Is it even a holiday if the family dog doesn't join in?
Whether you plan to take to the hills exploring or spend your holiday relaxing by the fire and reading, we know just how important it is to find accommodation that suits you and your pet - particularly as Perthshire is the perfect holiday destination for a short break with your four legged friends.
Walking:
One of the most appealing reasons for holidaying with your dog in Perth and the wider area, has to be the abundance of scenic walks. From easy strolls through local parks and woods, to the challenge of a munro for those pets willing to climb, we can guarantee a tired and happy pooch each and every day!
Check out our Big Tree Country Blog for more inspiration.
www.perthcityandtowns.co.uk
Campsites and Caravans
We know that many dog lovers enjoy travelling on the open road, and as well as these wonderful accommodation options below, Perthhsire is also home to many excellent campsites and caravan parks.
Check out our 2022 blog for inspiration for touring vans and pitches.
www.perthcityandtowns.co.uk
You may also find it useful to visit our visitor management page which aims to answer your questions, helping you plan your stay and ensuring you have an enjoyable, safe and comfortable time in Perth city and towns.
www.perthcityandtowns.co.uk
Eating Out in Perthshire
Run by local dog lover Katie, and her ambassadog Baxter, Dog Friendly Perthshire prides itself on sniffing out the latest information about dog-friendly events and useful pet services, including pubs, restaurants and more.
Find out more on their excellent website or follow them on Facebook
The Royal George Hotel is situated on Perth’s Tay Street, just a few steps from the city centre, with stunning views over Scotland’s longest river. Welcoming guests since 1773, notable visitors include Queen Victoria whose residence here in 1848 prompted the original George Inn to be renamed as The Royal George Hotel in her honour. More recently, it was revealed that the Stone of Destiny will return to Perthshire as the centrepiece of a new museum at Perth City Hall, only 300m from the hotel.
The Royal George Hotel’s forty-five ensuite bedrooms have been tastefully decorated and benefit from speedy wi-fi and flat-screen TVs with built-in DVD players. In addition, many of the rooms enjoy wonderful river views and period features. Pets are welcome to stay with you at The Royal George Hotel with advance notification, a £15 additional charge per evening will apply.
Guests have complimentary use of the residents’ fitness suite featuring free weights and cardio equipment and the games room with pool table, games console and table football. The fully licensed bar and restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, or simply relax by the log fire in the lounge overlooking the hotel’s award-winning gardens.
Just outside Perth city, this historic stately house stands proud amid 365 acres of open countryside offering four-star luxury accommodation and award-winning hospitality. With extensive grounds for long walks, lots of hidden nooks and crannies, tantalising scents and room to play, it’s no surprise that this is a dog-friendly estate … dogs may even accompany their favourite humans around the golf course!
The suites in Balvaird House, just 50 yards from the main house, are all set aside as dog-friendly rooms. Surrounded by trees and overlooking the grounds, these provide the perfect family getaway – child, pet and golfer-friendly. You have easy access to all of the hotel’s amenities, including its array of award-winning food and drink, and dogs are allowed in the main hotel, Barrossa Bar and Cairns restaurant.
The Murrayshall team has put together two local walking routes which showcase the best of the surrounding landscape, flora and fauna, and also offers dog-friendly guided walks taking you off the beaten track. Look out, too, for Paws at the Palace, the annual go-to dog event held at Scone Palace, only 10 minutes’ drive from Murrayshall. It’s the perfect opportunity to treat your four-legged buddy to a grrreat day out!
The Scot is a bright and spacious two-bedroom pet-friendly flat in the centre of Perth, only a few minutes’ walk from the bus and train stations and close to many of the city’s cafés, restaurants, shops and parks. Situated on the second floor, there is one double bedroom and another twin bedroom with a third pull-out trundle bed.
The open-plan living space includes a fully fitted kitchen with breakfast bar alongside a comfy lounge area with TV and wi-fi. There are several long-stay carparks nearby offering very low rates, with onstreet parking free between 6pm-8am and all day Sunday.
Perth’s vibrant city centre is right outside your door, with its lively café quarter and much-loved indie shops and eateries. Pop into Brew and Chew on the High Street, where the staff love dogs as much as you do, and Fido can choose from his very own menu (bone appetit…!) Then how about burning off some energy on North or South Inch – located at the top and tail ends of Tay Street, these popular city parks are always buzzing with walkers, cyclists and families.
This stunning self-catering holiday home overlooking Loch Tay is within walking distance of the pretty conservation village of Kenmore, and only six miles from Aberfeldy. A modern, two-storied house situated in a quiet cul-de-sac, it sleeps up to eight people with two bedrooms ensuite and another two bedrooms sharing a family bathroom.
The comfortable open-plan living space has sliding patio doors which open onto a spacious furnished deck with breathtaking views across the water. The living room adjoins a cosy snug, with a double-sided wood burner between them. A well-equipped kitchen includes a double oven, induction hob and bean-to-cup coffee machine.
Outside, you find a beautiful 1-acre woodland garden and a fully-fenced lawn providing a safe children’s play space next to the house. The accommodation is pet-friendly, with up to two dogs allowed on the property at any time, by request, with a charge of £20 per dog.
The beautiful area around Tatha View features one of the largest deep water lochs in Scotland, with a lovely beach, a watersports centre and boats available to hire. You will find a range of activities nearby including golf, fishing, canoeing, white water rafting, horseriding, walking and cycling, as well as plenty of restaurants and bars. The Scottish Crannog Centre and all the attractions of Highland Safaris are just a few minutes away.
Rosemount Hotel in Pitlochry is a small, family-run establishment, located in a lovely Victorian villa which enjoys panoramic views over the town and the surrounding Perthshire hills. With a choice of 16 ensuite bedrooms, freshly cooked Scottish breakfasts, dinner from a daily-changing menu, and drinks at the fireside, this is the perfect base to explore the bustling town of Pitlochry and the wider area.
Rosemount Hotel is known for its exceptional pet-friendly facilities. Ideally situated at the heart of a network of forest walks and trails, and close to a dog-friendly park, your canine companion is also welcome to join you at mealtimes. Pet owners can completely relax as there’s no need to leave your favourite furball tucked away in your room. The staff at Rosemount Hotel are truly appreciative of their animal guests, and will go the extra mile to cater for their needs, right down to the tiny details.
There are many places of interest within easy reach of the hotel, perfect for a jam-packed family holiday. Catch a show at Pitlochry Festival Theatre, see the salmon leaping at Pitlochry Fish Ladder and Dam, or check out the fishing, watersports and bike hire available at Pitlochry Boating Station.
Situated at the eastern edge of Loch Rannoch in an area renowned for its spectacular scenery, Loch Rannoch Hotel, Estate and Spa is the perfect base for exploring the Highlands. This popular four-star resort reopened its doors in 2021 after a complete renovation, with each of its 52 guest bedrooms fully refurbished and its restaurants and bars rebranded. The luxurious Rannoch Spa and new MATRIX fitness suite with state-of-the-art gym equipment are fabulous new additions to the resort, and there are more exciting plans in the pipeline.
Loch Rannoch Hotel and Estate is a dog-friendly resort where dogs are treated as part of the family. There are fantastic local walking routes, and dogs are welcome to explore the 250-acre grounds. The hotel offers a number of rooms designated as dog friendly – for a charge of £20 per dog, per night, these include the use of a comfortable dog bed, dog towel, water bowl, and a complimentary bag of treats. Well-behaved dogs may join their owners in the Wild Brownie Bar, and on the terrace, where guests can enjoy classic and contemporary dining and drinks.
There is plenty to see and do in the surrounding area – watersports and wild swimming, cycling and hiking, indoor racquet sports, golf, whisky distillery tours and tastings, retail therapy, or even a trip on the Jacobite Steam Train, described as ‘the greatest railway journey in the world’!
Three miles from Gleneagles, and only an hour from Edinburgh and Glasgow, you can escape city life and get back to nature in this beautiful part of Perthshire. Glamping in the grounds of Alexander House gives you all the pleasures of camping but with the ease and comfort of luxury accommodation. Opt to stay in a spacious wind and waterproof yurt with ensuite bathroom, or a cosy cabin on wheels – once a horse lorry, and now a fun and fabulous option for a family holiday or romantic getaway.
The two converted horse lorries – Juniper and Thistle – both welcome dogs. Juniper has a double bed and clawfoot bath and Thistle has a queen-size bed and shower room. In each, up to two children under 10 will adore the wee nook over the lorry cab where they can sleep. Central heating will keep you snug indoors, or pop outside for a dip in your very own hot tub, perfect for relaxing under the night sky or appreciating the incredible scenery right on your doorstep (bottle of bubbly optional!)
Just a few minutes from Gleneagles and the busy town of Auchterarder, Whitemoss Lodge Eco Pods offer private accommodation with all the modern comforts of a hotel. Set in spacious grounds with an uninterrupted view of the surrounding countryside, these luxury pods are the first of their kind in Perthshire, constructed using sustainable methods and materials. For the perfect hideaway, simply take a seat on your secluded veranda and drink in the stunning landscape all around.
Inside your pod, you will find a king-size bed, ensuite bathroom with shower, mini-fridge, TV and wi-fi. A generous breakfast is delivered straight to your door, at a time that suits you, and two of the Eco Pods boast their own top-of-the-range hot tub, barbecue and firepit.
All of the Whitemoss Lodge Eco Pods are dog friendly and dogs are welcomed as part of the family. There are plenty of places to roam but please keep your dog on a lead, especially during lambing season (your neighbours are of the woolly variety!) There is no extra charge for bringing your dog, and they will even receive a special tasty treat at breakfast time.
Choose from a wide variety of things to do in the local area – you are in a prime location to walk and cycle, try a new adventure sport, treat yourself to a hotel spa day, or seek out the renowned local farm produce, soft fruits and cheese, hand-made chocolates, whisky and artisan gin.
These three authentic log cabins are situated on a farm ten miles south of Perth and form a true rural retreat with unspoiled elevated views. Wildlife abounds here and wonderful nature walks start as soon as you step into the fresh air.
Through French doors you find an open-plan living space complete with central heating and fully fitted kitchen, a bedroom with a king-size bed, and a bathroom with double-jacuzzi bath. Outside, there is an attractive decking area with patio furniture, and a private hot tub and sauna. Fingask Log Cabins are pet friendly and allow one dog in each cabin. The log cabins are suitable for two people, no babies or children.
The historic village of Glenfarg is close by, as are several farm shops stocked with delicious fresh produce. You can enjoy golf, cycling, gliding, riding and fishing in the local area, or make the most of your central location to reach a host of historic attractions and leisure facilities within a short drive.
A converted self-catering apartment within the Old Town Hall in Kinross, Kinross Residence has been immaculately redesigned and furnished to give it the wow factor, inside and out. In the heart of town, this stunning property is perfectly placed for a short break with family or friends and, of course, it is pet friendly too. Shops, cafés and restaurants are all within walking distance, Perth is only a 20-minute drive away, or opt to simply chill out in style in your home-from-home.
The apartment sleeps four to six guests in two double bedrooms, each with a king-size bed, and a mezzanine area with two single beds. The open-plan living space boasts a 50” flat-screen TV, a raised dining area, and a contemporary kitchen workspace and breakfast bar. The interior has been renovated to a high standard, with attention to detail and a sleek modern finish.
There is a dedicated parking space right outside the main entrance door, and further free parking just down the road. Up to two well-behaved dogs are welcome at the property on request (additional charges per dog will apply).
Aikenhead House is a place to unwind, unplug and relax for a few days. An ecofriendly smallholding with assorted animal residents and a large organic veggie garden, it is the dream project of owners Adam and Rosie Baxendine who gladly exchanged corporate life for the good life. A few minutes south-west of Blairgowrie, this is a beautiful area for walking, cycling, wild swimming, kayaking, or simply pottering about the smallholding with the dogs, horses, sheep and goats.
Holiday accommodation here is dog friendly, but please ensure he or she stays off the furniture and on a lead outside (you don’t want to startle the chickens!) Choose to stay in The Attic or The Cottage, each providing a cosy self-contained living space for two, or glamp off-grid in the orchard – its roomy canvas bell tent doesn’t skimp on the little luxuries: a wood-burning stove, a proper bed, and your own private hot tub.
Adam and Rosie are available to organise all kinds of outdoor activities, provide you with that all-important map, and will happily feed you up on their freshly baked sourdough, newly laid eggs, and other tempting locally sourced goodies.
On a secluded spot by the River Tay, at the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, you will find four-star Ballathie House offering luxury accommodation paired with award-winning fine dining. This country house hotel dates from 1880 but has been refurbished to the highest standard. Spacious suites with king-size beds, sumptuous bathrooms and spectacular views ensure guests the utmost comfort in a historic setting.
If it all sounds a little grand for your favourite furball, don’t worry – at Ballathie House Hotel your dog will receive an exceptionally warm welcome. The VIP package guarantees your Very Important Pooch will be pampered just as they deserve, with their own entranceway, a bag of tasty treats, and a welcome gift. As a special treat, your best four-legged friend may dine alongside you during breakfast or in the evening (on request and subject to availability).
Dinner, bed and breakfast packages are available throughout the year, simply quote ‘Pampered Pooch’ for the best possible rate.
This peaceful 10-acre site is the perfect location for a family break or a secluded romantic getaway.
Set amid stunning mountain scenery north of Blairgowrie you can relax and unwind in our peaceful 10-acre site. Glenshee Glamping is the perfect location for a family break or a secluded romantic getaway.
With plenty of space to roam, come and chill with our friendly Llamas, Donkeys, Goats, Chickens and Ducks. Glenshee Glamping gives you that exhilarating outdoor camping vibe, but without any need to unroll the canvas and hammer in the pegs. Choose to stay in one of our authentic shepherd’s huts, cosy pods for 2 or family glamping pods, log cabin for 6, emperor bell tent or even a fully restored 1940s converted railway wagon (or you can bring your own tent if you wish!)
All accommodation here includes a comfy double bed and indoor heating. Hot showers, wood-burning stoves and wood-fired hot tubs will keep you toasty – don’t miss sitting outside under an endless starlit sky – and there are cooking and dining facilities on site.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Glenshee Glamping. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and dangerous breeds are not permitted.
New Instructor-led Archery sessions are not just aimed for youngster's but for adults too, Staying at Glenshee Glamping means holiday activities for the whole family. Have you or your kids ever dreamed of being Robin Hood? See how sharp your eye is! Sharpen your skills, develop your focus and concentration, and bring out the medieval archer in you! Our Archery GB Qualified Instructor led sessions, will help you learn Archery, you’ll be hitting the bullseye in no time!
One of the best-kept secrets in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, The Four Seasons Hotel is located in the picturesque conservation village of St Fillans, with breathtaking views across Loch Earn. A long-established award-winning independent hotel, it has recently benefitted from some fresh touches and its ensuite rooms with flat-screen TVs now boast new king-size beds and mood lighting.
Most importantly, The Four Seasons Hotel loves dogs! It also loves cats and other animals, and all pets stay for free. Dogs are allowed in the bedrooms (dog beds are provided) and there are dog towels in reception for after a swim or if you get caught in the rain. There are dog blankets in the bar along with a biscuit jar, toys and water bowls, and the promise of lots of fuss and attention.
There are always spare leads and a map for planning walks. The Four Seasons also offers pre-booked services for dog walking and pet sitting for the daytime or evening, a selection of dog and cat food is available and for any minor health issues they partner with Crieff Vets.
Adjacent to the hotel there are holiday chalets and a two-bedroom self-catering apartment overlooking the loch. All are dog-friendly but the apartment gives families with two or three dogs a bit more space to stretch out. For more information check out Finn’s Blog on the Four Seasons website – it’s a dog’s life!
Bring the dog to this 230-acre estate where you can camp, bike, eat and hike to your heart’s content, just a few miles west of Crieff. An award-winning hostel and eco campsite, Comrie Croft enjoys superb mountain views and easy accessibility from the central belt. With dedicated trails for walkers and mountain bikes, the opportunity for wild swimming in the still waters of nearby Loch Earn, and the starting points to climb Ben Chonzie and Ben Vorlich a short drive away, you and the pooch are all set for the great outdoors.
Accommodation at Comrie Croft includes a comfortable, self-contained farmhouse, best for families or small groups. Or stay in the steading where private ensuite rooms are complemented by a communal kitchen, lounge, barbecue area and fire pit creating the convivial vibe of a hostel. And, of course, there are the camping grounds with clean loos and hot showers. Here, you might also stay in one of the Nordic katas – handmade tipi-style tents nestled amongst birch trees, entirely waterproof and with a wood-burning stove inside. Drift off to sleep with the sound of deer and owls outside, and the rustling of leaves overhead.
Well-behaved and quiet dogs on a lead are very welcome at Comrie Croft. There are lots of great walks to take them on, not to mention those exciting countryside smells to sniff. There is a charge of £3 per dog, per night, for camping, or £5 per night if staying in any of the indoor accommodation. A maximum of two dogs are allowed in each room, kata or camping pitch.
Situated within the grounds of the Methven Castle Estate, Gardeners Cottage is a private retreat with a lovely walled garden dating from 1796. Melding traditional charm with modern conveniences, this three-bedroom pet-friendly holiday home is ideal for a relaxing break with family and friends.
A detached property set over two floors, it includes a sun porch to the rear overlooking the garden – the perfect spot to curl up with a book – and a spacious living area with a real fire and grand piano. A separate well-equipped kitchen has a dining table seating six. Outside, there is ample parking space for two to three cars.
From this peaceful and self-contained starting point, you are in a prime position to explore the best of Perthshire. You are six miles from the city with its award-winning restaurants, artisanal food producers and vibrant arts scene, or venture further afield to the lochs and mountains of the Southern Highlands.