Since lockdown triggered a huge spike in dog parents, London is no longer just a great city for humans, but it has adapted to the dominating dog population too. As a major food enthusiast and a dog owner reluctant to leave my pup at home, it is useful to know a selection of pet-friendly hotspots in London. Here are four of the Sister Team’s top London destinations you can enjoy together this summer without needing to worry about leaving your furry-friend behind.
1. Islington Square
Islington Square welcomes dogs with open arms whether they are joining you for lunch or a shopping trip. The wide, open space makes it the ideal oasis for you and your doggo to walk around, meet up with other dogs and (of course) do some shopping.
Dog-friendly highlights:
- Restaurants: Megan’s (Dog beds, treats and water bowls), al fresco dining with your pup at Bewlie Hill, OMNOM’s orangery restaurant loves for you to bring along your canine companion.
- Food Markets every Saturday with tables and chair for you and your pup to enjoy a break and a bite to eat.
- Enjoy outdoor seating on the boulevard with your furry friend.
2. Marylebone Village
Marylebone Village is the sweet escape from the hustle and bustle of London’s Bond Street which can be overwhelming for four-legged companions. It is the perfect place with charming streets and an abundance of pet-friendly shopping and experiences.
Dog-friendly highlights:
- Dog-friendly restaurants: The Cavendish and 28-50 serving their own dog menus and Granger & Co and 108 Brasserie for alfresco dining.
- Head to local Paddington Street Gardens on nearby Regents Park for a dog walk
- Host annual events with dog focused activities, such as the Marylebone Summer Festival which has a dedicated dog zone with a range of canine activities and competitions with prizes to win.
See all Marylebone Village has to offer here.
3. Battersea Power Station
Battersea Power Station is close to being more dog-friendly than human-friendly. With Battersea Park next door, it is the perfect destination to walk your dog, followed by retail therapy inside the Power Station. It is a great urban spot to enjoy whatever the weather, along with an eclectic selection of restaurants and cafes with indoor and outdoor seating for you and your pup.
Dog-friendly highlights:
- Park & riverside walks
- Dog-friendly restaurants & shops | Tapas Brindisa, Wright Brothers, Fiume and Dishoom & Adidas, Aesop, Calvin Klein and Uniqlo
- Foodie markets outside the Power Station for you and your pooch to walk around
See all dog-friendly shops and restaurants here.
4. Hampstead Heath
With almost 800 acres of land, Hampstead Heath is absolutely a must-do if your pup loves to run wild and free off the lead. The Heath is great for long weekend walks with lots of coffee shops and pubs nearby, a well-deserved treat for you both.
Dog-friendly highlights:
- Hampstead Heath Dog Pond
- Long, scenic dog walks on the Heath
- Surrounded by dog friendly cafes and pubs: WatchHouse Cafe, The Garden Gate Pub and many more
How to get around London with a dog?
London has an entirely dog-friendly public transport system, including trains, tubes and buses, which makes it easy to get around as you would without your furry friend. However, it is advised to carry your dog up and down the escalators to avoid any harm. If you have a large dog or are unable to, many tube and train stations are step free with lifts in place.
Alternatively, if you are looking to avoid public transport, Uber-Pet is a very simple mode of transport and takes away the stress.
It goes without saying dog etiquette is crucial in London. Manners like clearing up after your dog and keeping them on the lead and under control in busy places are both fundamental to both a dog and a human friendly city.
