Dog Friendly Accommodation St Andrews

Find The Perfect Stay For You & Your Best Friend

Browse dog friendly accommodation in St Andrews for family holidays, coastal escapes and weekends away with your dog. Book direct for the best available rates and help from local experts. Self catering properties incuding town-centre flats near cafés and beaches to cottages with enclosed gardens on the outskirts, find a property that suits both you and your pet.

Rated 4.7/5 on Google
Aaron Levy
Aaron Levy
Absolutely love these guys. The flat (1a gibson place) was clean, easy to get to and an amazing location. Well appointed with amazing local toiletries (which you can buy just up the road) and very easy/clear checkout instructions. We even locked ourselves out and they responded near instantly. Can't recommend them enough!
Steven Johnston
Steven Johnston
Communication was great leading up to our stay, Achanair cottage was excellent, clean, and everything you need for a 5 night stay. The location is perfect a 5 minute walk to South Street and the center of town with all its restaurants and pubs, altogether the perfect place to stay when in St Andrews.
Carolyn Keenan
Carolyn Keenan
My husband, daughter and I recently stayed at Square Green (No 14). This is a bright, spacious apartment overlooking the bowling green, exactly as depicted in the photographs. Spotless throughout, with well-equipped kitchen and comfortable beds and having the private parking space is a bonus. The location is excellent - a 10 minute walk up to the town centre. We would definitely plan to stay here next time we are in St Andrews.

Browse dog-friendly accommodation in St Andrews

Handpicked self catering properties ideal for pets

Each pet friendly property has its own setting and personality. You can stay within walking distance of the town and coast, find somewhere with a garden or furnished deck, or head beyond St Andrews for more open space and quieter surroundings.

Browse dog friendly cottages St Andrews

Beautiful cottages perfect for dogs

Choose from dog friendly holiday cottages in and around St Andrews. Selected cottage and country stays include private patios, gardens, wood burners and parking close to the property, with St Andrews still within easy reach.

Browse dog friendly lodges near St Andrews

Handpicked self catering lodges for every kind of stay

Selected dog-friendly self catering lodges include furnished decks or patios, garden furniture and parking beside the accommodation. Some also give you access to resort facilities, with options including play areas, a spa, gym and steam room.

Features of our dog-friendly stays

What our properties include

 

Our dog-friendly stays give you room to settle in together, whether you are travelling as a couple, family or small group. Choose from properties with enclosed gardens, patios, private decking, outdoor seating and parking, with each listing showing the layout, pet rules and outdoor arrangements before you book.

Some stays suit quiet breaks near the countryside, while others put you closer to beaches, parks and walking routes around St Andrews. Compare bedrooms, guest numbers, dog allowances, enclosed outdoor space and nearby walks to find the right base for everyone.

Outdoor space and practical touches for dogs

From garden paths and grassy lawns to nearby beaches and countryside trails, there will be plenty of new scents for your dog to investigate. Selected stays include private gardens, patios, furnished decking and balconies, with enclosed outdoor space available at some properties. Private entrances, parking close to the door, utility areas and washing facilities also help after sandy beaches or muddy walks.

Easier arrivals with a dog in tow

A parking space close to the door makes unloading leads, beds, food and towels much easier. Many of the lodges, cottages and larger homes include private parking, with some offering space for more than one vehicle. You will also find properties with private entrances, level access, utility rooms and washing facilities, all useful after muddy countryside walks, sandy paws or a day of Scottish weather.

Room for everyone to relax together

From cosy apartments to larger family homes and dog friendly cottage settings, our properties give everyone enough room to settle into the day at their own pace. There is space for the dog bed without it being underfoot, a table for shared meals and, in selected properties, a garden or patio where children and dogs can burn off some energy. After a long walk, you can towel off muddy paws by the door, let the dog curl up nearby and enjoy the evening without everyone being crowded into one room. Flexible bedrooms, multiple bathrooms and generous living areas also make longer stays and group trips much easier.

Help to plan your stay

Where to walk your dog in St Andrews

St Andrews is a beautiful town with plenty of lovely spots to walk your dog. Here are some great places where you and your pup can enjoy a stroll:

West Sands Beach

This is one of the most popular spots in St Andrews. It’s a vast, open sandy beach that’s perfect for dogs to run around and enjoy the sea. Dogs are allowed on the beach, and it’s a great place for long walks, especially at low tide when there’s more space. Just be mindful of the tide times, as the water can come in quickly.

The Lade Braes Walk

This scenic trail follows the Lade Braes, a stream that runs through St Andrews. It’s a peaceful walk through woodlands and meadows, offering a more tranquil setting away from the beach. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll, and many locals take their dogs here.

St Andrews Botanic Garden

The Botanic Garden is a lovely spot for a dog walk, especially if your dog enjoys a more controlled environment. While dogs aren’t allowed in the main garden areas, there are walking paths around the periphery of the garden that provide a pleasant experience. You’ll pass some gorgeous flora and peaceful settings.

The Kinnesburn Path

For those looking for a more natural environment, the Kinnesburn Path is a lovely walk along the Kinnesburn stream. It’s a relatively short walk through a wooded area, and dogs tend to enjoy it due to the variety of sights, smells, and the sound of running water.

St Andrews Common

This is a large, open area of grassland and part of a park that’s perfect for dogs who enjoy some space to run. It’s a less busy option than the beach, but still provides a lot of freedom for your dog to roam around.

The Fife Coastal Path

If you want a longer adventure with your dog, the Fife Coastal Path stretches all the way from Kincardine to Tayport, and parts of it go through St Andrews. The coastal path offers beautiful views of the sea and surrounding countryside. It’s ideal for dogs who enjoy longer walks and exploring new places.

Hollow Park

Located slightly to the north of St Andrews, Hollow Park is a smaller, less busy park that offers good walking paths and open spaces for dogs. It’s a quieter option if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.

When walking your dog in St Andrews, always be mindful of local guidelines—especially regarding leash laws, cleanliness, and other dogs. But overall, the town and surrounding area are very dog-friendly, so you should have plenty of opportunities to enjoy walks together!

Which restaurants can you take your dog into?

Brewdog

BrewDog St Andrews is one of the popular locations of the well-known craft beer brand, and it’s definitely a dog-friendly spot! Located in the heart of St Andrews, BrewDog offers a great environment for both beer lovers and their furry companions.

The saint

The Saint in St Andrews is a dog-friendly venue that offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere for both you and your pup. With indoor and outdoor seating areas where dogs are welcome, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy food and drinks after a walk around the town. The staff are friendly and accommodating, often providing water bowls and sometimes dog treats.

Mitchells Deli

Mitchell’s Deli is a popular destination in St Andrews for a delicious breakfast, lunch, or afternoon treat. Offering a dog-friendly seating area, it’s the ideal spot for you, your family, and your furry friend to enjoy homemade dishes, artisanal sandwiches, and freshly baked goodies.

Cafe In The Square

The Café in the Square in St Andrews is a charming, dog-friendly café that offers a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors. Located in the heart of the town, it has a lovely outdoor seating area where dogs are welcome to join their owners while they enjoy a variety of delicious homemade dishes, freshly brewed coffee, and tempting cakes. The friendly staff are always happy to accommodate pets, offering water bowls for your dog to stay refreshed. With its relaxed vibe and central location, The Café in the Square is a perfect stop for dog owners looking to enjoy a meal or drink with their furry companion.

The inn at Kingsbarns: The Inn at Kingsbarns, located in the charming village of Kingsbarns just a short drive from St Andrews, is a delightful, dog-friendly pub that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for both you and your furry companion. With a cozy, relaxed setting, dogs are welcome in the bar area and outdoor seating, where they can join you while you enjoy hearty Scottish dishes, local ales, and a great selection of drinks. 

The Bank

The Bank in Anstruther is a cozy, dog-friendly pub that offers a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors. Located in the heart of the picturesque fishing village, dogs are welcome in the bar area and on the outdoor terrace, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a drink or a meal with your furry friend by your side.

The Ship Inn

The Ship Inn in Elie is a popular, dog-friendly pub offering a warm and inviting atmosphere with stunning views of the Firth of Forth. Dogs are welcome both in the bar area and on the outdoor terrace, where you can relax with your pup while enjoying a drink or a delicious meal.

Best things to do in St Andrews with your dog

St Andrews, often referred to as the “Home of Golf,” offers a mix of historic sites, cultural attractions, scenic beauty, and world-class golf. Whether you’re a golfer, a history enthusiast, or just visiting for the charm of the town, there’s something for everyone. Here are the best things to do in St Andrews:

  • Swilcan Bridge: The famous Swilcan Bridge on the 18th hole of the Old Course at the Home of Golf. The bridge was originally built over 700 years ago so shepherds could move their flock across the Swilcan Burn which meanders through what is now the 1st and 18th fairways. Today the Swilcan Bridge, with the ‘Auld Grey Toun’ providing the most beautiful of backdrops, is one of the most iconic settings in golf. So much more than a little stone crossing, the Swilcan Bridge is the history of the game, it’s the magic moments, it’s felt the footsteps of the true greats.
  • St Andrews Links: Recognised the world over as the Home of Golf, St Andrews Links has borne witness to over 600 years of golfing history. The Links encompasses a collection of seven courses, including the legendary Old Course, which has shaped the history and traditions of golf for centuries. It is a dream destination for golfers from around the world.
  • Craigtoun Country Park: Craigtoun Park is a 47 acre park only 2 miles from St Andrews. The park itself is open 24/7 and it’s a great day out for the whole family. During the season try the Rio Grande Railway, Crazy Golf, Putting and Puffin’ Billy – the road train that takes you round the whole park. There are rowing boats and pedalos, bouncy castles and pedal cars for the little ones and go-karts for the not-so-little ones.
  • West Sands Beach: Famous for its appearance in the film Chariots of Fire, this expansive beach is perfect for a walk, a run, or simply enjoying the fresh sea air. There are some great food options, including The Dook cafe. Head to Blownaway for paddle boarding, kite surfing, land yachting and other activities. 
  • St Andrews Cathedral: Once Scotland’s largest cathedral, its dramatic ruins are a reminder of its former grandeur and its importance in medieval religious life.
  • St Andrews Castle: Perched on cliffs is the ruins of the castle of the Archbishops of St Andrews, dating in part from the 13th century. On a headland to the north of St Andrews stand the ruins of the city’s castle, the main residence of the bishops and archbishops of St Andrews and the focal point of the church in medieval Scotland
  • St Andrews Aquarium: Step through our doors and be transported into an underwater world of adventure and discovery. Come face to face with some of the most beautiful, fascinating and dangerous creatures of the watery worlds. From British sharks to spiders, lobsters to lionfish, poison dart frogs to piranhas, loveable seals… and not to forget our fabulous meerkats
  • St Andrews Botanic Garden: St Andrews Botanic Garden is a living research and conservation experiment where the team explore the ways ecology and evolution unfold in the plant kingdom – right at the heart of historic St Andrews. They”re home to some of the most dynamic plants and habitats, from both Fife and around the world.
  • University of St Andrews: Founded in 1413, it’s Scotland’s oldest university. Visit sites like St Salvator’s Quad, the King’s College Chapel, and the university’s Museum to learn about its history and famous alumni.
  • Cambo Gardens: Walled Garden and more near Kingsbarns in Fife. Reinstated Georgian Stables housing Visitor Centre, cafe, crafts and unique plants for sale. Learning hub for events and activities. Woodland walks to the award winning beach. Nature play area for little ones. Dog friendly everywhere. Creative vegetarian cooking in the cafe.
  • Kingsbarns Distillery & Visitor Centre: The whisky distillery sits in a charming 18th century converted farm steading and features whisky distillery tours, tastings, a shop and cafe with an outdoor seating area. The Visitor Centre is open 7 days a week 10am – 5pm, with tours running daily.
 

Why Book Direct With Short Stay St Andrews?

Best rates guaranteed!
Friendly, local support before, during, and after your stay
Insider tips on restaurants, walks, and activities you won’t find in a guidebook

You’re not searching through thousands of mixed listings and hoping a property is suitable for dogs. Every stay here has already been selected by our local team, with clear information on pet rules, outdoor space, parking and nearby walks. We know which properties have enclosed gardens, which are close to beaches or countryside routes, and which layouts work best when you are travelling with a dog. Book direct for clear pricing, straightforward communication and help from people who know the properties and the area, not a generic support team.

Best rates when you book direct

Book your pet friendly property direct with Short Stay St Andrews to get the best rates available. Our team will help you compare options, so you can choose the stay that best fits your plans.

Local support from our St Andrews team

Our local team knows the properties, the surrounding area and where the best walks are. If you are choosing between a cottage just outside of St Andrews, a coastal lodge or an apartment in the centrey, we can help you narrow it down before booking.

Help before and during your stay

You can contact the Short Stay St Andrews team before arrival if you need help with property details, optional extras or arrival planning. During your stay, let us know quickly if something needs attention so we can help while you are here.

How much does it cost to bring a dog?
The charge is £20 for one dog and £30 for two or more dogs.

Selected properties allow two dogs. Check the individual listing or speak to our team to confirm the allowance for your chosen stay.

No. Dogs are not allowed on beds or furniture in most cases.

Selected properties have enclosed or fenced gardens. Others offer patios, decking, balconies or open garden space. The individual property listing will explain the outdoor arrangement.

Yes. West Sands, East Sands and the wider Fife coast provide plenty of options for walks by the sea. Seasonal restrictions can apply to certain sections, so follow local signage during your visit.

Bring your dog’s food, bowls, bedding, lead, waste bags and a towel for wet or sandy paws. A familiar blanket or bed can also help them settle into a new property.

Assistance dogs can stay in pet-friendly properties without the dog charge. Please notify the Short Stay St Andrews team before booking.

Arrival is from 4pm or later, unless advised otherwise. Checkout is 10am. Early check-in or late checkout may be available to add on selected stays, subject to availability.

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