjoy playing lord or lady of the manor, romping through the lawns and beautiful Grade II listed gardens at this upmarket Cotswolds’ bolthole.
From £245 p/n.
Down Hall Hotel & Spa, Essex First recorded in the 10th century, Down Hall was once a royal estate of Harold II before it fell into the possession of William the Conqueror after the battle of Hastings in 1066.
Fast forward many, many centuries and it's now a contemporary country mansion, where discerning hounds can enjoy walks through 110 acres of woodland, parkland and landscaped gardens, as well as time with their human companion in the lounges and outdoor restaurant terrace.
With the exclusive PetsPyjamas Barking Britain package they are also treated to a box of dog goodies, a dog passport at check-in and sausage at breakfast.
A two-night Barking Britain package starts at £526 for two adults, one dog.
Danesfield House Hotel & Spa, Buckinghamshire This dog-friendly property set within 65 acres of manicured gardens and situated by the River Thames is brimming with history as far back as 1725 and was once the wartime home to the Intelligence Section of the RAF, known as RAF Medmenham.
The unit specialized in photographic intelligence and was the ‘eyes’ to Bletchley Park’s ‘ears’.
With a gorgeous, tree-lined drive that winds beneath the striking Clock Tower and whitewashed exterior, a dog will feel as though they have arrived when visiting.
They can also expect to be waited on ‘paw and paw’ with services such as dog sitting, grooming and walking at one’s disposal. From £279 p/n. You can check out more than 18,000 other stays fit for your regal beagles and Very Important Pets over on PetsPyjamas
If you’re not woofing up rooms here for a right, royal knees-up, check out our ultimate guide to bossing Jubilee weekend like a Queen. SPOILER: It features a CORGI CAFE and DOGSTIVAL Pawtinum Jubilee party.
And for those wanting some hair of the dog to toast HRH’s excellent throne-time (with or without four-legged company) check out our guide to the best boozers near Buckingham Palace.
