Plan Your Perfect Dog-Friendly Stay in Dumfries and Galloway at Auchenbrack
We understand that dogs are part of the family. They’re a part of ours, too. That’s why all of our self-catering properties are dog-friendly. As well as having the freedom to roam the 2000-acre estate, we’ve put together some of our top things to do and places to go with your four-legged friends during your stay.
Book Your Dog-Friendly Cottage on the Auchenbrack Estate or in Thornhill Village Centre
We love dogs…
All of our self-catering properties are dog-friendly. We don’t charge anything extra for our canine visitors, and there are no hidden cleaning fees. All we ask is that you don’t let them jump up onto the beds or furniture, that’s it!
Each of our properties has ample outdoor space, and we’re fortunate to be surrounded by miles of beautiful walks to enjoy. Many of our properties also feature open fires and wood-burning stoves to warm up by after a busy day of exploring.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants, Pubs, and Cafes near Thornhill and Auchenbrack
Dumfries and Galloway is a great place to come on holiday with your dogs. Here are some of our favourite places to eat during your stay. Every single one is dog-friendly and will be happy to welcome you and your canine companions so that you can enjoy a lunch, evening meal, or even breakfast and morning coffee in one of our excellent, local gems.
If you’re spending a few days with us here at Auchenbrack or in our Hotel Cottage in Thornhill, we highly recommend getting out and exploring everything this corner of South West Scotland offers. We also understand that the dogs want to come too, and knowing the best spots is always handy!
Best for Pub Lunches and Evening Meals
The Buccleuch and Queensberry Arms Hotel in Thornhill is our absolute favourite spot for an excellent meal. Situated right in the centre of the village, with ample parking, the BQA Hotel boasts a traditional, warm, and cosy interior, a superb menu, and great staff.
The lounge bar and restaurant are completely dog-friendly, so you can take your whole party out for lunch, dinner, and maybe even a few cocktails. The menu is fresh, local, and seasonal, offering a variety of inventive Vegan, Vegetarian, and gluten-free options, as well as a kids’ menu.
If you’re staying at our Hotel Cottage, the BQA is right in your back garden! If you’re staying at Auchenbrack, it’s a 15-minute drive down the Glen.
You can view menus, find more information, and book your table directly through their website. Simply let them know you’re bringing a dog, and the team will take care of the rest.
Best for Breakfast and Coffee
Frothy Bike Co. in Dumfries is one of the best independent cafes in the region and is well worth a visit. Not only do they serve a fantastic, fresh, and healthy menu, but they also make some of the best coffee this side of the border! The cafe is entirely dog-friendly and there’s ample parking right across the road on Dumfries’ Whitesands. Enjoy your breakfast, coffee, or snack with a gorgeous view of the river Nith.
The Frothy Bike Co. is also a bike shop and bike repair centre. So if you’re a cycling enthusiast, then there’s no better place to drop in! It’s also a great place to stop if you’re having a day exploring the town of Dumfries.
Best for a Post-Walk Coffee and Cake
Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre sits on the banks of the gorgeous Clatteringshaws Loch, in the heart of the Galloway Forest Park. No visit to the area is complete without a day spent exploring the spectacular scenery and features of Forest Park.
Why not take a walk down to the Otter Pools, wander around the loch, walk the Red Kite Trail, visit the red deer (bring a bag of carrots!), and follow it all up with a hot drink and a snack at the visitor centre cafe. The cakes here are all homemade and gorgeous! Dogs are also welcome in the cafe area, and there are plenty of water bowls available. There is also a lovely gift shop area packed with incredible gift ideas from local artists and producers.
