A good portion of the Peak District falls in Derbyshire and Staffordshire, an area that is a renowned destination for dog lovers who enjoy the great outdoors. If you and your dog are up for clocking up the paw miles up peaks and down valleys you will want to know where you can be sure of the best dog-friendly pubs in Peak District.
The Best Pubs in Peak District where Dogs are Welcome
Peak is from the Old English “peac”, meaning hill and hills there are aplenty. This national park attracts thousands of walkers, hikers and mountain bikers every year. It is a region of extremes, with rugged hiking trails in the Dark Peak and more pastures and rolling meadows in the White Peak. With its two-legged visitors come those of the four-legged variety too. Happily, there is a good range of Peak District pubs that allow dogs.
Adventurous breeds like Irish Setters, Airdale and Border terriers will all thrive in this environment. That does not mean to say that this area is exclusive for the hardier types and this, of course, applies to humans too. If you and your furry companion are partial to a more challenging terrain, then the Dark Peak is right up your street. For the more laid back set where your fur baby is partial to sniffing her surroundings and you are up for regular stops to drink in the scenery, then go for the White Peak.
Pet friendly pubs are along each route, the highest in a hamlet 1,300ft above sea level, so if you stick to the Ordnance Survey routes you will find welcome refreshments and pub grub. These pubs that take dogs will all have something special waiting for your furry friend too. Be sure to view the holiday cottages if planning a dog-friendly self-catering break in the Peak District.
Our Top 7 Choices
Find below 7 of the best pet friendly pubs in Peak District
1. Barrel Inn, Bretton
Although this 16th century diminutive inn simply cannot accommodate our canine companions indoors, they are welcome to access all areas on the front terrace where they can get bowls of fresh water. The inn 1,300ft above sea level, is the highest in the Peak District and you are likely to be needing it to revitalise Rover and perk yourself up with a perfect pint after a strenuous climb. The Barrel offers quick bites such as sandwiches and jacket potatoes as well as daily pub grub chalkboard specials. It has four real ales from Marston’s Pedigree, Hardy and Hanson and William Clarke breweries.
2. Staffordshire Knot, Sheen
This 16th century stone-built pub in a village near Buxton is an establishment in demand not only because of its gourmet pub grub and “dogs are welcome” policy but also for its stunning views of the Manifold Way. Log fires in traditional stone fireplaces will warm the paws in winter and sunny spots with shady umbrellas are on the terrace for mild, wet-free days. The kitchen team is led by the landlady herself and you can expect some great home comfort dishes such as chicken casserole with bacon and brie. The National Trust’s Manifold Valley 10-mile dog friendly walk is a good option if you are in the area.
3. Bridge Inn, Calver
This is one of the pubs that allows dogs in the upper Derwent River area. Its tapas-style pub grub is great for dog walkers who don’t want a heavy meal to impede their day of riverside trekking. Dogs are welcome throughout the inn and although the waterside garden offers plenty of space you do have the option of sitting in the bar and restaurant with Fido at your feet. Look out for the canine-in-residence, a cockapoo who goes by the name of Flossy and who is only too happy to show her new best friends where the treat pot can be found.
4. Five Lamps, Derby
If you are popping into the city for provisions, then you have to make a point of visiting this gem of a dog-friendly pub. While your furry friend is fussed over and fed a few tasty treats you can concentrate on this CAMRA establishment’s fine range of ales. It is fiercely loyal to local breweries with ales like Chatsworth Gold from Peak Ales and Titanic Brewery’s Plum Porter. It even goes as far as having its own ale, a good session at 4.3 ABV. While you are in this historic city visit the Derby Cathedral in Irongate.
5. Bull Inn, Monyash
This proper village 17th century pub has a dog of its own who has a prime spot in front of the roaring open fire but who is not averse to a bit of company now and again. So, it is no surprise that dogs are welcome in the bars and garden of this inn near historic Bakewell. The landlord says that many romances have developed over the years as like-minded dog lovers strike up conversations about their respective breeds of hounds. Its food might put it in the gastro pub league, but it remains true to its essence with farmers and dry stone wallers rubbing shoulders with White Peak ramblers and their Rovers.
6. Royal Oak, Hurdlow
Situated in the south side of the Peak District National Park, its open fires and nooks and crannies are heaven sent to weary walkers and their wagging-tailed companions. The Oak is ideal for early risers and is strong coffee and full breakfasts on offer before you and your furry friend head out on your day’s hike. Afterwards, you can be sure to return to a refreshing pint of real ale from local breweries such as Buxton, Thornbridge and Peak Ales. Its pub grub packs a provenance punch with produce from places like Critchlow’s Farm Shop in Bakewell and John Palin in Matlock.
7. Old Dog, Thorpe
This rustic pub with its stone exterior has a spacious car park for walkers at the start of the Tissington Trail and visitors to the Dovedale Nature Reserve. When you return back to base its first-come-first served for you and Fido here at the Old Dog. There is space for groups of walkers inside and there are all day log fires and candles when the nights draw in early. There are light bites such as courgette chips and a selection of real ales. The Tissington Trail starting point is a five minute walk from the pub and the Dovedale Stepping Stones are at the foot of Thorpe Cloud.
Last Word
The Peak District is dotted with villages of the vernacular, some dating back to the Salt Route of the 1400s. This is a selection of Peak District dog pubs that is going to make planning your trip away that much easier where you and your canine companion can enjoy Peak District hospitality at its best. There also a number of the best dog walks in the Peak District that serves as fantastic days out.
Our Peak District dog friendly pubs will be sure to enhance your stay and adventures in this perfect part of England. If your struggling for activities, see our pet friendly days out in the Peak District for lots of ideas and if you need accommodation, view all our Peak District dog friendly hot tub cottage breaks.