We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, Sussex is undeniably the county of dog lovers.
With so many things on offer for you and your dogs to do together in Sussex (find out more here), it’s no surprise that we’re home to some of the country’s best dog-friendly hotels too. But, with so many to choose from, it’s hard to know where to start.
As always, we’re here to lend a helping paw.
Here’s our pick of the very best dog-friendly accommodation. We think you’d be barking mad not to visit.
Dog friendly packages at the Goodwood Hotel
For human and hound alike, it doesn’t get much better than the Goodwood Estate.
World-famous for its impressive events including the Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival, this dog-friendly Estate goes all out to pamper its four-legged guests. They’ve even added a new dog event to their prestigious calendar for this year; Goodwoof.
Events aside, the Goodwood Estate is home to the four-star Goodwood Hotel, which – you guessed it – welcomes dogs. In fact, they’ve even created their own VIP dog stay package.
Costing from £310 per room (based on 2 people sharing plus a dog) the package includes an overnight stay in one of the dog friendly Goodwood Hotel rooms with use of a VIP luxury dog crate and bed containing butcher’s dog treats, toys and dog water bottle, dog bow-tie, walking maps, dinner at the Goodwood Bar & Grill, breakfast and dog playdates which can be arranged on request.
For those who want to go all-out for their pampered pooch, VIP add-ons include Doga (yoga with your dog) with a qualified Doga instructor, pet behaviour therapy sessions and golf lessons with a pro, where dogs are of course welcome too.
Dog friendly hotels in the South Downs
Nestled in the heart of the South Downs National Park, your dog couldn’t ask for a better location to spend their holiday than the historic market town of Midhurst. And you’ll be pretty impressed too.
With miles of spectacular countryside walks on offer from its front door, The Spread Eagle Hotel will get the tails wagging. As if that’s not enough, they even offer a Muddy Paws package for four-legged visitors too.
Costing from £329 the package includes overnight accommodation with a full English breakfast and three-course dinner, a Spread Eagle Doggie Welcome Kit with a cosy dog bed and bowl, a ‘Ruff and Tumble’ drying coat to take home and full use of the spa facilities and swimming pool (for the humans).
Dogs don’t miss out on the pamper opportunities however, as they can also book a wash and blow dry with a local International Certified Master Groomer.
Shooting in the South Downs National Park
Just across the road from the Spread Eagle Hotel is Midhurst’s Swan Inn, another proudly dog-friendly hotel.
Benefitting from all the perks of being in central Midhurst and the heart of the South Downs National Park, the Swan Inn combines rustic charm with dog-friendly comfortable rooms.
Recently featured on Channel 4’s Four in a Bed, the Swan Inn offers everything you need if your four-legged friend is joining you on a shoot – for which the South Downs National Park is famous for. With in-room gun cabinets and gun cleaning services on offer, you’ll be able to take the hassle out of your sporting pursuits, and maximise your time enjoying the most of the great outdoors.
Back inside the Swan Inn – which dates back to the late 1400’s – you’ll have the choice between rustic rooms with low ceilings and creaky floorboards, to rooms with tall ceilings and four poster beds. However you and your dog like to holiday, you can have it all at the Swan Inn.
Petworth is just paw-fect for dogs
Recently named the best in county in the 2022 National Pub & Bar Awards, the Angel Inn in Petworth offers everything your dog may need on a countryside getaway.
Relax and unwind with your four-legged friend in one of the dog friendly, recently renovated guest bedrooms or two self-catered properties just a step away from the Inn. Enjoy a beautiful walk through the nearby Shimmings Valley or explore the historic gardens of Petworth House and Park, both of which offer miles of spectacular walks for you and your dog.
With dog beds and delicious meals on offer using locally sourced high-quality ingredients, there’s not much more either of you could ask for. We think the Angel Inn is just paw-fect.
Luxury vineyards lodges for dogs
While strictly not a hotel, we couldn’t miss the great dog-friendly accommodation on offer at Tinwood Estate off our list.
The Tinwood Estate vineyard, near Goodwood and the historic city of Chichester, has a well-deserved reputation for producing the very finest English sparkling wines. With three luxury vineyard lodges offering incredible views over the vines – not to mention some of the most picturesque sunsets in the area – this is the perfect setting for a private and tranquil short break. And your dog’s welcome too of course!
With a vast choice of walks over the family farm and into the National park on offer, many fantastic dog-friendly pubs and restaurants just a short drive from the vineyard, and the opportunity to kick back and relax while exploring the vines, there’s every reason for you and your dog to love every minute at Tinwood. It really is a dog’s life!
Dog friendly breaks on a budget
Last but by no means least, is a great all-round option for those seeking a budget friendly family break that the whole family can enjoy, including the four-legged one.
Again, it’s not a hotel, but we think it caters for every possible need you and your furry friend may have.
At the award-winning Seal Bay Holiday Resort (formerly Bunn Leisure), located in the historic seaside town of Selsey, they know just how much your furry family members mean to you. That’s why they have dog-friendly accommodation, d
og-friendly restaurants, dog beaches and wide-open spaces for them to enjoy.
Whether you love being close to the action, in a woodland glade or enjoying a spectacular sea view, there’s something for everyone. Choose from affordable family holiday homes, cool beach pads, statement luxury lodges and a small selection of stunning houses.
Enjoy ta huge range of family-friendly activities and award-winning entertainment, as well as restaurants and bars Relax poolside, beachside or in the sumptuous spa. The choices go on and on.
Whatever you do, it’s guaranteed there will be a smile on everyones face. Even the dogs!
Main image: Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa, Midhurst