The midlands cover plenty of ground – and as fellow dog lovers, we understand your plight when on the search for top drinking spots. That’s why we’ve put together our list of the seven best dog friendly pubs in the midlands as a starting point for all kinds of adventures you might have planned. Across outer Birmingham, Shropshire and Staffs, we’ve been to many a pub where dogs are welcome – and the following picks guarantee warm atmospheres, top pub grub and a spot for you and your pup in the snug.
The Best Pubs in The Midlands where Dogs are Welcome
A pub needs a few things in order to be considered great. From the atmosphere to the style – and everything on the menu – we all have different tastes! However, you’ll likely agree that even the best-looking pubs can be a bit of a letdown if, on arrival, you get turned away because of your dogs.
Luckily, there’s more than a handful to pick from. The best midlands pubs where dogs are allowed not only give you and your pup refuge from trailing wider Brum or Alton Towers, but even serve up dog biscuits, fresh water and more besides. It’s a pain having to leave a pub because of your pet – and frankly, you should never have to leave them outside.
A great dog friendly pub in the midlands is likely to have plenty of character – you know the sort – and while you might find some spots won’t allow furry friends into restaurant zones, the following picks, at least, let you take Fido into the bar for a snooze in between rugged walks. Take time out of exploring the dog friendly days out in the midlands and make sure to settle down a while at one or more of our favourites below.
Our Top 7 Choices
The Royal Oak
The first dog-friendly pub on this list is The Royal Oak in Evesham. In 2018, this pub was recognised for its efforts in making the pub as dog friendly as possible and was even named a winner in the DogBuddy dog-friendly pub awards!
That’s partly thanks to the great atmosphere, but also thanks to its dog beer. Naturally, the local brew is non-alcoholic, but it at least means that your four legged friend can take a sup or two alongside you. The Royal Oak also makes for a great traditional pub with a fantastic menu of real ales.
Codsall Station Pub
The Codsall Station Pub in Wolverhampton is a picturesque spot, ideal for drinks out with the family. As the name suggests, it’s outside Codsall Station itself, making it a useful stopping off point if you’re heading on the train back home, or exploring dog walks in the midlands elsewhere.
As a dog-friendly pub, the team at the Codsall Station really go above and beyond. You’re always likely to have access to a fresh, cold bowl of water for your pup on arrival – and if you ask nicely, there might even be some treats behind the bar. It’s absolutely one of our personal favourite dog pubs in the area.
George and Dragon
Based out in Lichfield, this quaint little pub is based near the town cathedral and is perfect for a cup of something nice and warm – or a glass of something stronger, especially after having walked around the pretty centre with your pooch, working up a thirst.
The traditional interiors and open fire inside the pub will likely appeal to any dog lovers coming off the back of long strolls, especially during the colder months. This is a bit of a hotspot amongst locals so make sure to get your table here while you can!
The Black Swan
Based down in Jackfield, this beautiful pub is the perfect place to take a rest with your dog in a gorgeous beer garden overlooking the River Severn. The Black Swan is certainly well-known for its al fresco drinking setup, but there are just as many perks to bringing your pup inside, too.
In the colder months, you and your four-legged friend can sit by the log burner to warm up after touring the local scenery. It’s one of our favourite pubs that take dogs for ambience alone, and we love the fact it’s so close to the river.
The Fleece Inn
The Fleece, based in Evesham, is absolutely the place to head to if you like being out in the greenery – it’s truly magnificent to behold. The pub’s exterior is surrounded by beautiful flowers, and in the spring and summer months, you can admire the apple trees in the orchard behind the pub itself.
Best of all, your dog is welcome here and will love the beautiful outdoor area! If you’re booking cottages in the midlands, why not make the Fleece your temporary local?
The Angel Inn
This traditional, cosy pub has a great selection of beers and delicious food on offer. It’s a local favourite down in Lichfield, and its dog-friendly pub policy is a key reason.
In fact, your dog could have the chance to make a new friend there, as the pub has its own dog! There are dog bowls at the ready with taps outside specifically for your four legged friends, as well as some tasty dog biscuits for those well-behaved pups.
The Pretty Bricks
Based in Walsall, this classic English pub is a wonderful hub for ale, ambience and – of course – dog friendliness. Pretty Bricks is very popular with Walsall locals for its focus on ales, but dog walkers getting to know the surroundings will certainly be pleased of a cosy getaway.
Pet friendly pubs that look and feel like the Pretty Bricks aren’t always ten a penny, so definitely check out the menus here the next time you’re touring the midlands. Dogs are welcome all year round, meaning there’s no need to tie them up outside.
Last Word
Midlands pubs that allow dogs are growing ever more popular, and are increasing in number, too. However, we’ve all been there – as dog lovers – having to find another drinking hole thanks to restrictive policies. Before you spend too much time searching around for pubs that take dogs, try our favourite picks above as a priority – you’re sure of a great welcome.
Maybe you run your own pub – want to get in on our list of midlands dog friendly pubs? Get in touch and let’s see if we can help.