When you imagine an island break, you might picture yourself on palm-fringed golden sands, reclining on a sun lounger under tropical skies, coconut cocktail in hand.
Although we can’t guarantee the weather, a holiday to the Isle of Wight has many of its own unique charms. Often busy in summer, a visit to the Isle of Wight in the off-season means that you can enjoy the island’s historic attractions, beautiful beaches and rolling countryside in peace, with your canine companion by your side. In fact, our London Canine Critics 2019 did just that – and they had a ball! Read about their island adventures here.
After exploring the island all day long, you and your tufty-pawed pal need a cosy cottage where you can sit, stay and lie down. Whether you’re one man and your dog, or you want to bring the whole pack, here are our favourite cosy dog-friendly cottages on the Isle of Wight.
Alverstone Ponds Willow End Lodge, Sandown
Sleeps: 1 dogs and 2 humans
Why we love it: This charming lodge perches on the banks of a leafy pond, with fishing and morning walkies on site. Hole up on chilly evenings on the snuggly sofas in front of the wood burner or fling open the patio doors to relax in the summer sunshine on the decking.
Why guests love it: "We spent a week in this lovely little cabin by the water. Comfortable and cosy with everything you could possibly need, an excellent bed and the best shower we have ever had in a holiday home! Warm welcome and thoughtful touches made our stay perfect. Easy to travel around the island and lots of walks on the doorstep. Highly recommend a stay here." - Gillian
What’s nearby? The dog-friendly beach and shops of Shanklin are just 4 miles away, and the gardens of Shanklin Chine (4.5 miles) are well worth exploring.
Moonfleet Cottage, Freshwater
Sleeps: 1 dogs and 2 humans
Why we love it: A dainty little cottage overlooking Freshwater Bay, this is the perfect choice for a romantic escape with your four-legged third-wheel in tow. Enjoy evenings gazing out at the stunning view from the garden, before turning in for a cosy night in the bijou interior.
Why guests love it: "We had a wonderful weeks holiday at Moonfleet cottage. It has the most incredible views and is totally relaxing. The cottage itself is beautifully furnished and has everything needed for a relaxing break. We would highly recommend to anyone, and hope to return in the future." - Chris
What’s nearby? Follow the coast path towards the Needles (4 miles), sniff out the dinosaur footprints at Brook Bay (3.5 miles) and explore prehistoric Bouldnor Forest (4 miles).
Kiely Cottage, Shanklin
Sleeps: 2 dogs and 6 humans
Why we love it: Stylishly decorated throughout, this charming pet-friendly cottage offers a serene base not far from Shanklin's fantastic waterfront. Cosy up in the delightful lounge space with your four-pawed pal at your feet, venture down to the seafront for coastal dog walks together or make the most of the lovely local cafes and pubs in town.
Why guests love it: “A clean and delightful cottage. Very pleasantly decorated. Well located for the Shanklin Chine route to the beach and especially good to be in the old town. Lots of interesting shops and eateries but also quite quiet. Beware of the homemade doughnut and slush puppy place. Hard to get your kids past it!!” – Melanie
What’s nearby? Shanklin Beach (1 mile) has no dog restrictions in the winter so your pup can run along the sand to his heart’s content! If you’re visiting in the summer, Yaverland Beach (3.5 miles) welcomes four-legged beach bums all year round.
One Elm Cottage, Roud
Sleeps: 3 dogs and 6 humans
Why we love it: A blend of modern style and character features, this stone cottage is great for a growing family – plus the four-legged family members, of course. The huge garden is perfect for kids and pups to blow off some steam before you all gather around the wood burner in the lounge for a cosy evening in.
Why guests love it: “We loved the peace and quiet of the cottage - no passing traffic in the lane, except for the occasional horse. The garden was perfect for children to play and the dog loved it too.” – Gerry
What’s nearby? Just 300 metres from the front door is the River Yar, offering a waterside dog walk along the River Yar Trail all the way to Niton, 5 miles away, that is certain to set tails wagging!
Upper Dolcoppice Farmhouse, Whitwell
Sleeps: 5 dogs and 9 humans
Why we love it: You can bring the whole pack together at this secluded dog-friendly farmhouse nestled in the heart of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With 33 acres of farmland to explore, your hounds will go barking mad, while two-legged guests will love relaxing in the stylish and spacious interior.
Why guests love it: “Such a spacious cottage in the perfect location. Peaceful yet within a close drive of many local attractions, the garden is huge and completely enclosed to let your dog run free without worry, and lovely dog walks from the cottage.” – Darren
What’s nearby? Sniff out one of the private footpaths that lead from your home-from-home to St Catherine’s Down, around 4 miles away, where you can take in the incredible, rugged coastal views.
Cosy dog-friendly cottages in the Isle of Wight
As well as these pawsome cottages above, you'll find many more tail-waggingly wonderful dog-friendly cottages to choose from across the island in our Isle of Wight collection. Just click the button below to have a browse.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.