Looking for the perfect countryside escape where your four-legged friend is just as welcome as you are? Nestled on the edge of the Cotswolds, the charming town of Malmesbury is home to ancient abbeys, riverside strolls, and endless open space, ideal for dogs and their humans alike.
Pettifers Freehouse Hotel, located just minutes from the town, is a dog-friendly hotel offering a warm welcome to guests on two legs and four. With scenic trails, cosy pubs, and peaceful rural charm all around, it’s the ideal base for a pet-friendly walking break in Wiltshire.
Discover Malmesbury with Your Four-Legged Friend
Malmesbury is England’s oldest borough, best known for its 12th-century abbey and honey-stone architecture. But beyond its historic streets lies a network of footpaths and trails that weave through meadows, streams, and neighbouring Cotswold villages, many of which are dog-friendly.
At Pettifers Freehouse Hotel, your dog is not just allowed, they’re encouraged. With dog-friendly rooms, treats on arrival, a spacious garden, and friendly staff who know all the best local routes, you can enjoy a break that’s every bit as relaxing for your pet as it is for you.
Circular Walks & Countryside Trails
Malmesbury River Walk & Abbey Gardens
Start with a gentle riverside loop around Malmesbury’s historic centre. The River Avon trail follows the base of the abbey walls and passes through Abbey House Garden through the Coneygeare Mead (dogs on leads welcome in surrounding areas) before working its way 360 ‘ the ancient town. Perfect for a short morning walk or leg-stretch lunch with lunch at the Olde Bell or Rose & Crown en route.
Sherston Circular Walk
A scenic 5-mile loop through meadows, streams, and ancient hedgerows, the Sherston walk offers open space and off-lead opportunities for well-behaved dogs. Start in the village of Sherston (a 10-minute drive from Pettifers), where free parking and a dog-welcoming pub await at the end.
Cotswold Water Park Trails
Just 10 minutes from Pettifers, the Cotswold Lakes (previously Water Park) offers miles & miles of well-maintained trails along lakes and river Thames – there are many circular walks from the easy to intrepid. Dogs are welcome on & off leads, and it’s an ideal spot for a more active day out – there’s even a Dog-beach and pubs a plenty.
Easton Grey to Foxley Loop
A lesser-known gem, this countryside route offers peaceful walking across fields and bridleways. It’s a great circular trail with little road traffic and wide open views. Start from the village of Easton Grey (just a mile from the hotel).
Cosy Pubs & Dog-Friendly Stops Along the Way
One of the joys of a Cotswolds walk is ending up in a friendly country pub, and thankfully, several of the best in the area are more than happy to host you and your dog.
The Potting Shed, Crudwell
Just a few minutes’ walk from Pettifers, this award-winning gastropub is a favourite for its seasonal menus and rustic interiors. Dogs are welcome in the bar area and garden, where water bowls and dog biscuits await.
The Old Bell, Malmesbury
Reputed to be England’s oldest hotel, The Old Bell has a stylish, historic setting with a relaxed attitude toward canine guests. Dogs are welcome in the lounge and fabulous outdoor Lounge & garden spaces.
The Thames Head Inn, near Cirencester
Sits as the great River rises and is a great place to start a long or short walk – serves excellent value, fresh home-cooked food every day.
Why Stay at Pettifers for a Dog-Friendly Break?
Pettifers Freehouse Hotel is perfectly located for dog walkers, with miles of footpaths starting right from the village. The hotel offers:
- Dog-friendly ground-floor & 1st floor rooms with easy outdoor access, including Family rooms
- An enclosed lawned & terraced garden for quick walkies or pre-dinner play
- Complimentary treats, bowls, 2 wash-down areas, towels for muddy paws and even a sausage at breakfast (pets can join you throughout your stay!)
- An on-site speciality modern Indian restaurant and Hotel Bar with local ales and less formal dining
- Ample Free parking and easy access to Cotswold Lakes & Trails, scenic Villages, and fabulous pubs
Find out more about our dog-friendly stays.
Book Your Countryside Escape with Your Best Friend
With fresh air, winding trails, and welcoming pubs around every corner, a dog-friendly getaway in Malmesbury is the perfect way to slow down and reconnect with nature.
Book your stay at Pettifers Freehouse Hotel and enjoy countryside comfort, warm hospitality, and Cotswold adventure, with your four-legged friend by your side.
