Let’s face it, going on holiday with your dog is infinitely better than that tearful kennel drop-off, minutes ticking by on the plane whilst missing them and wondering what mischief they’re getting up to without you. We understand, it’s basically emotional sabotage, and let’s not even talk about the mood swing when you get back! Fortunately, at South Winchester Lodges we welcome all canine companions, after all, a staycation just isn’t the same without the whole pack.
So, let us welcome you to the real Dog Days of Summer in beautifully luxury accommodation. Think warm days, sniffable trails to wander, doggy picnics and private balconies that become the favourite space for snoozing and back scratches (your dog will enjoy it too!).
So, why bring your dog?
Simply put, our lodge-loving pooches have access to all the things that make their tails wag, surrounded by ancient woodlands with squirrels around every corner and just minutes away from many a dog friendly place.
The local beaches have dog friendly zones, there is a vast choice of countryside and parks, pubs and restaurants and of course, trails to explore.
Walkies, Winchester style
From gentle meanders in the local parks to riverside strolls along the River Itchen (full of buzzing and flapping to capture the attention of any pup). Whether it’s a loop around St. Catherine’s Hill (the flat part) or a pub-bound ramble via the South Downs Way, there’s no shortage of things to explore, new sights to see, new smells to sniff and friendly passers-by who are rewarded with a little wag as you pass.
If your four-legged explorer is ready to burn some energy, you’re in luck. Farley Mount Country Park is a local favourite, with wide open spaces and plenty of off-lead freedom across woodland and chalk downland, not to mentioned lovely places to picnic, spread out on a blanket and watch the clouds go by. There are no cliffs or steep drops to worry about, so it’s a relaxing time all round. The Viaduct Way (part of National Cycle Route 23) has a smooth trail to wander which follows an old abandoned rail track, perfect for paws, pushchairs and little feet. For a relaxed riverside wander, the Itchen Navigation Heritage Trail is peaceful and picturesque, especially around Wharf Hill. If recall can make you nervous in new places, Winnall Moors Nature Reserve has lovely lead-only paths with plenty to see and sniff so you can wander at leisure.
Looking for the paw-fect place to eat?
Just like us, our city welcomes dogs (and their owners) to come in and have a bite. The Golden Lion’s dedicated doggy garden on the edge of the South Downs offers traditional pub grub, Sunday roasts and is vegan friendly. The Wykeham Arms’ allows dogs to join you in the bar area and outside. The Black Boy Pub dishes out gravy bones specifically for that much needed snack after your walk and The Bell Inn welcomes your dog too, but you will need to bring your own bowl and treats. We told you we were a welcoming destination! The Bishop on the Bridge has a sunny terrace right by the Itchen and the staff will bring fresh water out, they will even you bring you something too! The Old Vine is yet another place with a whole-pack-welcome-vibe, they have a wonderful a la carte menu and blackboard specials, and the goes on.
So, if you’re dreaming of a summer escape where everyone’s welcome, we humbly submit that South Winchester Lodges might just be the place. There are not just one or two places you can all visit together, the city is your oyster. Peaceful, paw-friendly, and packed with adventures just outside your door. Your private lodge welcomes your whole family, muddle paws included and ensures no one gets left behind. Why not check out our availability today?