Dog-friendly things to do in London this summer
Summer in London is better with good company, and for dog owners, that often means bringing your four-legged companion along for the day. Across the capital, plans with your pooch now go far beyond the usual park walk, with dedicated festivals, relaxed dog-friendly restaurant terraces, cinema screenings, stylish shops and even swimming spots made with dogs in mind.
The Big Woof, King’s Cross
For a full day dedicated to dogs, The Big Woof in King’s Cross is one to add to the calendar. Taking place on 12 and 13 September 2026, the free dog festival has dog-friendly activities, independent pet brands, treats, accessories and plenty of opportunities for your dog to be thoroughly admired.
King’s Cross is already one of London’s most dog-friendly neighbourhoods, with canal-side walks, open spaces and more than 25 restaurants, cafes and bars welcoming dogs. After exploring the festival, you can continue the day at nearby spots such as Coal Drops Yard
Dog cafes in London
Searching for a dog cafe in London? The capital has several cafes and experiences created specifically around dogs, whether you want to bring your own companion, meet resident dogs or combine coffee with grooming and pet shopping.
CuppaPug in Hackney is a dedicated pug cafe where visitors can enjoy coffee, cake and time with its resident and rescue pugs. The hour-long CuppaPug experience includes cuddles and playtime with around 10 to 12 pugs, while selected dogs at the café are also available for adoption. Visits should be booked in advance.
Snuffle Dog Café & Wine Bar in Sydenham offers a secure space where dogs can play while their owners have coffee, wine or something to eat. The dog-focused venue also includes grooming services, a pet shop and events, making it more than a quick cafe stop. Visitors without their own dog are welcome too, although unlike CuppaPug, Snuffle does not promise resident dogs.
For a dog café with a little extra luxury, Verve London in Notting Hill combines a café bar with a pet boutique, grooming parlour, dog daycare and pet hotel. Browse its collection of collars, leads, toys and treats, or relax with a drink while your dog is being groomed.
Dog-friendly pubs in London
The best dog-friendly pubs in London combine a warm welcome with a location made for a walk before or after your visit. From historic inns beside Hampstead Heath to canal-side terraces and leafy beer gardens, these are a few popular options across the capital.
The Spaniards Inn is a historic pub dating back to 1585, positioned beside Hampstead Heath. Its traditional interiors and large garden make it a particularly convenient stop after exploring the Heath with your dog. Dogs are welcomed in the bar and garden, but restrictions may apply to the dining room, so check when booking.
Overlooking Regent’s Canal in Islington, The Narrowboat is well placed for a drink after a waterside walk. Dogs are welcomed in its bar and garden areas, with water bowls, biscuits and blankets available, while the canal-side terrace is particularly appealing on a warm summer evening.
People’s Park Tavern sits on the edge of Victoria Park, making it an easy addition to an East London dog walk. The pub has one of the area’s largest beer gardens, with outdoor benches, heated cabins and plenty of room to settle in after exploring the park. Water bowls are available for dogs.
In Barnes, The Brown Dog is an independently owned pub and dining room near Barnes Common. Dogs are welcomed alongside locals and visitors, and the pub has its own garden as well as a frequently changing seasonal menu.
Dog policies can vary between indoor dining areas, bars and gardens, particularly during busy periods, so check directly with the pub before visiting.
Paws & Pours at Humble Grape
If your ideal summer plan includes a glass of wine and your dog at your feet, Paws & Pours at Humble Grape is a relaxed social event designed for dog lovers. Hosted at their Islington and Canary Wharf locations, the event combines guided wine tasting with dog-friendly treats, pet drinks and a sociable terrace setting.
Upcoming dates include 19 September and 17 October 2026. You’ll find sustainable wines from independent producers, a friendly crowd and plenty for dogs to enjoy while their owners taste their way through the afternoon at a dog-friendly pub in London.
Picturehouse dog-friendly screenings
For days when the weather is too hot, too wet or simply too unpredictable (after all, this is London), Picturehouse’s dog-friendly screenings are a brilliant indoor alternative. Selected cinemas run dog-friendly showings with lower sound levels, slightly brighter lighting and a more relaxed environment for dogs.
Picturehouse regularly lists dog-friendly screenings across its programme. Before booking, make sure you select a designated dog-friendly screening, as standard showings don’t usually allow dogs. It’s hard to beat seeing a latest release on the big screen, and Picturehouse is a great dog-friendly cinema in London to enjoy.
Saltdean Lido dog swims
Strictly speaking, Saltdean Lido is outside of London, but it earns its place here for anyone looking for a summer day trip with serious dog appeal. Dogtember 2026 runs across four weekends, beginning 12 and 13 September and continuing until 3 and 4 October, with dedicated dog sessions in the lido’s heated outdoor pool.
Each day includes 90-minute sessions, with selected quiet sessions as well as options for different dog sizes. Dogs can swim in the main pool, use the splash pool and enjoy the secure outdoor setting, while owners can choose whether to swim too or watch from poolside. It’s a particularly fun option if your dog loves water and you’re happy to make a day of it beyond the city.
Hampstead Heath dog ponds
For a classic London dog day, Hampstead Heath is hard to beat. With wide open paths, grassy slopes and views across the city, it’s one of the best places in London for a longer walk with your dog.
If your dog loves swimming, Hampstead Heath also has the legendary dog pond. Local guidance notes that dogs should only swim in the designated pond and within the floating barriers, helping protect wildlife and other pond users.
Battersea Park and Battersea Power Station
Battersea is a natural choice for a dog-friendly spot in London, especially if you’re staying at art’otel Battersea Power Station. Start with a walk through Battersea Park, then head towards Battersea Power Station for a spot of dining and people-watching.
The area works particularly well for an easy summer day with your dog, with wide walkways, access to the Thames Path and plenty to explore around the neighbourhood. It’s a simple route you can do at your own pace, whether you’re heading out for a morning walk or an early evening stretch by the river.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of London’s most accessible options for a central dog walk, whether you’re planning a gentle lap or a route that goes throughout the park. Dogs are welcome across the Royal Parks, although some areas require leads or don’t allow dogs, including children’s playgrounds, toilets, certain cafes, sensitive wildlife areas and spaces near water.
As with any busy London park in summer, it’s worth visiting earlier or later in the day during hot weather, keeping water with you and looking out for signs that indicate where dogs should be on a lead.
Liberty London
For a more unexpected dog-friendly outing, Liberty London is a stylish choice. The department store allows well-behaved dogs both in-store and at its restaurant.
It’s a great option if you want a summer shopping trip that doesn’t mean leaving your dog behind. Just make sure your dog is comfortable in busy indoor spaces and considerate of other shoppers.
Book a dog-friendly holiday at art’otel
Make your dog-friendly plans even easier with a stay at art’otel London Battersea Power Station or art’otel London Hoxton. Both are dog-friendly hotels, with thoughtful touches including dog-friendly dining areas, beds and bowls for your dog and team members who can help with local recommendations.
Choose Battersea for riverside walks and easy access to one of London’s most exciting neighbourhoods, or head to Hoxton to explore East London and nearby Regent’s Canal Walk. Wherever your summer plans take you, your dog can come along too.
