Travelling with pets doesn’t have to mean squeezing them into the back of the car, battling motorway traffic, or hunting for expensive kennels. In the UK, train travel is one of the easiest, most relaxed ways to explore the country with your furry companion. Best of all, dogs and cats can travel on trains for free (two per passenger) and our journey planner automatically checks for the cheapest fares so you can save your pennies for dog treats instead.
So, grab the lead, pack the biscuits, and hop aboard here are some of the best pet-friendly destinations you can reach by train.
St Ives, Cornwall – Beach Walks and Artist Views
Image credit: Brian Aitkenhead | Unsplash
With golden sands, winding cobbled streets, and a thriving arts scene, St Ives is a dream for both humans and hounds. Many of the beaches allow dogs outside peak summer months, and the South West Coast Path offers spectacular cliffside walks. You’ll also find plenty of pet-welcoming cafés, try a cream tea at Porthmeor Beach Café where your dog can sit with you outside, gazing at the waves.
Travel tip: Our journey planner finds the best-value tickets on the long but beautiful ride to Cornwall, checking for split fares so you can spend less on travel and more on fish and chips.
Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn for quieter beaches and cooler weather for your dog.
Keswick, Lake District – Walks, Water, and Woofs
Image credit: Matthew Waring| Unsplash
A gateway to some of the UK’s most stunning scenery, Keswick is perfect for dogs who love a good ramble. You’ll find countless trails around Derwentwater, from gentle lakeside strolls to more challenging fell hikes. Many local guesthouses proudly advertise themselves as dog-friendly, and you can round off your walk with a pub lunch where muddy paws are welcome.
Travel tip: Trains to Penrith, followed by a short bus ride, get you right into the heart of the action, and our journey planner automatically checks for cheaper ticket combinations.
Best time to visit: Year-round, but autumn brings spectacular leaf colours and quieter trails.
Whitby, Yorkshire – Historic Streets and Coastal Strolls
Image credit: Stephen Ingham Unsplash
Home to the famous Abbey, charming harbour views, and plenty of fish and chip shops with outdoor seating, Whitby is a top pick for pet owners. The nearby clifftop paths and sandy bays are ideal for letting your dog stretch their legs, and the Dracula history adds a fun twist for human visitors. Try a stop at Rusty Shears café, where dogs are greeted with water bowls and the humans get top-notch cake.
Travel tip: Our journey planner spots the best routes via Middlesbrough or York, making sure you get the cheapest rail fare possible without the booking hassle.
Best time to visit: Late spring or early autumn for fewer crowds and comfortable walking weather.
Tenby, Wales – Colour, Coast, and Canines
Image credit: Beata Mitrega| Unsplash
This pastel-hued harbour town has dog-friendly beaches, coastal fort ruins, and plenty of outdoor cafés where both you and your dog can relax. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers miles of stunning sea views, and in quieter months, you can often have whole stretches of sand almost to yourself.
Travel tip: Arrive via Swansea and connect to Tenby by train, our journey planner does the legwork to find cheap train tickets, including any split fare savings.
Best time to visit: Spring or September, when beach restrictions for dogs are lifted and the weather is still mild.
Pitlochry, Scotland – Highland Charm for Humans and Hounds
In the heart of the Highlands, Pitlochry is a peaceful escape with riverside walks, forest trails, and cosy inns that welcome pets. The scenery from the train itself is worth the trip alone, passing lochs, mountains, and dense woodland. In autumn, the Enchanted Forest light festival transforms the nearby Faskally Wood into a magical night-time experience and yes, it’s dog-friendly.
Travel tip: Our planner finds the best prices on scenic routes from Edinburgh or Glasgow, with split ticket savings automatically applied.
Best time to visit: Autumn for the festival, or summer for long daylight hours and lush green landscapes.
Cambridge – Green Spaces and Riverside Rambles
Image credit: Anna | Unsplash
Not just for students, Cambridge is a dog-friendly gem with its parks, riverside walks, and cafés that are happy to serve both you and your pet. Hire a punt (dog life jacket optional) for a unique experience along the River Cam, or stroll through Jesus Green and Midsummer Common.
Travel tip: Trains run regularly from London, Norwich, and beyond, our journey planner makes sure you get the lowest price without the need to check every fare yourself.
Best time to visit: Summer for riverside picnics, spring for blossom-filled parks.
Before You Go – Prepping for a Smooth Journey
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Two travel free – You can take up to two pets per passenger without paying extra.
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Off-peak is best – More space for your pet to stretch out.
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Pack smart – Bring water, snacks, and a blanket to make them comfortable.
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Breaks & walks – Build in a little extra time for pre-journey walks to help pets settle onboard.
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Choose the right seat – Window seats with extra legroom can be more comfortable for pets lying on the floor.
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Let us handle the savings – Our journey planner automatically checks for split tickets and the cheapest available fares.
Quick FAQs
Q: Can pets travel for free on UK trains?
Yes! Up to two pets per passenger travel free.
Q: Are there special carriages for pets?
No, but off-peak travel often means more space and quieter journeys.
Q: How can I keep my pet comfortable?
Bring familiar items like blankets and toys, and ensure they have food and water handy.
Ready for Your Next Adventure Together?
From Cornwall’s sandy coves to the Highlands’ winding trails, your next pet-friendly getaway is just a train ride away. Whether it’s a beach sprint or a riverside stroll, we’ll help you and your four-legged friend get there for less.
👉Use our journey planner to sniff out the best fares and start your next adventure on the right paw.
Need a Paw with Your Booking?
Not sure which route is best for you and your four-legged friend? Whether it’s a seaside escape or a Highland hike, we’ll help you fetch the best fare.
👉 Contact us here and let’s get your tails wagging.