With plenty of open space to run and roam, West Wales is a dog’s paradise. Aside from being able to enjoy the great outdoors, many attractions in the area also welcome dogs, making for some fantastic days out with the whole family.
If you’re staying at one of our dog-friendly holiday cottages in Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion or Carmarthenshire, be sure to check out some of these things to do and see to make the most of your trip!
1. National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne
The National Botanic Garden of Wales spans over 500 acres, with cultivated gardens, parkland and glorious countryside to explore at every turn. The site permits dogs on special ‘Doggy Days’, which take place on Monday, Friday and every first weekend of the month.
Although not allowed in the Glasshouse or Tropical House, your dog will be free to enjoy the many joys of the gardens, so long as they are kept on a lead.
Image: The National Botanic Gardens, Wales by Martin Bodman / CC BY-SA 2.0
2. Pembrey Country Park, Llanelli
With 500 acres of parkland, nature trails, an award-winning beach and a range of exciting activities, Pembrey Country Park in Carmarthenshire has it all. Dogs are very welcome to join you in the park so long as they’re kept on a lead.
There are several cafes and kiosks around the park that are dog-friendly, so you can easily spend a whole day meandering through the woods and Cefn Sidan Beach.
Image: At the edge of the dunes on Cefn Sidan beach by Richard Law / CC BY-SA 2.0
3. Dinefwr Park, Llandeilo
The nature reserve here encompasses Dinefwr Castle, Newton House and Dinefwr Park, with over 800 acres of rolling countryside, meadows and parkland. There are plenty of walks around the estate, including up to the enchanting 12th-century castle ruin.
Dogs are welcome to explore the ground floor of the house and the grounds but are not permitted in the deer park.
Image: Newton House, Dinefwr Park by Philip Halling / CC BY-SA 2.0
4. Caldey Island, Off Tenby
Just off the coast of Tenby, you will find Caldey Island, an idyllic holy island that is still maintained by a community of Cistercian monks. When the island is open to visitors (Easter to October), you are free to take in the tranquil atmosphere and deep sense of history.
Dogs are allowed on Caldey, and will surely love a stroll around the grounds and the longer routes, but they must be kept on a lead at all times. There are several walking trails on the island, including through the woodland, along the west cliffs and around the lighthouse.
Image: Caldey Island: the abbey by Chris Downer / CC BY-SA 2.0
5. Gwili Steam Railway, Carmarthen
For something a little different, why don’t you and your pup travel back in time with the Gwili Steam Railway, offering vintage train experiences and a new way to enjoy the picturesque Welsh countryside?
The 90-minute journey takes you past wooded hillsides, farmland and rivers for a peaceful day out combining living history with verdant scenic views. Dogs are welcome on the train at an extra cost of £2.
Llwyfan Cerrig Station, Gwili Steam Railway by Richard Rogerson / CC BY-SA 2.0
6. Castell Henllys Iron Age Village, Crymych
With immersive roundhouses and Iron Age villagers, the Castell Henllys Iron Age Village transports you back to prehistory, giving you a real idea of what life would’ve been like in ancient times.
Educational and transportive, Castell Henllys is an incredibly important site for understanding Iron Age society in Wales, making for a memorable family day out. Dogs are welcome everywhere on the site, aside from inside the cafe.
Image: Iron Age village reconstruction at Castell Henllys by Jakednb / CC BY-SA 4.0
7. Pembroke Castle, Pembroke
As the famed birthplace of Henry VII, Pembroke Castle is an iconic heritage attraction in West Wales, with an exciting range of exhibits and castle features to explore.
Well-behaved dogs on short leads are allowed all over the site, aside from in the gift shop.
Many of Wales’ castle attractions are dog-friendly.
8. Wales Coast Path
The Wales Coast Path follows the country’s coastline in its entirety, meaning there are 870 miles of amazing coastal views and unspoilt natural beauty to dip into.
You can join the Coast Path in West Wales from various places, with countless dog-friendly walks that take you across rugged cliff tops, sandy dunes and scenic wonders. See our extensive West Wales walking guide to get inspired with some of the best routes.
Dog-Friendly Beaches in West Wales
And of course, no trip to anywhere in West Wales would be complete without a trip or two to the beach. Many of the beaches along the West Wales coastline are wonderfully dog-friendly, providing the perfect opportunity for exploring and playing.
To find your nearest dog-friendly beach, check out our map.
Dog-Friendly Holidays in West Wales
Still need somewhere to stay on your Welsh adventure? Check out our eclectic range of dog-friendly holiday cottages in West Wales, including properties in popular locations like Tenby, Broad Haven and St Davids.
These are perfectly situated to help you and your pup enjoy the beautiful countryside and surrounding attractions to the fullest!
Featured Properties
Discover a fantastic selection of West Wales holiday cottages, perfect for the whole family including four-legged friends!
