Ireland is one of the best places to explore with your dog, from sweeping beaches where paws can race the tide to quiet mountain trails scented with pine and heather. Add to that a welcoming culture, plenty of dog-friendly pubs and cafés, and a growing number of holiday cottages and hotels that go the extra mile for four-legged guests, and you’ve got the makings of a truly memorable escape. We’ve handpicked some of the most inviting dog-friendly places to stay in Ireland, where thoughtful touches like treats, blankets and secure gardens come as standard, and adventures come in the form of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Waterford Greenway and Dublin’s long city beaches.
The Artists’ Cottage & Studio, Bantry, Co. Cork
This characterful cottage and studio sit on the Sheep’s Head peninsula, right on the Wild Atlantic Way. Dogs are warmly welcomed with towels, blankets, biscuits and bowls, and up to three can join you. The secure garden gives them space to roam, and you’ll find walking routes and tips waiting when you book.
Hike the Sheep’s Head Way, considered Ireland’s finest walking trail, where you may spot choughs or peregrines wheeling above the cliffs. Sandy Barleycove Beach is within reach for off-lead fun, while nearby Kilcrohane has dog-friendly pubs like Eileen’s Bar. After windswept walks, light the fire, soak in the clawfoot bath and let your pups curl up at your feet while the sun sets over the sea.
Damson Gate Lodge at Mount Congreve Gardens, Co. Waterford
Set within the Mount Congreve Estate, this 18th-century gate lodge is steeped in history and happily dog-friendly. Two pups (charged £22 each per stay) are welcome and pampered with bowls, a bed and toys, while treats can be bought at the estate’s Stables Café. Beyond your private patch of garden, explore the estate’s 70 acres of woodlands and formal gardens, where dogs on leads can wander.
The Waterford Greenway, a 46km walking and cycling trail, starts on your doorstep and offers miles of sniff filled adventure. Coastal runs await at the Copper Coast Geopark’s beaches, or head into nearby Waterford for harbour strolls and dog-friendly cafés. Back at the lodge, curl up in velvet armchairs by the stove with your tired pup snoozing at your feet.
Aberdeen Lodge, Sandymount, Co. Dublin
In leafy Sandymount, just minutes from Dublin city centre, Aberdeen Lodge combines period charm with dog-friendly warmth. Up to two dogs (charged £20 per night each) are welcome and greeted with a bowl and homemade treats from the friendly resident retrievers. While you’ll need to bring their bed, they’ll love the big garden and the long sandy stretch of Sandymount Strand, just 200 yards away and perfect for morning walks with views of Howth Head.
Explore Dublin’s dog-friendly pubs and parks, from Merrion Square to St Stephen’s Green, or take coastal strolls towards Malahide. After a day in the bustle, retreat to the calm of this Victorian villa, where hosts Pat and Ann make both human and canine guests feel utterly at home.
Sandbrook House, Ballon, Co. Carlow
Dogs are truly part of the family at Sandbrook House, where up to two are welcome (£10–20 each). Choose from a self contained loft with a wood-burner and balcony or an apartment in the grand 18th-century house, both surrounded by 25 acres of gardens and meadows. Pups can sniff their way along country lanes or stretch their legs in the nearby Blackstairs and Wicklow mountains.
For gentle strolls, try Rathwood Forest or the tranquil paths at Altamont House and Gardens, where dogs on leads are allowed. The Chocolate Garden of Ireland even offers a dog-friendly outdoor café space, making it a sweet stop for both of you. Back at Sandbrook, sink into antique-filled bedrooms and light the fire while your four-legged companion can rest happily after a day of roaming.
Sea Meadow, near Westport, Co. Mayo
Set on the wild and wonderful west coast, Sea Meadow is a haven for both humans and hounds. Designed by architects Paul Keogh and Rachael Chidlow, its minimalist interiors and panoramic windows frame sweeping views of Clew Bay, Achill Island and the iconic Croagh Patrick, making it an inspiring backdrop for long dog walks.
A short drive brings you to a Blue Flag beach, perfect for off-lead runs and sea paddles, while the golden sands of Silver Strand and the surf at Killadoon are close enough for day trips. After exploring the coastal trails, head to Staunton’s pub, a traditional, dog-friendly spot serving local ales, or stop by Westport, where cafés, craft shops and live music await (Matt Molloy’s Pub is a local legend).
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Beth Tingle
Beth is our Marketing & Content Coordinator, who uses her experience in all things content to get to the heart of the stories and people behind our places and paint an authentic picture of what makes them truly special. She then helps the SEO team to ensure that content reaches as many people as possible. Raised in the small seaside town of Clevedon, she then studied English at Falmouth University and is happiest when swimming in the sea. A huge foodie, she enjoys travel that involves finding the best local markets and cooking up the produce in a self-catered stay.