Although ancient, Britain’s oldest city is contemporarily dog-friendly. Colchester has a variety of attractions, which are pro-pup, for those seeking a new adventure. There are plenty of opportunities for pet sitting in Colchester and for pet parents, it’s an ideal place to search for a Colchester pet sitter. Let’s take a look!
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Dog parks in Colchester
High Woods Country Park
This expansive park features woodlands, meadows, and ponds, providing diverse landscapes for dogs to explore. It's a popular spot for local dog-walking groups.
Location: 174 Turner Rd, Colchester CO4 5JR, United Kingdom
Lower Castle Park
Located in the heart of Colchester, this open green space welcomes dogs and offers scenic views, making it a pleasant spot for a leisurely walk.
Location: Castle Rd, Colchester CO1 1UW, United Kingdom
Gosbecks Archaeological Park
This historic site offers open fields and walking paths, providing ample space for dogs to explore while their owners enjoy the rich history of the area.
Dog-friendly restaurants in Colchester
Three Wise Monkeys
Situated on the High Street, this tap house and restaurant spans four floors and welcomes dogs both inside and out. They serve American-style dishes, from chicken and waffles to wings.
Location: 60 High St, Colchester CO1 1DN, United Kingdom
The Hare and Hounds
Located in the picturesque village of Layer Breton near Colchester, this village pub and restaurant is dog-friendly, welcoming well-behaved dogs in the bar area and even providing treats for them.
Location: Lansdown Rd, Bath BA1 5TJ, United Kingdom
Shepherd & Dog Inn
Situated in the village of Langham, this free house pub welcomes dogs and offers a relaxed atmosphere with a garden, real ales, and traditional food.
Location: Moor Rd, Langham, Colchester CO4 5NR, United Kingdom
Kings Arms
Located on Crouch Street in Colchester, this dog-friendly pub serves food daily and features an Al Fresco area ideal for dining with friends in the summer. They also host a weekly quiz and provide a cozy environment to relax and meet friends.
Location: 61-63 Crouch St, Colchester CO3 3EY, United Kingdom
Fun dog-friendly activities in Colchester
Mersea Island
A short drive from Colchester, this island offers wide open spaces, both sandy and green, perfect for dogs to roam. You might also consider renting a dog-friendly beach hut for the day.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: 24/7
Location: Colchester, UK
Wivenhoe
This charming riverside town near Colchester is ideal for a scenic walk. The community-run pub, The Black Buoy, welcomes dogs, providing a cozy spot to relax.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: 24/7
Location: Colchester, UK
Dog-friendly walking trails in Colchester
Wivenhoe Trail
This scenic riverside trail near Colchester is ideal for a leisurely walk with your dog, offering picturesque views and a tranquil environment.
Location: Wivenhoe, Colchester CO2 8HT, United Kingdom
Length: 5 miles / 8 km
Friday Woods
A delightful woodland area offering shaded paths and natural surroundings, perfect for dogs that enjoy forested walks.
Location: Colchester, UK
Length: 153.20 hectares / 378.56 acres
Dog-friendly cafes in Colchester
Café 21
This café boasts a secluded garden where dogs are welcome, making it a pleasant spot for a meal or coffee.
Location: 21 Trinity St, Colchester CO1 1JN, United Kingdom
No 10 Museum Street Café
Not only does this café welcome dogs, but it also occasionally offers dog-friendly ice cream, ensuring a treat for your furry friend.
Annual dog events in Colchester
Paws Walk
Scheduled for April 12, this event starts at the Mersea Lions Beach Hut. It's a community walk designed for dog owners and their pets to enjoy the scenic routes of the area.
Cost: Free entry (donations welcome)
Date and time: April 12th, 2025
Location: Akhurst Court, Melrose Rd, West Mersea, Colchester CO5 8JB, United Kingdom
Roman and Medieval Festival 2025
Taking place on June 7-8 at Lower Castle Park in Colchester, this festival celebrates the town's rich history. While exploring the historical exhibits and reenactments, dogs on leashes are welcome to join their owners.
Cost: £10 per adult
Date and time: June 7th to 8th
The best dog-friendly bars in Colchester
The Castle Inn
Situated at the entrance to historic Colchester Castle, this pub has been serving patrons since 1690. It offers a freshly made food menu and an extensive choice of drinks, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Location: 92 High St, Colchester CO1 1TH, United Kingdom
The White Hart Inn
Located in West Bergholt, this child and dog-friendly pub offers a safe garden with a play area, open log fires inside, and spacious dining areas. They serve a traditional menu with a selection of real ales, lagers, ciders, and wines.
Location: 1 High St, West Mersea, Colchester CO5 8QD, United Kingdom
Dog-friendly wineries in Colchester
Dedham Vale Vineyard
Located in the heart of the Essex countryside, this vineyard welcomes dogs on leads to accompany their owners while exploring the scenic trails around the property. It's an excellent starting point for walks along the Essex Way and through the Stour Valley. The vineyard hosts events throughout the year and offers wine tastings, making it a delightful destination for wine enthusiasts and their furry friends.
Location: Green Ln, Colchester CO4 5TS, United Kingdom
Mersea Island Vineyard
Situated on Mersea Island, this vineyard offers an outdoor courtyard where dogs are welcome. Visitors can enjoy locally produced wines and ciders in a relaxed setting, with water bowls available to ensure your pet stays hydrated.
Tips on dog-friendly things to do in Colchester from dog owners and pet sitters
To make sure you can take in Colchester's unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities, here are a few tips for visiting pet parents and pet sitters.
Tips for pet parents
Explore surrounding green spaces
Colchester and Essex are known for their stunning natural beauty and surrounding nature reserves, so be sure to make the most of the short drive into the surrounding countryside.
Plan your day ahead
While you’re likely surrounded by dog-friendly places in Colchester, it’s always a good idea to call up before arriving, just in case rules have changed around dog-friendliness.
Check local rules
If you’re new to Colchester, you’re unlikely to be familiar with local rules around dog walking and fouling - check local websites to make sure you’re abiding by council rules.
Plan ahead for your vacation
It’s one thing to plan a day out in your home city, but what do you usually do with your pooch when you go away? Well, as vets agree pets are happier at home, consider connecting with a trusted Colchester pet sitter ahead of your next trip. Click below to find out how.
How to connect with pet sitters in Colchester
Tips for pet sitters
Local pet shops
If you need supplies during your visit, Mersea Farm Shop & Country Stores is a convenient option.
Veterinary services
Just in case, should anything happen to your new pup pal, be sure to ask the pet parents for the contact details of their local vet practice. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Get pet parent permission
Before deciding to take your new pet pal on public transport or to a busy cafe or bar, double check they’re used to those settings.
Experience Colchester through house sitting
If you want to take care of a new furry friend in exchange for a place to stay. Click below to find out how to secure a Colchester house sit.
How to find house sits in Colchester
