From charming parks and picturesque walking trails to cafes and attractions that warmly welcome both humans and dogs, Leicester has established itself as a haven for pet owners. Whether you’re a local looking for new spots to enjoy with your canine friend or a visitor seeking the best pet-friendly experiences, join us as we uncover the tail-wagging delights that Leicester (and the surrounding area) has to offer.
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Dog Friendly Leicester Must Sees
Belvoir Castle
Belvoir Castle has been the seat of the Duke of Rutland for many generations and remains a private family home. The castle and its surrounding estate encompass extensive gardens, woodlands, and open spaces. The interior of the castle contains numerous elegant rooms, each with its own unique design and historical significance.
The castle and its grounds are open to the public during certain times of the year, allowing visitors (including dogs) to explore its rich history, architecture, and the beautiful surrounding landscape. It’s also known for hosting events, weddings, and various activities throughout the year.
Kirby Muxlowe Castle
Kirby Muxlowe Castle is a ruined, fortified manor house in Kirby Muxlowe and is known for being never fully completed. Today, the ruins of Kirby Muxloe Castle stand as a testament to its ambitious beginnings and the tumultuous political climate of the time of building.
Visitors can explore the remaining walls, towers, and layout of the castle, which provide insights into the architectural and historical significance of this unique site.
Great Central Railway
Running from Leicester to Loughborough, the Great Central Railway is the UK’s only double-track heritage railway. It’s also the only place in the worlds where full size steam engines can pass each other on the rails – pretty cool!
It’s dog friendly, but if your dog doesn’t like loud noises or travelling on the train, we’d advise caution.
Easy Street Lanes
Easy Street Lanes is a bowling alley in Leicester, and is dog friendly to boot. There’s also a great arcade to hang in either before or after your game.
Caddyshackers
If you love crazy golf and bars, Caddyshackers is the place to be. It’s Leicesters only 18 hold, 18+ crazy golf bar, serving up cocktails, mocktails, beer and great fun.
Caddyshackers is also home to Leicester’s first VR escape room, and you can also do axe throwing there too.
The Best Dog Friendly Walks in Leicester
Foxton Locks
Foxton Locks in Leicester offers picturesque dog walking opportunities along its canal towpaths and heritage centre. There are various routes available, both long and short, centred around the locks themselves. A leisurely walk allows you to enjoy the historic atmosphere and observe the working barge pathways of the past. The area is family-friendly and provides a charming experience for dog owners and visitors alike.
Everards Meadows
Everards Meadows in Leicester offers a picturesque location for dog walking. Dogs on leads are welcome, and responsible owners are expected to clean up after their pets.
The park spans 70 acres with cycling and walking trails, including waterside paths. It’s adjacent to Fosse Shopping Park and easily accessible via Google Maps.
Consider taking the Kings Lock Walk along the canal and through the nature reserve for a relaxing experience. Ensure your safety by following the park’s guidelines and enjoying the beautiful surroundings with your furry friend.
Wistow
- Wistow Rural Centre & Wistow Maze, Kibworth Road, Leicester. LE8 0QF
Wistow Rural Centre in Leicester offers various dog-friendly walking options:
- Wistow Walk: This cycle and walking route is dog-friendly and passes through the garden room, providing a pleasant experience.
- Wistow Local Walk: A 3-mile circular route around Wistow with an easy difficulty level, starting from the Wistow Rural Centre car park.
- Wistow Rural Centre: A collection of dog-friendly shops and a café, perfect for dog owners while shopping.
Note: dogs aren’t allowed in the maze or activity funyard.
Conkers
- Rawdon Rd, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Swadlincote DE12 6GA
Conkers, located in nearby Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire, offers dog-friendly trails and outdoor activities in the heart of The National Forest.
The site welcomes assistance dogs that are highly trained. While general dogs are not allowed due to the presence of safely homed wildlife, visitors can explore dog-friendly trails like the Conkers Circuit, a nice and easy flat route suitable for dog walking. The area provides a scenic setting with various features for walkers, cyclists, and even horse riders. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks while appreciating the natural beauty of the surroundings.
For dog owners looking for a great place to walk their dogs, Conkers is a fantastic option in Leicestershire.
Melton Country Park
- Wymondham Way, Melton Mowbray LE13 1HP
Melton Country Park is a scenic country park located in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, England. It offers a delightful environment for dog walking and outdoor activities. The park features beautiful wetlands, streams, and three lakes with abundant wildlife, providing a pleasant space for dogs and their owners to enjoy.
There are varying walking routes and also offers open green spaces, footpaths, trails, and even a dog agility area. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the park while allowing their dogs to roam off-lead in designated areas. It’s a popular destination for dog owners seeking a peaceful and scenic location for dog walks in the Leicester area.
Dog-friendly Cafés and Restaurants in Leicester
Please note that specific policies may change, so it’s a good idea to confirm dog-friendly status directly with the place you wish to visit before visiting.
Leicester Coffee House
- 110 Granby Street, Leicester LE1 1DL
Leicester Coffee House is a small independent coffee shop and roastery based in Leicester city centre. They specialize in sourcing specialty coffee. The coffee shop is actively involved in supporting learning and skills development.
St Martin’s Coffee Shop
- Cank St, Leicester LE1 5DG
St Martin’s Coffee Shop is located in the independent corner of Leicester City’s St Martin’s Square. They strive to provide the best coffee experience to their guests in a bustling and spacious environment.
The Rutland & Derby
- 21 Millstone Ln, Leicester LE1 5JN
The Rutland & Derby is an acclaimed pub, kitchen, and garden located in Leicester City Centre. This multi-award-winning establishment offers craft ales, ciders, and locally sourced food. Well behaved dogs are welcome in their rear courtyard & garden terrace.
Grays Coffee Shop & Kitchen (LCB Depot)
- 31 Rutland St, Leicester LE1 1RE
Grays Coffee Shop & Kitchen, located within Leicester Creative Business Depot (LCB Depot), offers fresh, seasonal food and award-winning coffee. Situated in Leicester’s cultural quarter, it has been serving the community since 2013.
Esquires Coffee
- The Circle, 5 New Walk, Leicester LE1 6RU
- The Wullcomb, 83 Vaughan Wy, Leicester LE1 4SG
Esquires Coffee has two locations in Leicester. One is situated at The Circle, 5 New Walk, and the other is located at The Wullcumb, 83 Vaughan Way. They offer coffee, food, and a cosy atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
Queen of Bradgate
- 93 High St, Leicester LE1 4JB
The Queen of Bradgate is a prominent gastropub located at 93-97 High Street, Leicester. It offers a variety of experiences, including dining, drinking, and entertainment. It has a rich history, serves a diverse drinks menu, and offers a food menu. The Queen of Bradgate is proudly dog friendly and dogs are provided with a fresh drink while you enjoy yours!
Mauritzio’s
- 42 Belvoir St, Leicester LE1 6QL
Maurizio’s is an Italian pizza and pasta restaurant located in Leicester, and proudly dog friendly.
It is a family-run establishment situated on Belvoir Street, formerly the site of Youngs Camera Shop and Haycock & Tailbar.
Orso
- 4 Market Pl, Leicester LE1 5GF
Orso Leicester is a cozy coffee shop and cafe located in the heart of Leicester, United Kingdom. They proudly serve Bamboo Coffee Roasters coffee and offer a variety of coffees, flavoured teas, hot chocolate, fresh food, and cakes.
Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM, it’s a popular spot for coffee enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed atmosphere.
Bread & Honey
- 15 King St, Leicester LE1 6RN
Bread & Honey is an independent cafe located on King Street in Leicester. They offer a variety of items including coffee, smoothies, soups, salads, sandwiches, and cakes.
La Forêt Café
- 11 King St, Leicester, Leicester LE1 6RN
La Forêt Café is a charming place, offering a fusion of patisserie classics inspired by various cuisines from around the world. The café serves homemade food, including cakes, and is known for its Mediterranean and Tunisian-inspired dishes. There are healthy superfoods and vegan options, and all of the food is halal.
It is beautifully decorated and features pictures from Tunisia and Bosnia to reflect the owner’s background.
Bryter Moon Deli
- Unit 1, Silver Arcade, Leicester, LE1 5FA
Bryter Moon Deli is a charming delicatessen situated in The Historic Silver Arcade in Leicester City Centre. They offer a variety of fantastic goodies for both takeaway and eating in. Their menu includes coffee, tea, local craft beers, and delicious food. The deli is known for being vegan-friendly and serves a range of delectable options.
Prana Café
- 10 Horsefair Street, Leicester, LE1 5BN
Prana Café is a 100% vegan cafe located in Leicester city centre. The cafe offers a range of plant-based whole foods in an elegant setting with a spectacular high ornate ceiling. It is known for its luxury plant-based coffee house ambiance, offering nutritious organic wholefoods. Prana Café frequently hosts live music events, providing an enjoyable dining experience.
James’ Bistro
- 5 East Bond Street, Leicester LE1 4SX
James’ Bistro is an accessible, family-friendly venue with freshly prepared comfort food and cocktails, and includes vegan & gluten-free options on their menu.
Saints of Mokha
- 51-53 Belvoir Street, Leicester, LE1 6SL
Saints of Mokha is a specialty coffee house and roastery located in Leicester, United Kingdom. Established in 2016, it is a family-run business that is passionate about sourcing and serving high-quality coffee.
Dog-friendly Pubs and Bars in Leicester
The Bradgate
- 37 Main St, Newtown Linford, Leicester LE6 0AE
The Bradgate is a dog friendly country pub located in Newtown Linford, Leicestershire, serving classic pub food and located near Bradgate Park, a historic 830-acre Medieval Deer Park teeming with wildlife and rich history. It offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and it’s also associated with The Bradgate Park & Swithland Wood Charity.
The Old Horse
- 198 London Rd, Leicester LE2 1NE
The Old Horse is a traditional 19th-century coaching inn located in Leicester, situated near the local railway station. It serves as a spacious pub and restaurant, offering pub food at reasonable prices and a variety of beers – it’s proud to be a real ale pub that supports local microbreweries, so there’s lots of gems of beers to try!
It is dog friendly, and Dr Who fans will be happy to find a TARDIS in the garden!
The Exchange Bar
- 50 Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1RD
The Exchange Bar in Leicester is a popular bar located in the heart of the city’s Cultural Quarter. Situated opposite the Curve Theatre, it offers a relaxed and cosy atmosphere.
Firebug
- 1 Millstone Lane, Leicester, LE1 5JN
Firebug is a well-known bar located in Leicester. Opened in 2004, Firebug has become an integral part of Leicester’s nightlife – it has a vibrant atmosphere and holds many events – including club nights, live music and comedy shows. It is known for serving fresh homemade food daily, including options for vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free diets.
The Tree
- 99 High Street, Leicester, LE1 4JB
The Tree is a crafty pub located in the heart of Leicester City centre. It is home to a glorious beer garden and serves freshly made food, a selection of seriously tasty beers and a delicious cocktail menu.
Dogs are welcome in the bar area, but also in the beer garden.
The Parcel Yard
- 48a London Road, Leicester, LE2 0QB
The Parcel Yard in Leicester is a pub located next to Leicester Train Station. It draws inspiration from its original purpose as a sorting office and parcel handling facility. The pub is operated by Steamin’ Billy and is known for its historic railway connections. With a history dating back to its time as a sorting office, the pub has been an integral part of the local scene.
Sommar
- 6 Hotel St, Leicester, LE1 5AW
Sommar Leicester is a craft beer bar located in Leicester City Centre, known for offering craft beer, cocktails, coffee, live comedy, live music, and quiz nights. The bar features a variety of craft beers on tap, including those from Sommar Brewing Co and guest breweries.
The Two Tailed Lion
- 22 Millstone Lane, Leicester LE1 5JN
The Two-Tailed Lion is a traditional English pub in the historic Greyfriars area of Leicester. Situated in a listed building, this establishment combines traditional charm with modernist flair. It is known for its selection of beers and cosy ambiance. The Two-Tailed Lion also functions as a bottle shop.
Queen of Bradgate
- 93 High Street, Leicester LE1 4JB
The Queen of Bradgate is a pub known for its gastropub experience, offering drinks, food menus, and hosting live music events. The pub is a prominent fixture in Leicester’s craft beer scene, attracting visitors for its contemporary charm and family-friendly atmosphere.
The Globe
- 43 Silver Street, Leicester, LE1 5EU
The Globe in Leicester is one of the oldest pubs in the city, dating back to 1720. It’s a renowned pub and restaurant that serves high-quality food and drinks. With a history of serving fine ales and food since its inception and its rich history and quality offerings make it a notable presence in Leicester’s hospitality scene.
The Distillery
- 27 Market Street, Leicester, LE1 6DP
The Distillery Leicester is a craft pub located serving food and offering a modern and exciting experience for visitors. While The Distillery might not be the oldest pub in Leicester, it stands out as a cool and modern destination, offering a variety of experiences, including food, drinks, and an enjoyable time.
Dog Friendly Shops in Leicester
Highcross Shopping Centre
- 5 Shires Lane, Leicester, LE1 4AN
Highcross Leicester is a prominent shopping center located in Leicester, England. Originally named The Shires, it was established in 1991 to complement the Haymarket Shopping Centre. It is home to over 140 shops and services, and is proudly dog friendly.
Not all shops in the shopping centre are dog friendly, so make sure to respect the individual dog policies – it’s worth looking for the dog friendly sticker in their windows, or check out the list of dog friendly shops at Highcross Shopping Centre.
It’ll leave you wishing all shopping malls were as dog friendly!
Dog-friendly Accommodation in Leicester: Where to Stay
Travelodge
- Travelodge Leicester Central – Vaughan Wy, Leicester LE1 4NN
- Travelodge Leicester City Centre, The Haymarket Centre, Leicester LE1 3PH
- Travelodge Leicester Markfield, Little Shaw Ln, Markfield LE67 9PP
- Travelodge Leicester Hinckley Road, Hinckley Rd, Kirby Muxloe, Leicester LE3 3PG
We’re big fans of Travelodge, and there’s multiple dog friendly Travelodges in the Leicester area.
Stapleford Park
- Stapleford Park Hotel, Stapleford Rd, Stapleford, Melton Mowbray LE14 2EF
Stapleford Park is an elegant country house and spa hotel situated near Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire, England. This Grade I listed country house is set within 500 acres of stunning parkland and offers understated luxury to its guests. The estate provides a range of leisure activities including country pursuits, shooting, riding, and falconry. The park’s scenic surroundings, along with its spa, fine dining, and various leisure facilities, make it a notable destination for relaxation and outdoor activities. Stapleford Park was originally a country house and has now been repurposed as a luxury hotel, offering visitors a blend of history and modern comfort.
The hotel welcomes well behaved dogs, which are allowed in all of their public rooms (on a lead), but not their dining rooms. Their pet friendly rooms start at £250, with a £20 per night, per dog, fee for an overnight stay.
Sketchley Grange
- Sketchley Grange Hotel & Spa, Sketchley Ln, Burbage, Hinckley LE10 3HU
Sketchley Grange Hotel & Spa is an elegant country house hotel located in the peaceful market town of Hinckley, near the borders of East and West Midlands. The hotel offers various amenities including spa breaks, event hosting, and relaxation getaways. It has 95 en-suite rooms, a restaurant, and a spa where guests can enjoy deep-tissue massages.
They have a selection of dog friendly rooms – make sure to contact the hotel directly to book or check availability. There is a charge of £20 per dog, per night, and a maximum of 2 pets allowed per room. Guests must clean up after their dogs, and take full responsibility for them. Dogs are not allowed in the restaurant unless a guide dog.
Sysonby Knoll Hotel, Melton Mowbray
- Best Western Sysonby Knoll Hotel, Asfordby Rd, Melton Mowbray LE13 0HP
Sysonby Knoll Hotel is located in Melton Mowbray, Leicester. It offers high-quality accommodation and dining experiences. The hotel features beautiful landscaped gardens and is situated next to the River Eye.
Sysonby Knoll Hotel is proudly pet friendly, and is home to Tilley, the resident miniature dachshund. Dogs are charged at £10 per night, and well behaved dogs are welcome in all areas of the hotel, apart from the restaurant.
The Three Swans, Market Harborough
- The Three Swans Hotel, 21 High St, Market Harborough LE16 7NJ
The Three Swans Hotel & Restaurant, situated in the historic town of Market Harborough, Leicestershire, is a 16th-century coaching inn with a rich history of welcoming guests, travellers, and diners. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, two restaurants, and a fully-stocked bar providing a variety of beverages.
Dogs are welcome to visit The Three Swans, as long as their house rules are adhered to. They are welcome in all areas, apart from the restaurant. If staying, there is a charge of £10 per dog, per night.