Kelso: A Dog Friendly Destination
Everything you need to know about bringing your dog to Kelso from the best walking routes, to where to stay and dog-friendly shops and eateries.
Kelso is united by a few common denominators; we love our festivities – our civic week and race meets, we love fishing on our famous River Tweed and finally, we love our furry friends. You don’t need to venture far in Kelso to see we are a town of dog lovers and as such, we extend a warm welcome to our fellow dog owners to come and stay, shop and dine in Kelso.
Visit in the summertime for the Border Union Dog Show, where hundreds of dogs descend on the town to compete for ‘best in breed’ or pamper yourself with your pooch in tow at the luxurious 5* SCHLOSS Roxburgh which was voted the Top Luxe Property by dog-friendly holiday company PetsPyjamas.
If bringing along your canine companion is top priority when searching for your next staycation – we’ve fetched together this helpful guide to show you why Kelso comes out top dog. Whether you are looking for an active holiday hiking the Border’s countryside or a slower paced shopping destination, Kelso has it all.
Dog Friendly Accommodation in Kelso
Finding self-catering cottages in Kelso for you and your pet plus one is simple with these delightful holiday cottages, sure to feel like a home away from home. So often overlooked by those looking for a staycation in Scotland, the Borders offers some truly stunning holiday cottages, and better yet they are dog-friendly.
Crabtree & Crabtree
Crabtree & Crabtree are dedicated to providing some of the most whimsical and wonderful holiday lets in the Scottish Borders and as a team of dog lovers, they truly have made leaps and bounds to offer as many dog-friendly properties as possible. Indulge in a short break at the Head Gardener’s House at Floors Castle with up to 2 dogs welcome to join you. Here, dogs get the royal treatment with their own bed provided, treats upon arrival and unique access to the estate gardens after-hours. With magical walks along the river and woodlands around the estate to meander in, you’ll be hard-pushed to find a more majestic stay.
For a change of scenery, try out the Pennine Way cottage which warmly welcomes you and 3 of your furry walking companions for an active staycation full of fresh air. Set high on the hillside with a most impressive vista surrounding it, Pennine Way Cottage is doggy heaven. Stunning walks stretch out in every direction and there’s a dog-friendly pub just a half-mile amble from the cottage, perfect for a well-deserved pint and a rest for tired paws.
Looking for a small-town sanctuary? Get cosy in Greenhead Cottage on the fringes of Kelso, featuring an enclosed garden that you can access through French doors of the beautifully designed bedroom. Relax in style as your dog is free to frolic the hours away in the garden, a true haven for you and your sidekick.
For dog-friendly staycations in the UK, let Crabtree & Crabtree help.
Border Country Cottages
Border Country Cottages feature two beautiful holiday cottages in the surrounding countryside of Kelso. Nestled between neighbouring Kelso and Coldstream, their cottage Bartlehill sleeps up to 6 guests and is described as a perfect haven for you, your family and your pets to explore all the Borders has to offer. With stunning views of the rolling countryside around it, Bartlehill is equipped with a host of features to ensure you enjoy your stay. Lounge infront of a log-burning stove after a long day exploring or challenge your group to a game of darts in your very own games room.
Greenloaming can be found slightly more north-east near the town of Chirnside with a large, enclosed garden, perfect for your dog to play around in. This cosy cottage has a log burning stove to nestle infront of with a good book, or take a short walk into the nearby village of Allanton to enjoy a drink and meal at the local pub.
These beautiful homes are all set to welcome you and up to three dogs at no extra charge.
For dog-friendly holiday accommodation in Kelso, discover Border Country Cottages
Millsyde Holiday Cottage
For more dog friendly properties, Hendersyde offers the choice of two cosy farm cottages and Millsyde, a single storey country cottage which sleeps 6. This cottage has all the features you could need for your peaceful getaway, including a big country kitchen, log burner and luxurious under floor heating. Tucked away in a peaceful corner of the family farm, just over two miles downstream from Kelso, with walks across the farm and by the waterside – Millsyde offers the ideal spot for a dog walking holiday throughout the year.
For Scottish Borders Holiday Lets, visit Millsyde Holiday Cottage
Smailholm Mains Cottages
If you are seeking a quaint and cosy cottage to coorie away in, Craggs Cottage at Smailholm Mains has just the place for you. This idealic Scottish Borders holiday cottage is set in the heart of Smailholm village, 6 miles from neighbouring Kelso. The hosts of this little cottage take great pride in welcoming you with a true home-from-home experience and are on hand to help you get the very best from your stay. The homely Craggs Cottage sleeps up to 5 guests and includes a lovely open log fire to warm you up in the evenings. The property includes an enclosed garden for your pooch to safely nip out in and a kitted-out country kitchen to make you feel truly at home.
For dog-friendly holiday cottages in Scottish Borders, book with Smailholm Mains Cottage
Green Pastures Holiday Lodges
Offering something a little different, these timber lodges sleep up to 4 and allow for 2 dogs to join the party. The best part? Relax in your very own hot tub enjoying the stunning scenery of Kelso and beyond. When you’re not bathing in bubbles, find some amazing walking routes nearby including parts of the Pennine way and Bowmont Forest. These properties are located within 3 miles of Kelso, making Green Pastures Holiday Lodges the perfect bolthole for a Borders break.
For Scottish Border lodges with hot tubs, check out Green Pastures Holiday Lodges
The Old Smithy
Located in the quaint village of Ednam, only 2 miles from Kelso is a charming, single storey cottage ready to welcome you and your canine companion (or up to 2 dogs) for a wholesome weekend. With its dazzling 4 star rating, you can be certain of a clean and comfortable setting for your next Scottish Borders staycation. The Old Smithy, has 3 bedrooms and sleeps up to 7 guests making it the perfect home away from home for a family get together, a golfers retreat or couples getaway. Whatever the occasion, find a warm and relaxing rest for all away from the daily grind in the Old Smithy. You and your furry chum will sure to be charmed with a personalised doggy welcome treat bag on arrival as well as a ‘pick & mix’ treat jar to make your pet feel right at home. You’ll also find a host of helpful doggy items such as food and water bowls, poo bags, towels, blankets and a list of vets and fantastic local walks including walks directly from your doorstep. At the Old Smithy Cottage, they understand that home is where the heart is, and us dog owners have our pets at the heart of everything we do, so bring them along on your next Borders break.
For a true holiday home – away from home, visit The Old Smithy, Ednam.
Dog Friendly Shopping in Kelso
Part of Kelso’s charm is in its collection of independent shops, which you will find within the easily accessible town centre. This makes shopping in Kelso a pleasure, and with such a range of local shops, you are sure to find something you need, or did not yet know that you needed. Bringing along your furry friend? Why not! Our town centre is host to several dog friendly shops to make your day out a joy and is one of the reasons why Kelso is so popular for Scottish Borders shopping.
Pop into the fun and colourful 20 Storey, filled with books, gifts, stationary games and more. Find a unique present for a loved one or peruse their collection of deli treats to enjoy at home later.
Take a stroll along to Borders Cookware, a treasure trove of beautiful kitchen additions you’ll want to travel home with you at the end of your trip. The perfect place to pop in if you need to pick up a gift for a budding baker or find some charming pieces from the ever-popular Emma Bridgewater.
From there, you’ll find yourself a warm welcome in Catherine & Company, a showcase of local artists’ work including prints, accessories, pottery and gifts. You’ll find unique and artisan pieces to take home as a souvenir from your time in Kelso. While you’re in, pop through to sister shop Threads, a haven for textile lovers, gift givers and home-makers; full of exquisite Kilims, rugs and cushions as well as fabric, yarn & sewing kits to express your creative side.
Looking for country clothing in Kelso? Look no further than Humes Outfitters. With a shop dedicated to menswear and ladieswear, Humes can kit you out for your country weekend, whatever it looks like. Find wellies, walking boots and waterproof clothing for your active Scottish break, or treat yourself to some of the luxurious brands they have in store including R.M Williams, Dubarry, Barbour, Fairfax & Favor and Holland Cooper. Meet the Humes dog, Amble, who will gladly welcome another furry pal to her list of friends. With services such as made-to-measure suiting, kilt hire and private appointments available, Humes Outfitters offers a one-stop outfitting experience that is not to be missed.
From there, it’s a hop, skip and a jump to The Mole House, a gem in the heart of our wonderful historic town. A collection of charming and bespoke items, handpicked by the owner Claire to offer you unique and thoughtful additions to your home. Take all the time in the world to browse the shelves of magical items without the worry of leaving your dog outside. Did you know? The Mole House is a finalist in the Dog-Friendly Awards for the Shop Category and will head to the Awards Ceremony at The Kennel Club in London on 29 November 2023 – we wish them the very best of luck.
No country connoisseur should leave town without a visit to Country Corner first. This friendly and informative shop has everything you need for country life, including pet and animal care, equestrian clothing and accessories as well as a vast array of country clothing for men, women and children. A must for dog owners, you’ll find a collection of treats that are devilishly mouth-watering (for your dog!) as well as a host of dog beds, accessories, and toys. Country Corner encourages you to bring your dog in with you at any time, whether it is to browse their large collection of dog items or peruse their country clothing department.
Fallen in love with the town? We don’t blame you. Discover the best of Borders homes for sale with Hastings Legal. Their passionate team offers estate agency and legal services across the Borders. Plus, they are doggy people through and through, so your four-legged friends are just as welcome.
For more information on shopping in and around Kelso, click here.
Dog Friendly Restaurants in Kelso
After a day spent on your feet in Kelso, you may be looking for somewhere to nestle down for a nice meal. Don’t stress about leaving your four-legged friend behind, with our top dog friendly restaurant recommendations for Kelso.
The Knowes Eatery, Kelso
The Knowes Eatery will welcome you in for a cosy table or comfy sofa seating to relax and enjoy some freshly cooked food and home baking. Whether you fancy some coffee and cake, a hearty breakfast to start your day or a fabulous lunch of paninis, soup, salad, baked potatoes and more, The Knowes is truly the place to know. With a range of gluten-free options available, there is something for everyone in your party to enjoy. Best of all, The Knowes Eatery are dog lovers and proud, dedicating two areas of the café to allow for your pet to join you.
The Plough Inn, Leitholm
Located around 8 miles from Kelso is a friendly, family run inn offering a great place to stay and eat for the weary traveller! Dog in tow? The Plough Inn has a dog-friendly room to park up in, as well as your dog being most welcome to eat with you. With a large beer garden, this gem of a country inn is a great place to visit and relax in during the summer. Run completely by couple Sarah and David, a warm and homely welcome awaits you at the Plough Inn.
The Cream Chimneys, Kelso
The Cream Chimneys is the perfect spot for coffee and dog spotting. This cosy coffee shop not only offers a delightful array of sweet and savoury treats for you, but you will also find a ‘canine menu’ featuring 100% natural chews. A refreshing attitude to dog friendliness, The Cream Chimneys also make their own ‘doggy ice-cream’ which is hugely popular amongst Kelso’s hairy residents. Journey through into the gift shop to find a host of wonderful doggy-inspired items all from local artists including portraits, art and gifts. Find a friendly face and a few furry ones at The Cream Chimneys; the perfect pit stop during your trip into Kelso.
Bumbles of Kelso, Kelso
Named after their cherished Pomeranian, Bumbles of Kelso bakery may be small but they make mighty good food! Come in from the cold for some good old-fashioned homemade comforts from tasty pastries, cakes and traybakes to hearty filled rolls and home-made soup. With the love of dogs at the very heart of this little bakery, you are always welcome to pop in with your pet to take a good look at all the treats on offer.
For more information on eateries around Kelso, read more here.
Dog Walking Routes in and around Kelso
One thing that is so special about our beautiful border countryside, is how accessible it is to those who wish to enjoy it. From rolling hills and forest trails to winding walks along the rivers, the natural landscape of the Scottish Borders feels like a stones throw from us at all times. With that in mind, The Scottish Borders is a brilliant place for a dog-walking break in the UK, with its bountiful walking routes, proximity to the coast and availability of dog -friendly accommodation. Often overlooked as a holiday destination, the Scottish Borders is a best-kept secret for your next peaceful retreat to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Disconnect, pick up the dog lead and get out exploring with our top picks of the best dog walks around Kelso.
Kelso to Roxburgh
This circular route follows the course of the Borders Abbeys Way, snaking along the banks of the majestic River Teviot taking in miles of arable countryside as well as crossing the striking Roxburgh Viaduct. The route winds you into Kelso, entering via the Springwood Estate. A circular loop, you can then follow the old railway heading back out towards Roxburgh via a straightforward path.
Floors Castle and Estate
Whilst your dog can’t join you inside the castle, Floors Estate welcomes you and your furry friend to explore all that the grounds and garden have to offer. This includes wandering through their woodland walk, rambling along the River Tweed and enjoying the beautifully kept grounds of this magnificent building. Since the Castle and grounds close for winter and re-open in spring, it’s recommended to check the seasonal opening times before you go.
Bowmont Forest
Bowmont Forest is located near to the Village of Heiton, only 4 miles from Kelso. Here you will find a trio of waymarked walking trails of varying lengths. Each route leads you through this atmospheric forest as well as bringing you out onto the periphery where you can take in some breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
To explore more walking routes around Kelso, click here.
From all of us at Visit Kelso, we would like to wish you and your canine companion a very warm welcome to our town; a dog-friendly destination that we truly believe is something to bark about. For more information or to get in touch with us about your trip, click here.