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London is a genuinely welcoming city for dogs, from vast heaths where they can run off the lead to historic pubs that keep a water bowl behind the bar. Whether you are visiting with a dog or simply want to build a day around green space and dog-friendly stops, this guide covers where to walk, eat, drink and stay, and how to get around with a dog in tow.
The best parks and green space
London's parks are its great gift to dogs. Hampstead Heath is the finest of all, a huge expanse of meadow and woodland where dogs roam freely and swim in the ponds. The royal parks welcome dogs too, with Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and Regent's Park all offering long walks, while the commons at Clapham and Wandsworth are lively local favourites. In Richmond Park, dogs are welcome but should be kept under close control near the free-roaming deer.
Dog-friendly pubs
Many of London's traditional pubs happily welcome dogs into the bar and garden, and some keep treats and water at the ready. Historic inns on the edge of green space, such as those around Hampstead Heath, are especially good for combining a long walk with a well-earned drink. Our guide to the best pubs in London is a good place to start planning a route.
Cafes, restaurants and hotels
A growing number of cafes welcome dogs, and it is not unusual to be offered a bowl of water or even a so-called puppuccino. Smarter dining rooms are less likely to admit dogs, so it is worth checking ahead. For an overnight stay, several of London's hotels are notably dog-friendly, with a handful of luxury addresses going as far as dog beds, menus and treats on arrival.
Getting around with a dog
Getting around is straightforward. Dogs travel free on the Underground, buses, the DLR and the Overground, provided they are on a lead or carried and do not cause a nuisance. The main rule to remember is that dogs must be carried on escalators, or you can use a lift where available. Taxis and private hire vehicles are at the driver's discretion, though black cabs are generally accommodating.
Good to know
Are dogs allowed on the London Underground?
Yes. Dogs travel free on the Tube and other Transport for London services when kept on a lead or carried. The one firm requirement is that they must be carried on escalators, so plan to use a lift with a larger dog where one is available.
Where can dogs run off the lead in London?
Hampstead Heath is the standout for off-lead freedom, along with many of the commons and the more open stretches of the royal parks. Rules vary by park and by area within a park, particularly around wildlife, playgrounds and deer, so look out for local signage.
Are London attractions dog-friendly?
Outdoor spaces, markets and many pubs and cafes welcome dogs, but most indoor attractions and museums admit only assistance dogs. If you are visiting indoor sights, it is worth planning around dog-friendly outdoor stops or arranging care for part of the day.
Where to go next
Plan the walking-and-drinking side of your day with the best pubs in London, or find more open-air ideas in our things to do in London guides.
