Paws, Play & Perfect Staycations

Discover two of our favourite dog-friendly escapes, where beautiful surroundings and warm hospitality await the whole family.

With overseas travel becoming increasingly expensive and many families reluctant to leave a much-loved pet behind, there has never been a better time to rediscover the beauty of a UK staycation. For dog owners especially, travelling closer to home means every member of the family can come along. Just over an hour from Plymouth, Cornwall remains one of Britain’s best-loved holiday destinations. From dramatic clifftops and sandy beaches to picturesque fishing villages, sheltered coves and ancient woodlands, there is always somewhere new to discover. Food lovers can enjoy freshly caught seafood, traditional Cornish pasties and cream teas, while history enthusiasts can explore castles, mining heritage and iconic landmarks including St Michael’s Mount and Tintagel Castle. With miles of coastline, countryside trails and the South West Coast Path, it is also perfect for walking, cycling and outdoor adventures.

For this issue, I have selected two personal favourite places to stay that combine beautiful surroundings, excellent hospitality and a genuinely warm welcome for guests and their four-legged companions.

An ideal choice that perfectly captures the spirit of a Cornish staycation is The Valley, an award-winning five-star collection of luxury self-catering cottages near Truro. Set within peaceful woodland, its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Cornwall. Whether you head to the dramatic north coast, the gentler south coast, bustling harbour towns or hidden beaches, many of the county’s highlights are within easy reach. The Valley feels more like a peaceful village retreat than a traditional holiday park, with spacious stone cottages, fully equipped kitchens and private outdoor spaces. There is plenty to enjoy without leaving the resort, including indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools, a fitness suite, tennis and squash courts, a games room, children’s play areas and the onsite restaurant, Hart of The Valley. The Valley does far more than simply welcome dogs. Canine guests can enjoy woodland walks, welcome packs and information on nearby dog-friendly beaches, cafés and walking routes. After a day exploring Cornwall, guests can dine at Hart of The Valley, where four-legged companions are welcome too. The resort has also received recognition in the Cornwall Tourism Awards’ Dog-Friendly Accommodation of the Year category for several consecutive years.

For those drawn to wild countryside, riverside walks and peaceful surroundings, Mill End Hotel is another destination I highly recommend.

Located beside the River Teign near Chagford, this charming country house hotel provides a relaxing base for exploring Dartmoor National Park. Dogs are welcome in selected bedrooms and communal areas, while riverside and moorland walks begin on the doorstep. The hotel’s two AA Rosette restaurant serves seasonal dishes showcasing the best of Devon produce, while nearby attractions include Castle Drogo, Becky Falls, Wistman’s Wood and the market town of Chagford.

Beautiful in Every Season

Cornwall and Dartmoor are destinations to enjoy throughout the year. Summer brings beach days, paddleboarding and alfresco dining, autumn offers colourful landscapes and quieter walking routes, winter delivers dramatic coastlines, cosy pubs and peaceful countryside, while spring welcomes wildflowers, lighter evenings and fresh coastal air. Whether you choose the luxury self-catering cottages at The Valley or the peaceful charm of Mill End Hotel, both offer memorable pet-friendly escapes with beautiful surroundings, outstanding hospitality and a genuine welcome for every member of the family – including those with four paws.