Dog-friendly Edinburgh

As the phrase goes, “every dog has its day” and with more people travelling with pets, an increasing number of the city’s hotels, bars and restaurants are allowing dogs to stay, so there’s no need for your furry friends to miss out. We’ve rounded up a selection – guaranteed to provide you and your 4-legged friend with a “pawesome” time in Edinburgh!

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Transport

Edinburgh offers a range of dog-friendly transport options for visitors and residents alike, ensuring you never need to leave your furry friends behind.

Lothian Buses welcomes well-behaved dogs on their services at the driver’s discretion, ensuring convenience for pet owners traveling within the city. Similarly, Edinburgh Trams allow dogs on board, provided they are kept on a lead or in an appropriate carrier, and without being on the seats. For those exploring the city’s sights, both Edinburgh Bus Tours and Bright Bus Tours are pet-friendly, with both companies encouraging travellers to bring their dogs along for the ride.

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Accommodation

B+B Edinburgh offers pet-friendly rooms, and have a ‘Doggy Breakfast menu’, so your furry friend can tag along with you. They are also provided with a bed and bowl to keep them happy, with recommendations from the team about the best places to go in Edinburgh with your pet. Similarly, the Best Western Kings Manor Hotel also welcomes pets and is just 20 minutes away from Edinburgh’s best attractions such as Edinburgh Castle and The Scottish National Gallery. If you prefer a slightly quieter location, Holiday Inn Express – Leith Waterfront is the perfect place to go. They are happy to have your pets and recommend mentioning your pets are coming when booking.

Centrally located on York Place, ideal for both the city’s attractions and transport links, Hotel Indigo is a 4-star boutique hotel allowing pets and providing them with food and water bowls. If you’re looking for your dog to stay without any additional cost, Prestonfield House and The Kimpton Charlotte Square are great options. Kimpton offers many hotel amenities and a concierge list of nearby pet-friendly restaurants, parks, groomers and pet boutiques. Another free of charge option is Virgin Hotels Edinburgh who provide many complimentary goodies, including a Virgin Hotels bandana!

The Balmoral combines stunning views and warm hospitality with world-class facilities. They welcome all furry guests, with the addition of a Dog Welcome Pack consisting of a bed, water bowl, welcoming treats, list of dog-friendly local establishments and list of local dog walkers.

Explore more pet-friendly accommodation in Edinburgh.

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Parks, green spaces and beaches

Edinburgh offers a delightful array of dog-friendly parks, green spaces and beaches that cater to both pets and their owners.

Princes Street Gardens, situated in the heart of the city, provides a picturesque setting during all seasons and stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, perfect for a leisurely walk and to take a few pictures. Or for another opportunity for your dog to stretch their legs, The Meadows is a popular spot to gather for picnics and games of fetch.

Holyrood Park, home to the iconic Arthur’s Seat, offers miles of trails and natural beauty for more adventurous outings with your pet. With hills, meadows and lochs, it’s perfect for your pet to explore without feeling confined. Similarly, Inverleith Park, located near the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, offers plenty of paths to follow that will take you on scenic routes and is well equipped with benches and shaded areas to rest whilst your dog explores.

For a scenic hike, Calton Hill provides panoramic views of the city and plenty grassy areas for your dog to explore. With monuments such as the National Monument, the Nelson Monument, and the Dugald Stewart Monument, this location offers culture as well as beautiful views.

The Water of Leith Walkway offers a tranquil riverside path that winds through the city, ideal for longer walks. Or for beach lovers, head to Portobello Beach and Cramond Beach, where dogs can enjoy the long stretch of sand and head to a nearby café for a treat.

Please clean up after your dog and be mindful of other people and dogs.

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Shops for dogs

There are many shops specifically for dogs in Edinburgh, so treat your pet to a new stylish accessory or delicious treat!

Harry’s Treats, on Portobello High Street offer a wide array of handmade, healthy dog treats containing no artificial colourings or preservatives, made with only high quality, human grade ingredients. Dofos Pet Centre is another favourite with dog owners, featuring an extensive selection of pet supplies, including food, toys, and accessories. They have everything from raw to dry dog foods, to recommended grooming salons.

Patch’s Pet Supplies offer a variety of products tailored to meet the needs of dogs of all sizes and breeds. Whether you’re looking for nutritious food options, fun toys, or grooming supplies, they have you covered. They also offer the same for cats, and even birds.

Just Dogs have it all, from their best-selling perfect-fit harness to foods, toys, grooming, accessories, healthcare and much more. Keep an eye on their Doggie Bloggie for helpful posts regarding your dog tips and tricks, and some funny dog pictures! While for those adventurous pups, The Dog Port on Portobello High Street has a self-service dog wash and plenty of outdoor gear to get your dog ready to explore the outside.

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Dog-friendly shops

St James Quarter welcome dogs, cats and even birds to visit them. Located around the Gallleria are some drinking spots so your pet can stay hydrated. Keep an eye out for stores that welcome pets, they should have a paw sticker on their window!

For book lovers, Blackwell’s and Typewronger Books are must-visit spots, both renowned for their extensive collection of books, they have a pet-friendly atmosphere meaning your dog can accompany you whilst you’re looking for your next read.

The Scottish Textiles Showcase is a treasure trove of blankets, knitwear, scarves and accessories all made locally by Scottish wool mills and skilled artisans. Browse their unique collection as your furry friend tags along. For more handmade treasures, Yellow Souls Studio are filled with many vintage pieces, and they even offer personal styling services. Here, dogs are as appreciated as their owners, so feel free to bring them along.

Harbour Lane Studio in South Queensferry feature a variety of home décor, beauty, books and more, as well as beautiful bespoke pieces and a kid’s section. Visit their shop and bring your dog along with you.

For quirky gifts and stationery, Paper Tiger presents a diverse selection of the best cards, sweets, gifts, stationary and more. They also provide a welcoming environment that happily accommodates dogs.

Explore more of Edinburgh’s pet-friendly shops.

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Attractions and things to do

Journey to St Giles’ Cathedral and explore 900 years of history and architecture independently, on a group visit or guided tour. Dogs are welcome and you can ask a member of staff or volunteer for some water if needed.

Edinburgh’s oldest visitor attraction, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions has been delighting visitors since 1853 with interactive optical illusions, tricks and fun things to do including the vortex tunnel, mirror maze and shrinking room. And ensuring none of the family miss out on the fun, dogs are welcome around the whole attraction, with water provided for thirsty pups.

Formerly home to the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies of the University of Edinburgh, Summerhall is now a busy arts venue with a year-round diverse programme of visual and performing arts. All dogs, including guide dogs and hearing dogs, are always welcome at Summerhall. Dogs must always be kept on a lead.

Explore The Secret Garden Distillery’s world-famous gin distillery with a tour of their secret garden. All dogs are invited on the unique experience, enjoy a drink with your furry friend by your side. Or if you’re looking for an adventure, WanderWomen Scotland organizes dog-friendly hikes and tours, ensuring that your four-legged friend can join in on the exploration of Scotland’s stunning landscapes. For a bit of adventure on the water, the Maid of the Forth offers daytime trips with dogs welcome on board. Please note, only support dogs are allowed on their evening cruises.

The Scottish Seabird Centre, located on the picturesque coast of North Berwick, is a marine conservation and education charity with a café, giftshop, and wildlife boat trips. They welcome well-behaved dogs on leads in all indoor and outdoor public areas, and assistance dogs are welcome in all areas. And for art lovers, plan a visit to Edinburgh Printmakers and print studio and bring your furry friend along with you for a creative day out to their workshops, two galleries, or shop selling original prints and handmade products.

Make the short journey to East Lothian for a day of family fun at the National Museum of Flight. Dogs are welcome on the venue’s outdoor site as long as they are kept on a lead.

Find more attractions in Edinburgh that are pet-friendly.

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Cafes and restaurants

Sip & Bark is designed specifically for dog lovers and their dogs to enjoy a delicious brunch together, with their own doggy menu on offer featuring treats from doggy donuts to beer and wine. Similarly, at The Stables Kitchen at Hopetoun House, you can indulge in a delightful meal, and so can your dog, with their Posh Pooch Menu of doggy treats and carrot gnashers.

Mimi’s Bakehouse, with locations in Comely Bank, the City Art Centre, Corstorphine, Lauriston Castle and Leith allow all dogs at their outdoor tables and small, well-behaved dogs indoors. Rabble is another excellent choice, known for its relaxed vibe and dog-friendly policy, they are happy to allow dogs into all areas of the bar and food can be served to tables with dogs, with treats and water included.

Located in the vibrant Leith neighbourhood, The Roseleaf is a quirky and dog-friendly café-bar offering a menu including various cocktails, delicious brunch options and traditional pub fayre.

The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant is situated at the gardens entrance of the National Galleries of Scotland: National on the Mound with iconic views to Princes Street Gardens. Enjoy a meal with the company of your furry friend on their outdoor terrace. Another option is Hendersons, renowned for its vegetarian and vegan dishes, they warmly welcome dogs to their restaurant. Just make sure you include this detail when you are booking.

Luckenbooths on the historic Royal Mile, offer everything from mouth-watering breakfasts and brunches to delicious dinners. Enjoy the very best in Scottish produce and service in their restaurant and lounge or relax on the suntrap terrace with your canine companion, overlooking the city’s most famous landmarks. Or stop by Scran and Scallie, a warm and welcoming gastropub in Stockbridge serving delicious Scottish food from their menu of modern dishes and classics.

Patina, a bakery and restaurant, provides a delightful setting where dogs are welcome, allowing you to enjoy freshly baked goods and meals in a relaxed atmosphere. McLarens on the Corner is another superb option, offering a friendly environment where you can enjoy a meal or a drink with your four-legged companion by your side.

Discover more places to eat and drink in Edinburgh that are dog-friendly.

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Bars and pubs

The Stockbridge Tap, renowned for its warm atmosphere, is a dog-friendly bar selling local and independent beers on cask as well as a selection of Scottish spirits. Similarly, Brewhemia, located in the heart of the city, also welcome dogs to their venues and offer cocktails, beers, and entertainment.

At Teuchters Landing, a cosy waterside pub, dogs are welcome throughout, so invite your four-legged friends to enjoy their beer garden. For a rooftop view, the Cold Town House have a lively atmosphere and are dog-friendly in their main restaurant and drinks area.

The Devil’s Advocate permits dogs on their terrace and within the bar area, though the restaurant remains off-limits to pets. Another option is the Voodoo Rooms, with its eclectic menu and live cabaret rooms, they open their doors to dogs on weekdays.

Moonwake Beer Co‘s taproom and beer garden are open to dogs, so grab a drink and a bite to eat with your four-legged friend by your side. For somewhere stylish and with an extensive drink menu, Copper Blossom welcome dogs. Or for a traditional pub ambience, both the Tolbooth Tavern and The Queens Arms are great places to visit, and happy invite dogs in as well.

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