Andover is a charming market town that’s loaded with pet-friendly activities to enjoy. From peaceful walks to delightful cafes and dog-friendly accommodation, this guide will show you how dog-friendly Andover is. As a bonus, you’ll also discover how to experience the town through house sitting opportunities in Andover – and find a trusted Andover pet sitter for those times when you need to be away from home.
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Best dog parks in Andover
Nothing beats seeing your dogs go full zoomies in a green, open space like these parks…
Rooksbury Mill Local Nature Reserve
Tucked just south of the town center, Rooksbury Mill is a calm and restorative nature reserve with plenty of paths, lakes, and wildlife to sniff out.
Location: Rooksbury Mill Local nature Reserve, Barlows Ln, Andover SP10 2HA
April’s Farm
A private off-leash area in the countryside that offers fully fenced paddocks where your pup can run free.
Location: Andover SP11 6JB
Paw Paddock
Paw Paddock is a dedicated dog-walking facility, and the one in Andover is a local fave. The play space is secure and spacious, with lots of agility equipment.
Location: Longparish Rd, Andover SP11 7JN
Dog-friendly restaurants in Andover
Here are some of the top dog-friendly restaurants in Andover that locals adore, where you and your doggos can dine together.
Chalkhill Blue
Right by the Weyhill Farm Shop, this lively restaurant serves up lovely food and seasonal pub classics. Dogs are welcome in the bar and beer garden.
Location: Hawker Siddeley Way, Andover SP11 8BF
Hare & Hounds
Hare & Hounds is a classic British dog-friendly restaurant and pub known for its rustic charm and relaxed vibe.
Location: Mays Down Ln, Andover SP11 0JA
Duck & Tipple Andover
Known for its wide selection of premium drinks and cocktails, this quirky bar warmly welcomes dogs inside, even during game nights.
Location: 11 London St, Andover SP10 2NU
Fun dog-friendly activities in Andover
Andover is packed with lots of fun places and things to do with your pups…
Enjoying the beauty of Houghton Lodge Gardens
Often named the “Jewel of the Test Valley,” Houghton Lodge Gardens offers stunning historical views with colorful gardens and open spaces for your pooches to sniff and stroll through.
Cost: Adult £12.50, child £5.50, under 3 Free
Date and time: Open daily 10 AM - 5 PM (seasonal)
Location: Houghton, North Houghton, Stockbridge SO20 6LQ
Historical train riding the Watercress Line
All aboard the steam train! This heritage railway is totally pet-friendly, so your dog can ride alongside you like a Victorian-era gentleman.
Cost: Adult £24.00, child (5-16) £12.00, under 5 Free
Date and time: Monday to Saturday 10 AM - 4.30 PM
Location: The Railway Station, Station Road, New Alresford SO24 9JG
Visiting the Brickworks Museum
This museum is the only surviving steam-driven brickworks in the UK. Dogs are welcome, and inside, you’ll learn about the fascinating history of British brickmaking.
Cost: Adult £7.00, child (5-16) £5.00, over 65/student £6.00, family (2 adults/3 children) £21.00
Date and time: Wednesday, Thursday, & Sunday 11 AM - 4 PM
Best dog-friendly walking trails in Andover
Andover is home to several sniff-tacular walking trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
Ladies Walk
With sweeping views over the countryside and enough space for off-lead fun, this trail is ideal for a quick but beautiful wander.
Location: Andover, UK
Length: 5.3 km
Harewood Forest
Ideal for forest bathing (and stick fetching), the forest is full of ancient woodlands, shady trails, and the occasional deer sighting.
Location: Andover, UK
Length: 5.6 km loop
Foxcotte to Penton
This loop trail links the lovely villages of Foxcotte and Penton Mewsey, with open fields, country lanes, and maybe a pub stop or two.
Location: Andover SP10 4EZ
Length: 6.6 km loop
The best dog-friendly cafes in Andover
If you’re looking for a daily caffeine dose, these dog-friendly cafes in Andover make the best pit stops.
Waggys Coffee Shop
The clue’s in the name. Waggys Coffee Shop is arguably the icon of dog-friendly cafés in Andover, with comfy nooks for curling up with a latte with your four-legged friend.
Location: Weyhill Rd, Weyhill, Andover SP11 0PP
blueOnion Espresso
Artisan coffee, Scandi vibes, and pups aplenty. The outdoor seating is ideal for a sunny sit-down with your pooch.
Location: 73 High St, Andover SP10 1LP
Coffee#1 Andover
A comfy local café chain for coffee lovers and casual diners, where dogs are welcome inside and out.
Annual dog events in Andover
Mark your calendars for these events made for true dog lovers in and around Andover.
Paw-ty In The Park Southampton & Dog Show
A full-blown festival with contests, stalls, and plenty of socializing for both pups and people.
Cost: Free to enter, £3 to join the dog show
Date and time: Annually in May
Location: Chamberlayne Leisure Centre
Street Dogs Photography
A chance to get your pup’s glam on with a professional photoshoot in iconic Andover locations.
Cost: Free
Date and time: Typically in April
Location: The Great Hall
All About Dogs Show Newbury
A 30-minute drive from Andover, but well worth it! This massive show is a dream come true for every social dog – two days of agility courses, expert advice, shopping, and lots of fun, have-a-go activities.
Cost: Free
Date and time: Annually in April
Location: Newbury Showground
Andover Vegan Market
Open to all, including dogs, Andover Vegan Market is an event held on the High Street, featuring a diverse array of vegan stalls offering delicious street food, sweet treats, and cruelty-free skincare.
Cost: Free
Date and time: Annually in April
Location: Andover Vegan Market
The best dog-friendly pub in Andover
Sometimes you just want to enjoy a pint with your pup, and these dog-friendly pubs in Andover make that possible.
The Poplar Farm
A rustic, dog-friendly country pub with a cracking beer garden, water bowls readily available, and treats behind the bar.
Location: Old Salisbury Rd, Andover SP11 7NJ
Anton Arms
A 1930s-style pub where dogs are truly valued. Great for outings with the whole pack, it includes a lounge, dining area, and a bar with a pool table.
Location: Salisbury Rd, Andover SP10 2JN
The Town Mills
Sat beside the River Anton, this pub features a beer garden offering quality cask ales, lagers, and spirits. It’s a favorite for sunny drinks and doggy downtime.
Dog-friendly wineries in Andover
Andover even caters to wine-loving pet parents! Check out these establishments if you’re in the mood for a glass and some fresh air.
Black Chalk Wine
A stylish vineyard offering tastings and tours, where dogs are welcome to join you as you sip on Hampshire’s finest fizz.
Location: Fullerton Rd, Andover SP11 7JX
Coates & Seely
A small-scale, artisanal vineyard that produces distinctive English sparkling wines and allows dogs to join inside.
Location: The Harrow Way, Whitchurch RG28 7QT
Goodworth Clatford Vineyard
A tranquil vineyard, superb for a family outing and sightseeing with your four-legged friends.
Location: Manor Farm House, Church Ln, Goodworth Clatford, Andover SP11 7HL
Tips for pet parents
So you’re a pet parent in Andover? Lucky you! Here are some tips to help you and your partner in crime make the most of the town.
Mind the surroundings
Andover offers beautiful places to walk your dog, such as Rooksbury Mill and Harewood Forest. However, many of these areas border open countryside, so be mindful of wildlife like pheasants and deer on country lanes, as well as fast-moving traffic in rural areas.
Create a safe environment
When exploring the outdoors, it's important to look out for toxic plants, especially in off-leash areas where there are many plants that are tempting to curious chewers. If in doubt, make sure to read our guide: Poisonous plants for dogs to avoid.
Scout out dog-friendly accommodation in Andover
If you’re visiting from out of town, don’t worry – Andover has a variety of dog-friendly accommodation options. From cozy countryside inns like The Jack Russell Inn to local Airbnb listings and The Star and Garter Hotel in the town centre, there’s something to suit every traveller and their pooch.
Hire a trustworthy pet sitter
There’ll be times when you need to leave your pets at home. When that happens, consider finding a dependable dog-loving sitter who can care for both your pets and your home. Pets are happiest at home (and vets agree!), and it's a great way to have peace of mind while you're away. Click below to learn more.
Finding a pet sitter
Tips for pet sitters
If you’re pet sitting in Adover, we have a few top tips to make your stay with your new furry friend even smoother.
Lock up and check the home carefully
Safety first! Always do a full walkthrough to make sure the property is secure. Double-check that all doors and windows are locked, you’ve noted how the alarm system works, and have saved any emergency contacts.
Take advantage of all Andover has to offer
While pet sitting in Andover, make the most of the area’s dog-friendly perks to keep your new pet pal active and content. Our top picks include April’s Farm and Paw Paddock – both great places for exercise and social time.
Enjoy Andover while pet sitting
One of the best things about pet sitting in Andover is the chance to discover the town. While caring for adorable pets, you can stop for coffee at the popular Waggys Coffee Shop or admire the beauty of Houghton Lodge Gardens. Curious? Click below to find out more!
Finding a house sit
