Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United Kingdom. Undoubtedly, this is a truly beautiful city with a rich history. The city is full of amazing attractions such as landmarks, museums and natural sites. But the main reason why you should visit Edinburgh is definitely its atmosphere. It's not just the spirit of the Middle Ages. It's also the feeling of freedom you get from Edinburgh's nightlife by visiting its pubs, restaurants or clubs. Edinburgh is a city that means something different for every visitor. Surely, a trip to Scotland will be an unforgettable experience for travelers with dogs.
Go sightseeing in Edinburgh with your dog
See Edinburgh Castle with your pet
Edinburgh Castle is a great place to start looking around the city. The first mention of the building, which was the residence of Scottish monks, dates back to the 11-12 centuries. The history of the castle is extensive. The building has survived many wars, sieges, destruction and renovations. And during the Second World War, the castle was a prison for prisoners of war. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed inside the castle, unless you come with an assistance dog. But you can go up and walk around the castle grounds to get a closer look or to admire the beautiful views of the city from above.
Take your dog for a walk to Holyrood Castle
Another important site in Edinburgh is the official residence of Her Majesty the Queen, Holyrood Castle. Like Edinburgh Palace, the castle is of great importance to Scotland, so there are exhibitions inside that introduce visitors to the Scottish history. Also, the building sometimes hosts official events with the participation of the Queen and her family. It is forbidden to visit the castle with a dog, but the building itself is an architectural monument that every tourist should see. Your pet won’t mind taking a long walk to the castle building.
Visit St Giles’ Cathedral with your dog
A trip to Edinburgh is a great joy for architecture lovers, because there are a lot of unique old buildings in the city. St Giles’ Cathedral is one of them. You will be amazed at its beauty and the elegance of details. The cathedral is a major center for the Scottish Presbyterian Church, and is where new knights and ladies are ordained. The building has been destroyed and restored more than once, but fortunately, today we can admire its grandeur. It is also dog-friendly place, so you can go inside and see the charming interiors of the building.
Walk along the Portobello beach coast with your pet
If you have some time, head to the Edinburgh suburbs and take a walk along the North Sea promenade. It is especially beautiful here in the evenings, when the lights are lit on in lovely restaurants near the coast. If you go a little further, you can see the famous royal yacht "Britannia", which is moored at the pier. The lane along the coast is definitely worth a visit, because here you can discover a completely different side of Edinburgh. And your pet will be happy to run and splash in the water of the North Sea, too.
Pet-friendly hotels in Edinburgh
Staying at the Balmoral Hotel with a dog
If you are looking for a luxury hotel in Edinburgh, the Balmoral Hotel will be perfect for you! This is a 5-star hotel in the city center, housed in an incredible palace-like building. The hotel provides a variety of amenities for your comfort. There are 3 restaurants, 2 bars, a full-service spa, an indoor pool, a fitness center, a parking lot and several meeting rooms. The service in the Balmoral Hotel is of a high level as well. The hotel allows guests to bring pets, but you must pay an additional fee of 50 pounds per pet, per stay. If you are travelling with a service animal, you don’t need to pay for it.
Dog-friendly Motel One Edinburgh-Royal
Motel One Edinburgh-Royal offers cheaper accommodation in the city center. However, for a good price, you get a comfortable room with great views and lots of important facilities. The motel has multilingual and friendly staff that can help you with the purchase of tickets, and there is a bar inside the motel where you can order breakfast. As for its location, you can quickly reach many popular sights on foot. There is Princes Street, Edinburgh Dungeon, St. Giles’ Cathedral and Real Mary King’s Close within walking distance. In the motel One Edinburgh-Royal, pets are allowed for an extra charge of 5 pounds. For more details on accommodation with a dog, you should contact the motel in advance.
A&O Edinburgh City for you and your dog
A&O is a line of hostels across Europe offering travelers affordable and comfortable accommodation. In A&O Edinburgh City, you will have an opportunity to book a whole room or a bed in a dorm room. Whichever option you choose, you have access to the garden and terrace, and you can use the shared kitchen to prepare your own breakfast. There is also a restaurant with a bar for those guests who do not have time to cook. A&O hostel is a pet-friendly place. You and your dog will feel right at home for an additional fee of 10 pounds per night. There is no charge for service animals.
Dog-friendly restaurants and cafés in Edinburgh
Taste Scottish cuisine in the Cellar Door Restaurant with your dog
When you go to Edinburgh, you should definitely try Scottish food! We advise you to visit the Cellar Door Restaurant to get an unforgettable experience of tasting local cuisine. The menu includes a wide variety of dishes, from gourmet main courses and appetizers to traditional fish and chips. The restaurant also offers many vegetarian options. Choose a nice drink in addition to your main course, and you will have a wonderful dinner in a wonderful place. Moreover, the Cellar Door Restaurant allows dogs, so you can enjoy your evening with your friend!
44-46 George IV Bridge Midlothian, Edinburgh EH1 1EJ Scotland.
Have a meal in the Holyrood 9A with your dog
Looking for some fast food? Then head to a local fast food restaurant, the Holyrood 9A! They serve different grilled dishes, but their burgers are the most popular choice among visitors. Here you can order a burger for every taste, and a glass of Scottish beer, it will perfectly complement it. The Holyrood 9A is also a stylish restaurant with an excellent location close to many tourist attractions. This dog-friendly place is a must in Edinburgh for you and your pet!
9A Holyrood Road Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH8 8AE Scotland.
Have a coffee break at Zebra Coffee with your dog
Zebra Coffee is a cozy café in Edinburgh’s Old Town. It is a nice place to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy some tasty tea or coffee. The café offers delicious desserts and pastries, but you can have a hearty lunch here as well. The staff is very friendly and ready to help with the choice. And this café is suitable for dog owners, because dogs are always welcome here. Zebra Coffee is really popular and sometimes can be crowded, so it’s best to come in the morning when there are not so many tourists in the city center.
16 Bank Street, Edinburgh EH1 2LN Scotland.