Dog friendly stays in Dumfries and Galloway

Plan your perfect dog-friendy 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 plenty of outside space and we’re lucky to be surrounded by miles and miles of beautiful walks to enjoy. Many of our properties also have open fires and woodburning stoves to warm up by after a busy day 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 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 about to explore everything that this corner of South West Scotland has to offer. We also understand that the dogs want to come too, and it’s always handy to know the best spots!


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 and with ample parking, the BQA Hotel has 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 and there are plenty 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. Just let them know you’re bringing a dog and the team will do the rest.


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 heathy menu, but they make some of the best coffee this side of the border! The cafe is completely 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.

Frothy 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 breakfast and coffee….


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 out to explore the spectacular scenery and features of the 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 (take 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 home made and they are absolutely gorgeous! Dogs are allowed in to the cafe area too and there are plenty of water bowls around. There is also a lovely gift shop area packed with incredible gift ideas from local artists and producers.

Best for a post-walk coffee and cake….

Things to do during your stay at Auchenbrack and Thornhill