17-05-2025
Scotland's best dog-friendly beer garden revealed in country's ‘oldest pub'
Scroll down to see the full top 10
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BEER garden weather is here - and Scots will be looking for the perfect pint with their pups.
A recent study shows that 40 per cent of UK drinkers consider enjoying a cool drink in the sunshine as their 'ultimate happy place', with many visiting pub gardens up to five times a month in summer.
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An increasing number of people are planning dog-inclusive city breaks
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The Sheep Heid Inn came out on top for Scotland
Meanwhile, as an increasing number of people are planning dog-inclusive city breaks, pubs are stepping up.
In fact they are going above and beyond 'dogs allowed' and offering tailored hospitality for four-legged visitors, including dog snacks behind the bar, water bowls on arrival and nearby green space for post-pint strolls.
Experts at Dog Friendly Retreats have scoured Google reviews and TripAdvisor scores to find the best bars with dog menus and green spaces to find the UK's top 10 pooch-friendly spots.
And one Scots venue features in the ranking.
The Sheep Heid Inn in Edinburgh ranks number one for Scotland.
Nestled at the foot of Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh, this venue holds the title of Scotland's oldest pub, dating back to 1360.
The Dog Friendly Retreats team said: "Charming, yes. And its beer garden is a perfect spot for al fresco dining and drinks on a sunny day.
"Why does it come up trumps in our top doggy pubs? According to a review on Dog Furiendly, 'this 600-year-old pub is completely dog friendly and they even welcome our tail-wagging friends to join us on the skittle alley'.
"Additionally, notes that 'they welcome dogs, provide water and even a dog bed', ensuring your canine companion is comfortable during your visit."
Newcastle takes the crown as the UK's most dog-friendly pub city.
Inside luxury dog-friendly glamping pod with wild Scottish spa and its own fairy pools
The analysis, which scored 100 expert-recommended pubs, also found that the top venue in the UK was Brandling Villa in South Gosforth.
It took the number one spot thanks to its full dog menu - complete with Sunday roasts for pups - and quirky beer garden, with lots of shade for dogs during the summer.
The Tyne Bar and Free Trade Inn, both local favourites near the Ouseburn Valley, also made the top 10, showcasing the North East as a top-tier region for dog-loving pub-goers.
TOP OF THE PUPS
HERE is the full UK top 10 with a Dog-Friendliness Score out of 100:
Brandling Villa, Newcastle - 63.5
The Greyhound Inn, Coventry - 58.6
The Cliff, Poole - 51.7
The Fishermans Arms, Plymouth - 51.5
The Tyne Bar, Newcastle - 51.3
Free Trade Inn, Newcastle - 50.8
The Cutty Sark, London - 49.8
The Dirty Onion, Belfast - 49.6
The Wharf, Manchester - 49.1
The Sheep Heid Inn, Edinburgh - 45.6
Josh Williams from Dog Friendly Retreats added: "We know that more people than ever are travelling with their dogs, and city pubs with outdoor space offer a perfect way to include pups in holiday-maker plans.
"These spots don't just allow dogs, they celebrate them."
