Christmas is one of the most magical times of the year but finding places that truly welcome pets during the festive season can feel overwhelming, especially when you want somewhere with real Christmas charm.

So we’ve rounded up the best dog friendly Christmas markets across the UK, including winter activities and scenic walks where your pup can join the fun.

Whether you're planning a weekend break or a full winter getaway, these destinations guarantee festive magic and wagging tails.

5 Best Dog Friendly Christmas Markets Your Pup Will Love

1. Edinburgh – Dog-Friendly Christmas Market Break

Edinburgh is one of the most enchanting cities at Christmas. The streets glow with fairy lights, local choirs sing carols, and the famous Edinburgh Christmas Market is packed with food stalls and artisan gifts.

Why it’s perfect for dogs:

• Dogs are welcome in outdoor areas of the Christmas market

• The city is full of parks and green spaces (Princes Street Gardens is a favourite!)

• So many cafés allow dogs, especially in Stockbridge and New Town

Where to stay:

• Kimpton Charlotte Square – ultra pet-friendly, no extra pet fees, cosy Christmas décor

• The Balmoral – luxurious stay with pet-friendly rooms and festive charm

Bonus festive activity:

Take a winter walk up Calton Hill for the best Christmas-light skyline views.

2. York – A Cosy Medieval Christmas for You & Your Dog

York turns into a real-life snow-globe during December. Its historic streets and timber-frame buildings sparkle under fairy lights, and the York Christmas Market (St Nicholas Fair) is one of the most dog-friendly markets in the UK.

Why it’s perfect for dogs:

• Dogs are welcome through the main market and outdoor stalls

• The Shambles is incredibly atmospheric for dog walks

• You can find dog treats, handmade accessories and festive snacks throughout the market

Where to stay:

• Middlethorpe Hall & Spa – country-house luxury with pet-friendly garden rooms

• The Principal York – close to the city centre with spacious pet-friendly rooms

Bonus festive activity:

Walk the York City Walls with your pup — magical views with fewer crowds in winter.

3. The Cotswolds – A Peaceful Christmas Escape With Dog-Friendly Festivities

Think cosy country pubs, frosty fields, fairy-lit cottages, and boutique hotels that adore dogs. The Cotswolds is a dreamy Christmas destination.

Many villages host dog-friendly festive markets, especially in Stow-on-the-Wold and Broadway.

Why it’s perfect for dogs:

• Endless countryside walks

• Most pubs welcome dogs (often with treats by the bar!)

• Christmas markets here are smaller, peaceful and dog-friendly

Where to stay:

• The Fish Hotel – famous for being ultra dog-friendly with dog hampers

• The Lamb Inn, Burford – beautifully decorated for Christmas, cosy fireplaces

Bonus festive activity:

Visit Broadway Tower for golden winter views and brilliant walking trails.

4. Bath – Winter Wonderland & Pet-Friendly Christmas Shopping

Bath’s award-winning Christmas Market fills the city with festive joy. While indoor chalets can be busy, dogs are welcome throughout the outdoor spaces.

Why it’s perfect for dogs:

• The entire city centre lights up with festive décor

• So many independent stores welcome well-behaved dogs

• Nearby countryside walks along the canal and Bath Skyline trail

Where to stay:

• Lucknam Park – luxury country hotel with dog-friendly rooms and grounds

• Apex City of Bath – central, modern and pet-friendly

Bonus festive activity:

Take your pup for a sunset walk along Pulteney Bridge — the Christmas lights are stunning.

5. Manchester – A Festive City Break With Europe-Style Christmas Markets

Manchester’s Christmas Market is one of the biggest in the UK and offers a truly continental feel — German stalls, hot chocolate mountains, lights everywhere and plenty of outdoor areas where dogs can join.

Why it’s perfect for dogs:

• Markets are spread across the city, with many open-air sections

• Canal walks around Castlefield are peaceful in winter

• Many restaurants in Northern Quarter are dog-friendly

Where to stay:

• Kimpton Clocktower Hotel – extremely pet-friendly, festive décor and spacious rooms

• Whitworth Locke – trendy, apartment-style rooms perfect for dog owners

Bonus festive activity:

Stop by Dogs & Dough, a dog-friendly spot for laid-back food after exploring the markets.

Tips for a Stress-Free Christmas Trip With Your Dog

To make your pet-friendly festive break even smoother, here’s what we recommend bringing:

• A warm dog jumper or coat

• Portable water bowl

• Paw balm to protect against icy pavements

• Christmas-themed dog treats (our Soopa treats make the perfect travel snack!)

• A cosy blanket to help your pup settle in new places

And always check market guidelines — most allow dogs outdoors but not inside enclosed chalets.

Final Thoughts: Make Christmas Even More Magical With a Dog-Friendly Getaway

A festive break becomes even more special when your dog can join the fun. Whether you choose a cosy countryside village or a sparkling city full of Christmas lights, these UK stays make it easy to celebrate the season together.

If you're looking for the perfect treats to pack for your dog this winter, explore our Soopa Christmas Collection — made with natural, plant-based goodness your pup will love.