Dog friendly things to do in Bristol

It's a fact: Bristol adores dogs. With an abundance of green space surrounding the city's key boroughs, dogs are just as welcome as humans (often more-so) in many of the pubs, cafes, shops, and public spaces. Here are five dog-friendly places that you and your dog will love...

By George Maguire | Updated Dec 13 2023

A medium-sized brown dog with a slightly graying muzzle sits calmly on a sidewalk. The dog is on a leash and wears a collar with tags. The background is a blurry, rainy street with parked cars and buildings out of focus. — Bristol Dogs

1) Enjoy The Courtyard Cafe at Ashton Court

Two dogs being walked on leashes, with a background of people sitting at tables outside a building with large windows. The dogs, with white fur and patches of black and brown, stand on a cobblestone path, looking attentively into the camera. — The Courtyard Café at Ashton Court

Ashton Court Estate, Bristol, BS41 9JN.

The Courtyard Cafe is an incredible place to start (or finish) a long hilly walk through the somewhat immense Ashton Gate Estate - all 850 acres of it! With much-needed toilets, artisan sourdough toasties, and drinks, you’ll be well looked after.

2) Explore the woodland at Leigh Woods

A view of the Clifton Suspension Bridge spanning the Avon Gorge in Bristol, England, seen from a vantage point obscured by foliage in the foreground. The bridge's distinctive towers and suspension cables are visible against a backdrop of a cityscape and overcast sky. — Leigh Woods View

Leigh Woods.

Leigh Woods Is a really special broadleaf woodland situated just on the other side of the Bristol Suspension Bridge. A National Nature Reserve, the woods offer unparalleled views back towards the bridge and the city beyond. Your dog will absolutely love the wooded trails where you can get lost in the very best sense of the word. Recommended!

3) Enjoy a Drink at The Malago or The Lazy Dog

A close-up of a dog with a black and white coat and amber-colored eyes looking up. The dog's nose is partially visible at the bottom of the image. Part of a wooden table can be seen in the upper left corner. — The Malago

The Malago on Bedminster’s North Street

220 North Street, BS3 1JD.

The Malago sits at the very epicentre of North Street’s unique energy. The team actively encourages visits from our four-legged friends, and even has an in-house resident pup called Buddy. Whilst not guaranteed, dogs are often given free treats by staff, so you can tuck into your brunch (the eggs Benedict is ace) or dinner without the usual pestering. Afterwards, head off to Greville Smyth Park after to stretch your collective legs!

The Lazy Dog in Ashley Down

112 Ashley Down Rd, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 9JR.

The Lazy Dog is a local’s favourite and a site where you can often find… you guessed it; a selection of relaxed dogs. The staff treat dogs as ‘VIP honoured guests’ and this warm welcome extends to the arrangement of water bowls, dog treats and all-access passes for dogs (although I would make sure to steer clear of the kitchen!). The pub is home to the pub manager’s two rescues and once a year, the ‘Dogs got Talent’ event kicks off in a serious way. To top it off, the Sunday roast, cooked with local produce is off the charts. Everyone is happy!

4) Visit Doghouse in Clifton

A barista at a café smiles and holds up a toy for a dog while talking to a customer who is holding a small black and white dog. The interaction occurs near the counter, with various dog treats and accessories displayed in the foreground. — Doghouse Clifton

18 Portland Street, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4JH.

Does your dog need some pampering? Have they recently destroyed a toy? Clifton's Doghouse could be the answer. With super-friendly staff (hardly a surprise for a pet shop to be fair) and treats, toys and accessories of all kinds; this is the place to pick up something new.

5) Head for a leg stretch on Clifton Downs

A quaint, red-roofed cottage with green trim sits nestled among tall trees and lush greenery. A dirt path leads up to the house, which features a small cupola on top. In the background, there's an industrial-looking structure partly visible among the trees. — The Clifton Downs

Clifton, Bristol

Loved by locals, The Downs are a massive, expansive space with many large fields ripe for the taking for any energetic four-legged friends. The Downs is an excellent destination if your looking to get out of the city and breath in some fresh air. We recommend stopping by The Downs Cafe for refreshments and depending on the season; dog ice cream.