From picture-postcard coastal towns boasting golden beaches to quaint villages tucked away in the rolling countryside, Kent offers plenty for you and your four-legged best friend to explore together. Exciting adventures in the great outdoors make for hungry work, so if you and your pack fancy a bite to eat and a refreshing drink after a long walk, we have found some of the top dog-friendly pubs in Kent that you should check out.
Including cosy country pubs where happy hounds can warm their paws by a crackling fire and beautiful boozers by the seaside with special menus just for those with wagging tails, discover some of the best dog-friendly places to eat in Kent near our pet-friendly cottages.
Best dog-friendly places to eat in Kent after a country walk
Nestled amongst some of Kent’s most beautiful countryside within Goodnestone Park estate - one of Jane Austen’s favourite places - the Fitzwalter Arms is loved by many as one of the best dog-friendly pubs in Kent. Steeped in history and quintessentially British, this 16th-century traditional pub warmly welcomes muddy paws after a blissful walk in the woods. Grab a seat by the roaring fire or let Fido stretch out in the pretty gardens on a warm summer’s day. Doggie treats are always on offer as well as fresh water, along with hearty meals, real ales, and an assortment of board games for the humans.
Where to stay: Gore Cottage | Sleeps 4 dogs and 5 humans
Even the name is dog-friendly at this lovely 500-year-old village pub. The Spotted Dog in Penshurst is a firm favourite with tufty-pawed pals and their owners after walkies within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Quench your thirst with a refreshing pint while Rover laps up a brimming bowl of water and find yourselves a cosy spot in the bar beneath the wonky wooden beams. After a blustery winter ramble, nothing beats a homecooked Sunday lunch with all the trimmings beside a glowing open fire.
Where to stay: The Stables – Frant | Sleeps 1 dog and 6 humans
Situated in the picturesque Kentish village of Hollingbourne on the Pilgrim’s Way, The Dirty Habit scores high on our list of dog-friendly Kent pubs. Following tail-wagging adventures in the surrounding North Downs, weary paws can enjoy a well-earned rest while the humans fill their bellies with good food and a tipple or two. This charming 13th-century pub has been used by pilgrims on their way to Canterbury for centuries, and it is even reputed that King James II stayed here whilst escaping the country to France.
Where to stay: Sunrise Lodge | Sleeps 2 dogs and 6 humans
Best dog-friendly places to eat in Kent after a day on the beach
Widely regarded as one of the UK’s finest gastropubs, having held a Michelin star since 2008, The Sportsman is a great place to relax with your canine chum after a stroll along the sand at Seasalter Beach. This iconic pet-friendly pub in Kent may boast star status, but it’s as down to earth as they come, welcoming those with two legs and four to appreciate its fine coastal views and exceptional food. Lucky diners can choose between three different food menus which all feature the best fresh produce including locally caught seafood from the North Kent coastline: an a la carte, a daily five-course tasting menu, and a longer full tasting menu which needs to be ordered in advance.
Where to stay: Blue Beach House | Sleeps 2 dogs and 4 humans
If you’re able to drag your furry water baby from the foaming surf of Camber Sands, William the Conqueror near Rye Harbour awaits with its warm service and Greek flair. One of the best dog-friendly places to eat in Kent, this wonderful seaside pub not only offers traditional classics like burgers and fish and chips, but it also boasts an array of Mediterranean dishes including delicious homemade moussaka, and a very tasty chicken souvlaki. And your happy hounds aren’t forgotten either, with dog-friendly kebabs available for order at the bar. Dine inside amongst the quirky nautical décor or sit outside in the large outdoor area watching the boats glide by on the river.
Where to stay: Flobea | Sleeps 1 dog and 4 humans
Contented canines who have spent a blissful day scampering across the North or Wye Downs, or bounding along the beach at Folkestone, should make it their mission to get to The Tiger Inn in Stowting. One of our favourite dog-friendly inns in Kent, this atmospheric 17th-century watering hole will make you feel as though you have stepped back in time. There are candles on antique tables, dried hops hanging down from the ceiling, and in winter, crackling log fires for pups to snooze beside. Dogs are welcome to join their humans in the bar for a post-walkie dinner, with lovingly prepared dishes made from locally sourced ingredients from surrounding farms.
Where to stay: Kings Cottage – Sandgate | Sleeps 1 dog and 6 humans
Best dog-friendly places to eat in Kent with multiple dogs
With tasty treats, brimming bowls of water and a rubber chicken to play with, The Bricklayers Arms in Sevenoaks is a brilliant dog-friendly pub in Kent to bring the entire pack. Situated at the end of the picturesque Darent Valley Walk opposite a lake, this is a great place to relax and refuel after adventures in the great outdoors. Dogs are made to feel at home inside and out, and there’s always plenty of pooches for your pups to socialise with. Humans can indulge in a summer cider on the green or a comforting meal in front of the open fire in winter, and there’s always lots of entertainment with regular quiz and music nights.
Where to stay: Winston Churchill Lodge | Sleeps 2 dogs and 4 humans
Surrounded by 150 acres of woodland with a myriad of footpaths to explore, the Rose and Crown is a doggie paradise. Pop in with the pack after sniffing out the biggest sticks in Perry Wood, a designated Local Wildlife Site, and make yourself at home in this picture-postcard 16th-century traditional country pub. On chillier days, pups can stretch out in front of the log fire while the humans tuck into some lovely pub grub and when the sun is shining, there’s a brilliant beer garden with tables set amidst the trees - in summer, they often throw beer festivals here with a hog roast, real ales and live music.
Where to stay: Mermaid's Cave | Sleeps 2 dogs and 4 humans
For those with a rather large four-legged family, the Grove Ferry Inn near Canterbury is a great spot for a bite to eat. This spacious country pub enjoys a tranquil riverside setting and serves food all day, making it a pawfect pit-stop no matter what time you head out for your walkies. After long rambles along the river, you can treat your fluffy pal to a refreshing dog beer and some tail-wagging treats, while you peruse the menu of locally sourced, fresh, seasonal food.
Where to stay: Sunset Beach House | Sleeps 2 dogs and 4 humans
Best dog-friendly places to eat in Kent which cater to families
Rexie, The Hawkenbury’s resident Alaskan Malamute loves to make happy hounds and their owners feel welcome at her cheerful pub in Tonbridge. Fresh bowls of water and biscuits are always available both inside the historic country inn, and outside in the large beer garden. If you fancy a walk to burn off the calories from your lunch, Rexie’s friendly owners can recommend some great local trails. Don’t forget to pop back afterwards for a swift pint and something to drink for your pup – there’s a covered seating area outside which is ideal for leaving muddy boots or drying off with wet dogs. And for the kids, there’s play equipment in the garden along with a great children’s menu.
Where to stay: Little Barn | Sleeps 1 dog and 8 humans
Both dog friendly and family friendly, The Three Mariners in Oare is a traditional Kent pub which draws diners from far and wide, having made a few waves in the foodie world. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by Poppy, the landlord’s adorable rescue dog who loves soliciting belly rubs from visitors and sharing her toys with other pups. A large grassy beer garden overlooking the river is the perfect spot for an off-the-lead runaround and there’s a children’s play area too, so the grown-ups can sit back with a Shepherd Neame ale and some mouth-watering food while the rest of the pack are kept entertained.
Where to stay: Anchor Light Cottage | Sleeps 3 dogs and 6 humans
Give your four-legged best friend the VIP treatment at the Black Horse in Densole. This historic pub not only offers a great selection of food and drink for humans of all ages, but also provides a menu just for doggie diners! Plenty of water and lots of cuddles from the staff make the experience even more special, and afterwards, they can burn off their dinner and make some new furry friends in the fenced area outside – what more could a pampered pup want?
Where to stay: Greycot | Sleeps 1 dog and 5 humans
Best dog-friendly places to eat in Kent for one man and his dog
An ancient riverside tavern, The Crispin Inn is a great place to spend some quality time with your canine bestie. Either relax in the bar or sit outside in the sunshine together, watching the boats bob on the river. If you’re feeling peckish, you’ll find traditional pub classics as well as a special Caribbean menu featuring the likes of curried goat, jerk chicken and oxtail stew. On a warm, summery day, you’ll almost feel like you’ve been transported somewhere tropical!
Where to stay: Gore Cottage | Sleeps 4 dogs and 5 humans
An old-school 18th-century village pub in the heart of the countryside, West End Tavern is certainly one of the most dog-friendly places in Kent. The smell of their Sunday roast alone is enough to draw dogs in from near and far. While you dig into bowls of fresh veg, crispy roasties and cover your chosen meat with gravy from the jug, Rover can relax at your feet as dogs are welcome on leads both inside and out. The friendly staff are more than happy to dole out cuddles to those with waggy tails, and they’ll even offer them a bowl of water and some yummy treats.
Where to stay: Lidwells Coach House | Sleeps 1 dog and 4 humans
Reputedly the oldest and smallest pub in Tunbridge Wells, the Grove Tavern is a cosy boozer with bar staff who are always very excited to welcome those with four paws. Dating back to the mid-17th century, this friendly local features four cask ales as well as a range of lagers, ciders, wines, spirits and soft drinks. Although they don’t serve food for humans, canine visitors won’t be disappointed as special dog biscuits and a water bowl are provided. So, while Fido tucks into his treats and catches up with furry friends, you can enjoy a game of pool or darts with the locals.
Where to stay: The Prince Regent | Sleeps 2 dogs and 2 humans
Dog-friendly places to stay in Kent
Now you’ve discovered some of the best dog-friendly pubs in Kent, it’s time to decide where you and Fido will stay while you’re visiting. Our dog-friendly cottages in Kent offer a home from home for you and your furry family members, with an exciting array of tail-wagging features, such as enclosed gardens, cosy wood burners and welcome packs filled with tasty dog treats. Just click the button below to browse our full collection.
For more paw-friendly things to do, including attractions, walks and beaches, check out our ultimate dog-friendly guide to Kent. Or discover some of the most dog-friendly pubs and places to eat across the entire UK.
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.