The old and contemporary are brought seamlessly together in Leicester, as is its variety of dog-friendly venues and activities around the city. Whether you’re seeking an opportunity to house sit in Leicester, a pet parent on the lookout for a Leicester dog sitter, or looking to have a chilled day with your pup pal, here’s how to make the most of dog-friendly Leicester.
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Dog parks in Leicester
Fosse Meadows Country Park
Known for its woodland trails and open spaces, Fosse Meadows is ideal for early morning walks. A coffee van is often present in the car park, allowing you to grab a refreshment during your visit.
Location: Roman Rd, Hinckley LE10 3AB
Watermead Country Park
A beautiful area featuring lakes, grasslands, and marshes, providing a variety of trails suitable for dog walking. It's an excellent spot for both leisurely strolls and more extended hikes.
Location: Wanlip Rd, Fillingate, Leicester LE7 8PF
Abbey Park
A well-maintained park featuring riverside paths, open green spaces, and a café with outdoor seating for dog owners.
Location: Abbey Park Rd, Leicester LE4 5AQ
Western Park
One of Leicester’s largest parks, with woodland areas, open fields, and nature trails for off-lead fun in certain sections.
Location: Leicester LE3 6HX
Knighton Park
Features large grassy areas, woodland paths, and a designated dog exercise area for off-lead play.
Location: Palmerston Way, Leicester LE2 3RE
Victoria Park
A central park with wide open spaces and pathways, great for social dogs and a casual walk.
Location: Granville Rd, Leicester LE1 7RY
Dog-friendly restaurants in Leicester
The Windmill Inn
Situated in Brascote, this countryside inn boasts a cozy atmosphere with a wood-burning stove for colder months and a sunny beer garden for warmer days. Dogs are welcome, and the menu features hearty homemade pies and renowned Sunday roasts.
Location: Brascote Ln, Brascote, Newbold Verdon, Leicester LE9 9LE
The Cradock Arms
Located in Knighton, this traditional pub is known for its friendly staff and dog-welcoming policy. With a large garden area, it's a perfect spot for a meal or drink with your canine companion.
Location: 201 Knighton Rd, Knighton, Leicester LE2 3TT, United Kingdom
The King's Head
Situated in the city center, this historic pub allows dogs in designated areas. They offer a range of real ales and classic British dishes, making it a great spot to relax after exploring the city.
Location: 36 King St, Leicester LE1 6RL, United Kingdom
The Rutland & Derby Arms
This pub offers a relaxed atmosphere with a rooftop terrace where dogs are welcome. They serve a variety of craft beers and have a menu featuring modern British cuisine.
Location: 21 Millstone Ln, Leicester LE1 5JN, United Kingdom
The Western
Situated near the university, this pub is dog-friendly and often hosts live music events. They have a range of ales and a menu featuring classic pub dishes.
Fun dog-friendly activities in Leicester
Easy Street Lanes
For a unique experience, visit this dog-friendly bowling alley in Leicester. Enjoy a game while your dog relaxes nearby, making for a fun outing for both of you.
Cost: £9-10 per game
Date and time: Mondays-Thursdays: 2 pm - 11 pm, Fridays: 2 pm - 12 am, Saturdays: 11 am - 12 am, Sundays: 11 am - 9 pm
Location: East Street Lanes, East St, Leicester LE1 6NB
Caddyshackers
Leicester's only 18-hole, 18+ crazy golf bar welcomes dogs, allowing you to enjoy a round of mini-golf accompanied by your furry friend. They also offer activities like axe throwing and have a VR escape room.
Cost: Min. £9 per adult
Date and time: Wednesdays-Thursdays: 3 pm - 11 pm, Fridays: 3 pm - 12 am, Saturdays: 11 am - 12 am, Sundays: 11 am - 9 pm
Location: 40 Calais Hill, Leicester LE1 6AR
Dog-friendly walking trails in Leicester
Aylestone Meadows
A lovely riverside nature reserve with walking trails, wildflower meadows, and plenty of space for dogs to run and explore.
Location: Canal St, Leicester LE2 8LZ
Length: 8.8 hectares (22 acres)
Bradgate Park
Spanning 850 acres, Bradgate Park offers expansive moorland and ancient woodlands, perfect for on-lead walks with your dog. The park is home to herds of red and fallow deer, so it's essential to keep dogs under control to protect the wildlife.
Location: Bradgate Park, Newtown Linford, Leicester LE6 0HE
Length: 344 hectares (850 acres)
Dog-friendly cafes in Leicester
Leicester Coffee House Company
Located on Granby Street, this café is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and the resident dog, Tommo, who often greets visitors. It's an ideal spot to enjoy a coffee while your dog relaxes by your side
Location: 110 Granby St, Leicester LE1 1DL
James Café Bistro
Located on Bond Street, this quirky bistro serves freshly prepared comfort food using locally sourced ingredients. With ample outdoor seating, it's an ideal spot to enjoy a meal with your dog while soaking up the city's atmosphere.
Location: 5 E Bond St, Leicester LE1 4SX, United Kingdom
Esquires Coffee
With locations at New Walk Place and The Wullcomb, Esquires Coffee welcomes dogs and even offers 'Pupaccinos' for your canine companion. It's a great place to enjoy brunch or a coffee date with your pet.
Location: The Circle, 5 New Walk, Leicester LE1 6RU, United Kingdom
Bark & Brew Coffee Shop
Situated in Mountsorrel, Bark & Brew is a dedicated dog-friendly café offering a menu for both humans and dogs. They host dog birthday parties and provide toys and treats for purchase, ensuring a delightful experience for your furry friend.
Location: 14 Cromwell Rd, Mountsorrel, Loughborough LE12 7EY, United Kingdom
ORSO Leicester
This hidden gem offers a cozy setting where dogs are allowed and warmly welcomed. Patrons have praised its friendly service and accommodating approach to canine guests.
Annual dog events in Leicester
Leicester Animal Aid Events
Leicester Animal Aid hosts a range of events throughout the year, including dog shows, pet first aid courses, and family-friendly activities. These events provide opportunities for socialization and learning, all while supporting a local animal charity. Head to their website to find the right event for you and your pup!
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: Various
Location: Various
Puppy Love Events
Operating throughout the Midlands, including Leicester, Puppy Love Events specializes in puppy play and cuddle sessions aimed at boosting well-being for both dogs and participants. These events are designed to provide socialization for puppies and a serotonin boost for attendees. For Leicester, the next upcoming event will be for Yorkiepoos and Pizza!
Cost: £36 per person
Date and time: April 19th, 1 pm
The best dog-friendly bars in Leicester
The Globe
A historic pub dating back to 1720, The Globe offers a warm welcome to dogs in its bar area and outdoor seating. Water bowls and complimentary dog treats are provided to ensure your pet feels at home.
Location: 43 Silver St, Leicester LE1 5EU
The Pug & Greyhound
A welcoming pub in Great Glen, offering a cozy atmosphere and a spacious beer garden. Dogs are allowed both indoors and outdoors, and water bowls are provided to keep your pet hydrated.
Location: 14 London Rd, Great Glen, Leicester LE8 9GF
Tree
A vibrant bar in the heart of Leicester, known for its eclectic décor and dog-friendly policy. They provide water bowls and occasionally have dog treats behind the bar.
Location: 99 High St, Leicester LE1 4JB, United Kingdom
The Two-Tailed Lion
A craft beer pub that welcomes well-behaved dogs. With a rotating selection of beers and a cozy interior, it's a great place to unwind with your furry friend.
Location: 22 Millstone Ln, Leicester LE1 5JN, United Kingdom
The Black Horse
A traditional pub in Aylestone, welcoming dogs both inside and in the beer garden. Known for its friendly staff and community feel, it's a lovely spot to visit with your pet.
Location: Braunstone Gate, Leicester LE3 5LT, United Kingdom
Dog-friendly wineries in Leicester
Rothley Wine Estate
Located in Rothley, this vineyard welcomes well-behaved dogs. During Tête-à-Tête or Safari events, dogs may roam freely within reason. For tutored wine tastings with other attendees, dogs should be kept on a lead to ensure everyone's comfort.
Location: Kingfishers’ Pool Vineyard, 43 Westfield Ln, Rothley, Leicester LE7 7LH, United Kingdom
Veeno Leicester
Situated in St Martins, Veeno is a wine bar that invites guests to bring their dogs along. They offer a variety of Italian wines and appetizers, creating a relaxed atmosphere for both you and your pet.
Location: Units 19 & 20, 9 St Martins, Leicester LE1 5DE, United Kingdom
Tips on dog-friendly things to do in Leicester from dog owners and pet sitters
As a popular and busy university city, it’s good to know how to make dog-friendly Leicester work for you and your pooch pal. Here’s a few tips and tricks on how to have fun at dog-friendly places in Leicester, either with your own dog or with a new pup pal.
Tips for pet parents
Contact places in advance
When planning your visit, it's advisable to contact establishments in advance to confirm their current pet policies, as these can change.
Keep your dog leashed
Always keep your dog on a lead where required and ensure they are well-behaved to maintain the welcoming atmosphere of these venues.
Explore the surrounding green spaces
Leicester and the surrounding Leicestershire area 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 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, so consider connecting with a trusted Leicester pet sitter ahead of your next trip. Click below to find out how.
How to connect with pet sitters in Leicester
Tips for pet sitters
Just those local dog laws
When venturing out onto one of the many dog-friendly parks in Leicester, be sure to check signage and respect local wildlife. Always presume it’s on-leash unless stated otherwise.
Follow the dog’s routine
Keep your new pal on the schedule they’re used to, and follow pet parent instructions on where you’re allowed to take them.
Get the pet parent’s 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 Leicester through house sitting
So, 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 Leicester house sit.
How to find house sits in Leicester
