The Best Places In London To Go With Your Dog

What’s a day out when you’ve left your best friend at home? Tarnished by a lingering guilt. Spoiled by a suspicion that the pet-sitter forgot a vital tip. London is the city that has it all: an abundance of tourist clichés, high culture, low culture, red buses, black cabs, grey smog, long queues and if all else fails – the pub. It’s hardly surprising that the city can rustle up a dog-friendly day out. You simply need the down-low on where to go. This article lists six of the hottest spots to visit with Fido in tow.

Dogamahny

Inviting good sports only to work on their downward dog poses in the company of real experts, enigmatic yogi Mahny Djahanguiri runs classes from her studio in Kentish Town. Doga is, according to Dogamahny’s website, a human yoga practice which helps support the natural bond you have with your dog. Similar to young children, your fur-baby copies your breathing habit: a dog’s parasympathetic nervous system usually kicks in 20 minutes into a session, meaning that they’ll receive the same relaxing benefits from the practice as you do! Attendees are encouraged to bring a sense of humour; no yoga experience is required.

St James’s Park

Set Rover off the leash and make the most of the great outdoors. St James’s Park is widely lauded as one of London’s most beautiful green spaces. Located in the City of Westminster, St James’s epitomises the refined sprawl of London’s Royal Parks, featuring lakeside pathways, fountains and a fine view of Buckingham Palace. Pay attention to restricted areas and make sure your pooch doesn’t chase the pelicans to ensure your day doesn’t take a turn for the ruff.

The Pet Spa

It’s a well-known fact that the wildest absurdities in the eyes of non-owners inspire the most frenzied spending sprees in pup parents. The Pet Spa does not come cheap, but hey, haven’t you already committed to a lifetime of dog food, vet bills and premature footwear replacements? The City & Guilds-qualified groomers promise to give your cherished canine their undivided expert attention for the duration of any service. The menu includes (but is by no means limited to) a ‘Blueberry and Vanilla Facial’ and a ‘Fresh Breath Treatment’.

dog-haircut

Gaucho Doggy Sunday Brunch

Gaucho Hampstead brings fine Argentinian dining to a leafy neighbourhood location. On the first Sunday of every month, they throw open the doors to pets as well. The three-course prix fixe menu for owners includes a cocktail or glass of champagne and all treats for dogs are complimentary. Your pooch can expect a downsized continuation of the Argentinian style in the pet nutritionist-approved concoctions; consider the water bowl bottomless, and just to go the extra mile, Gaucho will throw in a goody bag to take home as well.

Anthropologie

Contrary to the implication of the store’s anthropocentric moniker, canine visitors are treated with high regard in this chic American import. Anthropologie provides water bowls and dog treats to pacify impatient mutts as owners peruse rails of the latest fashions. The store boasts three central London locations, all of which are compliant with a global store policy of pet-friendly practice. Amongst their offering of clothing, accessories, gifts and home décor, it seems barking mad that products aren’t pitched at pets, but if you’ve already treated your loved one at The Pet Spa, perhaps that’s a blessing… 

Duck & Rice

This swish dim sum spot does away with the tired myth that dogs are welcome in Asian restaurants only as ingredients. Alan Yau’s establishment is a polished pub conversion with magnetic appeal to the well-heeled Soho brunch crowd. Setting it apart from other Chinese competitors, dogs are welcome in the bar area and both water and treats are provided free of charge. Online reviews praise staff for generous fussing. Add an impeccable array of oriental bites, and a few pints of unpasteurised Pilsner from an imposing cluster of copper tanks and you might be tempted to stay all day.

dog at the duck and rice

Tips for your trip:

Pet parents needn’t patrol the streets endlessly in search of parking – YourParkingSpace lists affordable parking spaces to book online in advance, because your dog hates circling the block in search of a convenient spot just as much as you.

Download the Refill app or check www.tapwater.org to locate free tap water points across London. When the sun shines, a thirsty pet can drain your wallet fast if you constantly purchase plastic bottles.

Don’t try to run before you’ve even started walkies. If you’re reading this wistfully thinking about adopting your own pooch, why not borrow one with BorrowMyDoggy? Make sure to get permission from the owner before you take your canine companion on any adventures.

Have you ever taken your dog to London? Please share your favourite dog-friendly places in the comments below.

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