London England Travel: Is it Dog-Friendly?

Where are pets allowed in London? London is a dog-friendly city, and many people in London own dogs as pets. There are also many dog-friendly hotels, shops, restaurants, and other attractions in the city. However, it is always a good idea to check with the specific location you will be visiting to ensure that they allow dogs before you travel with your dog. It is also a good idea to be aware of any local laws or regulations regarding dogs, and to make sure that your dog is up to date on all necessary vaccinations.

In London, dogs are generally allowed in public spaces, such as parks and gardens, although they must be on a leash and under the control of their owner. 

Dog-Friendly Public Transport in London

How do you travel with a dog in London? Dogs are also allowed on public transportation in London, although they must be on a leash and wear a muzzle. London’s transport system can seem complex for us humans, so making a journey with your dog can require some forward planning. Luckily, TfL is dog-friendly and our four-legged friends are allowed on all London buses, trains, tubes and trams for free.

• London Buses: Yes, the London buses are dog-friendly. The bright red, double decker buses of London are a globally recognizable form of public transportation, known for their iconic design and cost-effective convenience for traveling within the city;
• London Trams: Yes, the London trams are dog-friendly. London's Tramlink, a contemporary tram system, operates in certain areas of southern London, comprising 39 stations and four routes connecting Wimbledon, Croydon, Beckenham, and New Addington. These trams share the same fare system as buses, with a standard rate of £1.55;
• London Underground (the Tube): Yes, it's dog-friendly. The London Underground, commonly known as the "Tube", is the world's oldest and third-longest metro system, dating back to 1863 and serving 270 stations. It is easily recognizable by its iconic logo, a red circle with "Underground" written in blue, as distinguished as the red double decker bus;
• London Overground: Yes, it's dog-friendly. The London Overground, referred to simply as the Overground, is a suburban rail network that serves Greater London, consisting of 112 stations across nine routes. Similar to the London Underground and the Docklands Light Railway, it utilizes a zone-based fare system, which can be paid using an Oyster card, paper tickets, smart cards and contactless payment cards.

Read more: 13 Unique Dog-Friendly European Destinations in Europe

#6 Best Things To Do When Visiting London With Dogs

Find out the best dog-friendly London: parks, events, attractions, views and restaurants. London is a very dog-friendly city to do things with your dog. Here are some ideas for things you and your dog can do in England:

#1 Visit a Dog-Friendly Park in London

Which London parks allow dogs? London is a city with high population density, but it is also home to numerous parks and woodland trails where dogs can roam and play freely. Off-leash exercise is essential for the health and well-being of dogs, as it allows them to move at their own natural pace rather than being restricted to our slower walking speed.

1. Hampstead Heath: As far as views of London go, they don’t get much better than when perched atop Parliament Hill, the summit of hilly Hampstead Heath. Sometimes known as ‘kite hill’ due to its popularity among kite flyers, the mound is nearly 100 metres high. Spanning a huge 320 hectares (790 acres), this wildlife-rich parkland is among the biggest in London and features woodlands, vast heaths and swimming ponds, including one dedicated to dogs that enjoy a dip in the water. This large park is located in the north of the city and is a great place to take your dog for a walk or hike;

2. Hyde Park: It’s London’s most famous – and perhaps busiest – park, but dogs are welcomed here with open paws. Hyde Park is one of the Royal Parks and forms a huge rectangular green lung in the middle of central London;

3. Regent's Park: This beautiful park is located in the center of the city and is home to a number of dog-friendly areas;

4. Greenwich Park: Home to the Royal Observatory and the famous Meridian Line, which divides the earth’s eastern and western hemispheres, this sprawling park is packed full of history dating back to Roman times. This large park is located in the south of the city and offers beautiful views of the city. It is a great place to take your dog for a walk or hike;

5. Battersea Park: This Thames-side gem spans 90 hectares (200 acres) with lakes, woodland areas, designated nature spots and open space. This park is located in the south of the city and is home to a number of dog-friendly areas;

6. Victoria Park: This large park is located in the east of the city and is a great place to take your dog for a walk or to let them play;

7. Alexandra Palace and Park: Surrounding the magnificent Victorian palace affectionately known as ‘Ally Pally’, this 80 hectare (196 acre) parkland provides dog walkers with a mixture of woodland and open grassland, with ornamental gardens and a boating lake to admire on their way around. It’s also got a fascinating history – including spells as a refugee camp during both world wars – and the panoramic views over the London skyline from the top of the hill are hard to beat.

8. Crystal Palace Park: The main draw of Crystal Palace Park comes in prehistoric form, with dinosaur statues lurking in the trees around the lake. Sculpture and fossil expert Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins and founder of the Natural History Museum, Richard Owen;
9. Clissold Park: This compact park in Stoke Newington, Hackney, offers a glimpse into the rural past of what is now one of London’s most densely populated boroughs. Clissold Park started life as a country estate known as Stoke Newington Park, with historic Clissold House – then called Paradise House – at its heart.

Keep in mind that it is always a good idea to check with the specific location you will be visiting to ensure that they allow dogs before you travel with your dog. It is also a good idea to be aware of any local laws or regulations regarding dogs, and to make sure that your dog is up to date on all necessary vaccinations.

Read more: Rules & Requirements: Travelling in Europe With a Dog

#2 Explore The Cultural Camden Market in London

Camden is a well-known cultural neighborhood in north London. Known for its alternative culture, the crowds here are filled with goths, punks, rockabillies and tourists alike. Camden has a vibrant body mod community and you will find a number of piercing and tattoo shops in this part of town.

Camden Market is eclectic and diverse, featuring street food from international cuisines, and lots of stalls selling trinkets and unique artwork to take home. Rummage through vintage clothing racks, find a used book to take on your travels, or visit one of the city’s best vegan bakeries at Cookies And Scream.

What to do in Camden Market in London?

• Camden Lock Market: Check out Camden Lock Market and browse the stalls for crafts, books, clothing, jewellery and fast food;
• Camden Lock Village: sells clothing and accessories, as well as a range of unusual items;
• Camden High Street: Go on a shopping spree on Camden High Street, which is home to big fashion brands and vintage clothing stores.

Read more: How To Travel With A Dog in The Car? Dog Car Seat

#3 Best Dog-Friendly Attractions in London

There are many dog-friendly attractions in London, where you can bring your furry friend along with you. Some popular options include:

1. Tower Bridge: Start at the eye-catching Tower Bridge, close to the battlements of the Tower of London. This iconic bridge is a must-see attraction in London and offers beautiful views of the city. You and your furry friend will get to climb the famous Towers and learn the thrilling stories of those who brought this iconic national monument into being;

2. The Royal Parks of London: Dogs are welcome in all the Royal Parks although there are some places where they are not allowed or must be kept on a lead. Get active with a gentle stroll, outdoor swim or bike ride. Connect with nature in some of the capital’s largest open spaces and most valuable habitats for wildlife. Enjoy world-class concerts, year-round events and community projects. Take part in group sports, education activities or volunteering. Or just watch the world go by in landscapes shaped by their unique history;

3. Borough Market: Welcome to Borough Market: a historic market in central London with an emphasis on high quality food, sustainable production and social connection;

4. Neal's Yard: Hidden inside colourful courtyard Neal's Yard, you'll find a micro-village full of independent restaurants, bars, cafés and shops.

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#4 Visit Covent Garden With Your Dog

Covent Garden is a vibrant neighborhood in the heart of London known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment. It is home to the famous Covent Garden Market, which has been a major shopping destination for centuries and is now home to a variety of unique shops and stalls selling everything from souvenirs and gifts to fashion and home goods.

There are also many theaters and live entertainment venues in the area, including the Royal Opera House, which is home to the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet. You can also find a number of street performers and entertainers throughout the neighborhood, which adds to its lively atmosphere.

In addition to shopping and entertainment, Covent Garden is also home to a wide range of restaurants and cafes, so you can easily find something to eat or drink while you're there. Some popular places to try include the Market Building, which is home to a number of food stalls, and the Food Hall at Neal's Yard, which is a popular spot for artisanal food and drinks.

Overall, Covent Garden is a great place to visit for anyone looking for a fun and lively experience in the heart of London. Whether you're interested in shopping, dining, or entertainment, there is something for everyone in this vibrant neighborhood.

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#5 Visit Leadenhall Market in London

Leadenhall Market is a historic market in the City of London, England. It is located on Gracechurch Street and dates back to the 14th century. The market is primarily a covered market, with a Victorian glass and iron roof and a variety of shops, including butchers, fishmongers, and greengrocers. It is also home to several pubs and restaurants. The market is a popular tourist destination and is known for its architectural beauty.

Are you looking for all the Leadenhall Market Harry Potter filming locations that you can visit in London? If you didn’t know, Leadenhall Market featured in the very first Harry Potter movie as the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron! 

This is where Harry Potter and Hagrid enter and make their way to Diagon Alley, the magical shopping street of the Wizarding World. So, if you’re a Potterhead you simply must add this incredible historic marketplace to your London itinerary while you’re here.

Read more: Ugly Truth About Car Sickness By Dogs

#6 Take Your Dog to Pop Brixton

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