Cardiff, a city brimming with dog friendly places. Where your pooch is not just welcome but adored. This vibrant city is a treasure trove of dog friendly delights, boasting an array of shops, restaurants, and bars where your furry friend is not just allowed, but celebrated!
At the centre of it all is the lush expanse of Bute Park, affectionately known as the green heart of Cardiff. Spanning a grand 130 acres, this park offers a picturesque landscape of meticulously tended gardens and serene woodland walks, with the majestic Cardiff Castle forming a stunning backdrop.
But the canine adventures in Cardiff extend far beyond the park boundaries. Imagine strolling through the historic courtyards of Cardiff Castle or cruising along the River Taff on a dog friendly boat tour. And when it comes to refuelling, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the city’s plethora of tail-wagging cafes and restaurants.
Our guide is your key to unlocking all the dog friendly wonders that Cardiff has to offer. Get ready to explore the best of dog friendly Cardiff with your beloved companion by your side!
Top Dog Walks In Cardiff
Cardiff is a city that adores its four-legged friends, offering a variety of scenic walks perfect for dogs and their owners. Let’s explore some of the best dog walks this vibrant city has to offer:
Taff Trail – This versatile path stretches from Cardiff Bay to Brecon, offering options for all fitness levels. Choose from a gentle 5.5-mile route or an 8-mile stretch that passes through beautiful parks like Bute Park and Llandaff Fields.
Cardiff Bay Barrage – Enjoy stunning bay views on this 3-mile flat path. You can start from the quieter Penarth end or go for the full loop around the Bay.
Roath Park – A tranquil haven near the city centre, featuring a beautiful lake and vibrant gardens. The flat, easy paths make it perfect for leisurely walks.
Bute Park – Just a stone’s throw from Cardiff Castle, it’s a green oasis in the heart of the city. The park offers a variety of routes, from a short walk around the Millennium Bridge to extensive explorations of its 130 acres.
Cefn Onn Park – Located in North Cardiff, this park offers peaceful woodland paths and a delightful stream, perfect for water-loving pups.
Garth Mountain – For those seeking a hike with panoramic views, head just north of the city. Various routes lead to its summit, including a popular 5-mile circular walk from Pentyrch.
Dog Friendly Places To Eat
Cardiff’s culinary scene isn’t just for humans – it’s got plenty to offer your four-legged friend too! Here, we’ve rounded up some pawsitively delightful spots to chow down with your furry companion.
AJ’s Coffee House – This place is all about the good stuff – top-notch coffee, tea, and mouthwatering homemade cakes and pastries.
The Pen and Wig – This gastro pub knows how to roll out the welcome mat for both you and your furry pal. Classic British pub grub with a twist awaits!
The Head of Steam – Craft beers, artisan spirits, and fantastic food – what more could you ask for? Your pup will love the atmosphere.
The Stable – With quality pizzas, pies, and cider galore, this laid-back spot offers a spacious setting for you and your furry sidekick.
Tiny Rebel – Craft beers, burgers, and a friendly vibe make this spot a winner for both you and your furry mate.
Giardini di Sorrento – Get ready to savour authentic Italian dishes inspired by the Sorrento peninsula. Bellissimo!
The Coconut Tree – Sri Lankan flavours in tapas style, with a welcoming atmosphere for your four-legged friend.
Pieminister – Award-winning pies that both you and your pup can enjoy. They even provide fresh water for your furry mate.
The Botanist Bar & Restaurant – A friendly co*cktail bar and restaurant serving up a diverse menu, including brunch and hearty roasts.
Bills – Located in a Grade II listed building, Bills offers European and British cuisine with options for all diets. They’re dog lovers too!
Mowgli’s Street Food – An Indian-style restaurant with a beautiful ambiance and water bowls for your pup.
Fat Hippo – Burgers, fries, and sides that’ll satisfy everyone. Just be sure to book ahead – it’s a popular spot!
After breakfast, perhaps you want to enjoy a spot of shopping after all Cardiff has a plethora of places to shop with the pooch. Our favourites include John Lewis, Seasalt, Fat Face, Vans, Urban Outfitters and Lush Cosmetics. Even some of the Retro Vintage shops will happily welcome your companions.
Our favourite place to explore in Cardiff with our canine companions, is Cardiff indoor market. Great place to find all kinds of trinkets and treasures. You’ll even find a couple of pet shops!
Dog Friendly Things To Do
Cardiff offers a wealth of activities that both you and your furry companion can enjoy together. From boat rides to open-air museums. Here are some of the best dog friendly things to do in and around Cardiff:
St fa*gans: This open-air museum in the outskirts of Cardiff offers a glimpse into Wales’ past with over 40 historic buildings. And the best part? It’s FREE!
Chance and Counters – Board games and a diverse menu – what a combo! You and your pup can enjoy a meal while having a blast.
Dyffryn Gardens and Arboretum: Just a short drive from Cardiff, this National Trust property offers plenty of walking trails for you and your dog to explore.
Cardiff Castle: Located in the heart of Cardiff, this historic castle offers opportunities to learn about Welsh history. You and your dog can explore the castle’s grounds outside.
World of Boats Cardiff Bay: A dog friendly museum with a unique collection of boats from around the world and through the ages.
Cardiff Boat: Set sail and take a trip from Cardiff Bay into Cardiff City Centre. A great way to explore Cardiff with your dog.
Escape Rooms Cardiff: Test your wits in real-life room escape games.
Dog Friendly Bars Cardiff
When it’s time to unwind and enjoy some refreshments, Cardiff has a variety of dog friendly bars where you and your furry friend can relax. Here are some of the top dog friendly bars in the city:
Mocka Lounge: Luxury lounge in the city centre, dog friendly inside and out, with a doggy menu and delicious co*cktails.
BrewDog: Leading craft beer spot, very dog friendly with water, treats, and a relaxed vibe.
Kongs: Retro arcade games, ping pong, and craft beer, always welcoming dogs with water bowls.
Daffodil: Dog friendly bar championing local Welsh suppliers, offering a warm atmosphere.
Libertine co*cktail Bar: Table service, board games, and dog friendly co*cktails.
Brew Monster Cardiff Tap House: Great craft beer bar in Castle Quarter, dog friendly.
Cambrian Tap: Part of Cardiff’s craft beer scene, always welcoming dogs with water and snacks.
Pitch Bar Eatery: Known for co*cktails and local grub, dogs are always welcome.
Dog Friendly Places To Stay
Finding the perfect accommodation that welcomes both you and your dog is essential for a memorable visit to Cardiff. Here are some dog friendly places to stay in the city:
The Angel Hotel: Welcomes furry friends of any size for £15 per pooch, per night.
Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel & Spa: Dogs of all sizes are welcome for £20 per pooch, per night.
Voco St David: Luxury stay, dogs are welcome for £30 per room, per night (one dog per room). Parking available for £24 per night.
The Gwaelod y Garth Inn: Offers a dog friendly room for £15 per dog, per night, with a special dog’s dinner on the menu.
Novotel Cardiff Centre: Welcomes up to three dogs for £20 per pet, per night, with dog friendly rooms equipped with a dog bed and bowls.
New House Country Hotel: Escape the city’s hustle and bustle. One dog is welcome for £25 per night, with dog friendly bedrooms and access to the elegant Blue Lounge.
Holiday Inn Express: Dogs are welcome for £15 per pet, per night, close to Cardiff Bay and the city centre. Free Wi-Fi, on-site parking, and breakfast included.
Ibis Cardiff Gate: Budget-friendly and dog friendly, it welcomes dogs of any size for £10 per pet, per night. Free parking and breakfast available.
Travelodge Cardiff: Dogs are welcome for £20 per dog, per stay.
Campanile Hotel Cardiff: Friendly to furry friends and your wallet. Two dogs of any size can stay for £5 per pet, per night, with free on-site parking.
Looking For More Dog Friendly Guides?
Looking for a guide somewhere else? How about Manchester or Liverpool? Alternatively, just across the pond, Bristol has plenty of dog friendly places and our friends at GuDog have shared some great walks for dog owners to enjoy.
So that wraps up our little guide. Are there any dog friendly places in Cardiff you’ve visited which we can add to our website? Leave a reply below or tell us on InstagramTwitter or Facebook.
