Scotland has lots of nature to explore, but there is plenty of history to uncover too. With Glasgow, Edinburgh and the Highlands all to explore, there are more than enough dog friendly days out in Scotland.
The Best Places To Take Dogs in Scotland
Castles can be seen from the south to the north – Caerlaverock, Castle Campbell, Balmoral, Stirling and Edinburgh are just some of the fortifications you can visit.
Cultural Glasgow, Dundee and Aberdeen have museums, galleries and fine-dining places and the traditional villages are where you’ll find dog-friendly pubs and craft shops to tour.
For more dog friendly attractions in Scotland, see our compiled list below:
Activities & Things to Do
Find below 7 of the best days out in Scotland for dogs
1. Enjoy The Scottish Beaches
Scotland has miles of coast with much of it unspoilt and ideal for walking with Fido. Cramond Beach near Edinburgh is a favourite with locals as it’s an antidote to the capital city’s busy atmosphere. The fishing village atmosphere makes it an ideal place to blow the cobwebs away. On the opposite coast near Ayr, Prestwick Beach is long, sandy and backed by a quiet promenade. With views across the Firth of Clyde and a cosy café serving warm drinks, a walk along this beach will get your doggy’s tail wagging.
2. Climb Down To The Devil’s Pulpit
Officially called Finnich Glen, The Devil’s Pulpit can be found a few miles from Loch Lomond. To get to the site, you must climb down Jacob’s Ladder, an ancient pathway of steps that lead you through a magical landscape of trees and rocks. At the bottom of the climb is a stream and picturesque waterfalls, plus a pulpit-shaped rock formed in red sandstone. It’s a challenge climbing down and then back up again – four-legged companions will be fine – but there are ropes to steady your balance if you need them.
3. Climb Up Ben Nevis
The highest peak in the UK isn’t to be attempted at a whim, but you and man’s best friend could ramble in the foothills and marvel at this giant mountain from below. The area attracts more than 100,000 visitors a year who come to enjoy the glacial-valley views, mountain streams and challenging pathways. Known as the ‘mountain with its head in the clouds’ every outdoor lover should climb at least the lower levels of Ben Nevis when visiting Scotland.
4. Visit Culzean Castle
Opulent and sprawling, Culzean Castle is a sight not to miss if you’re in southern Scotland. Built in the 18th century on the edge of the Ayrshire cliffs, this magnificent home was designed as a display of wealth. An oval staircase, turrets, a collection of flintlock pistols and large kitchen can be seen inside. Outside there are 250 hectares of grounds, a swan pond, glasshouses, formal gardens and a cave-backed beach to explore. Doggies are welcome in all the outside areas, except the children’s playground, so you can all visit this stunning castle together.
5. Experience Life Inside Inveraray Jail
Inveraray Jail is one of the best-preserved prison and courthouses in the world and it is open to the public. Doggies are welcome to step back in time with you as you experience life behind bars in the 19th century. Learn about the living conditions and medical practices endured by prisoners in history. Costumed characters bring the history of the buildings to life and they encourage you to try the thumbscrews.
6. Hike The Cairngorms
The Cairngorms National Park is the largest park in the UK and is a dog walker’s paradise. With routes that take you over mountains, through woodland and across heathland, there are walking routes available in a choice of lengths and difficulty levels. The wildlife is diverse in this remote part of Scotland, so take a pair of binoculars with you and be on the look-out for Osprey, red squirrels, mountain hare, deer and eagles. There are organised walking tours here to book if you’d like to be guided by a professional.
7. Cruise On Loch Ness With Your Doggy
Pooches are welcome on most of the cruises that explore the waters of Loch Ness. Climb aboard a boat and hunt for Nessie as you are driven around the famous loch near Inverness. At peak times cruises leave every 15 minutes so it’s easy to fit this memorable excursion into your day.
Looking at Visiting the Area
There are amazing dog-friendly places in Scotland to visit and some of the best dog walks in Scotland you will ever see. Your four-legged friend will be wagging his tail with joy if you book a pet-friendly holiday in Scotland.
Log Cabins
Experience the real Scotland when you book dog friendly lodges in Scotland, From forest to coast, mountains and glens. You’ll love it!
Cottages
If you need a larger property, perhaps tucked away in one of the idyllic forests, then see this list of luxury dog friendly places to stay in Scotland that are available to rent. You can also find Scotland hot tub cottages for pets here.
Last Word
There you have it, 8 excellent choices for a great Scottish day out with the dog. If you are planning a trip and haven’t found anywhere to stay yet then check out our best short breaks in Scotland with everything from cottages to lodges and with the odd holiday park thrown in you’ll be sure to find some great accommodation.