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  9. A guide to dog-friendly Northampton

A guide to dog-friendly Northampton

TrustedHousesitters blog writer Lydia Paladina
Lydia Paladina
29 March 20256 min read
an outside of the sandy stones buildings in Northampton city center

A lot is happening in Northampton these days! As a bustling English city, it offers a variety of dog-friendly venues and activities. Whether you’re someone seeking an opportunity to house sit in Northampton, a pet parent on the lookout for a Northampton pet sitter, or looking to have a chilled day with your pup pal, here’s how to make the most of dog-friendly Northampton.

Dog parks in Northampton

Abington Park

Northampton's oldest and most popular park, featuring lakes, flower displays, and open spaces perfect for leashed dogs.

Location: Northampton NN1 5LW, United Kingdom

Delapré Park

Located near the city center, this park offers 500 acres of woodland and parkland where dogs can roam. After your walk, enjoy refreshments at the on-site café.

Location: 122 London Rd, Northampton NN4 8AR, United Kingdom

Brixworth Country Park

Adjacent to Pitsford Water, this park provides a 7-mile circular trail abundant with wildlife. Dogs are welcome off-lead in certain areas.

Location: Northampton Rd, Brixworth, Northampton NN6 9DG, United Kingdom

Dog-friendly restaurants in Northampton

The Old House

Combines a modern dining experience with a dog-friendly environment, ensuring both you and your pet feel at home. 

Location: 214-216 Wellingborough Rd, Northampton NN1 4EE, United Kingdom

The Artichoke Inn

With a lovely garden for your pup to sniff around as well as an extensive menu for two-legged friends to choose from, this is another fab place to stop off for lunch. Water bowls and ear ruffles will be provided for pups, and there is a great selection of beer and wine for humans.

Location: 23 Church St, Moulton, Northampton NN3 7SP, United Kingdom

The Narrow Boat

Enjoy a lovely lunch alongside your furry friend at The Narrow Boat. Pooches are welcome in the bar and gardens—with great views, locally sourced food, and friendly staff, this is a pawsome place to stop for a late lunch.

Location: Watling St, Weedon Bec, Northampton NN7 4RZ, UK

Heart of England

Situated next to a lovely canal, the views are simply lovely. This pub provides walks from one to eight miles that you and your pup can explore, finishing off back at The Wharf for a nice cold beer and a spot of food. Doggies are welcome here and will be provided with water bowls and tummy scratches.

Location: Weedon Bec, Northampton NN7 4QD, United Kingdom

Fun dog-friendly activities in Northampton

Hunsbury Hill Iron Age Hill Fort

As the name suggests, nestled in amongst the forest on Hunsbury Hill rests the ruins of a old Iron Age fort. Well-behaved dogs and humans are welcome to soak up the history and beautiful site.

Cost: Free entry

Date and time: 24/7

Location: Northampton NN4 9RR, United Kingdom

Dog-friendly walking trails in Northampton

Lings Wood Nature Reserve

A 20.1-hectare reserve offering woodland, ponds, scrub, and grassland. It's a serene spot where dogs can explore various habitats, including areas where native woodland is regenerating naturally.

Location: Lings Way, Northampton NN3 8BE, United Kingdom

Bradlaugh Fields

This 60-hectare open space, formerly a golf course, features ancient hedgerows and unimproved grassland. Dogs can enjoy diverse terrains, including the 'Hills and Holes' area, which is an ancient disused quarry with grassed ridges and hollows.

Location: Fulford Dr, Northampton NN2 7NX, United Kingdom

Dog-friendly cafes in Northampton

Millers Yard Café

Located at Broughton Mill Farm, Welford Road, Chapel Brampton, NN6 8AB, this café offers homemade food, including all-day breakfasts, fresh sandwiches, and rolls. The welcoming atmosphere extends to canine visitors, making it a pleasant spot for both you and your dog.

Location: Mill Equestrian Centre, Boughton, United Kingdom

Parkway Coffee

Situated in Weston Favell, Parkway Coffee provides a spacious outdoor seating area and a welcoming indoor space for well-behaved dogs. They offer a special 'Puppuccino' treat for canine customers, ensuring both you and your furry friend have an enjoyable visit.

Location: 1A Parkway, Weston Favell, Northampton NN3 3BS, United Kingdom

The Drovers Return

Found within West Hunsbury Park, this café is known for its dog-friendly environment. Visitors have praised its great breakfast options, including vegetarian choices, and ample parking, making it a convenient stop during park visits.

Location: Hunsbury Hill County Park, Hunsbury Hill Rd, Northampton NN4 9UW, United Kingdom

Genevieve's Café

This family-run café offers drinks, breakfast, lunch, and cakes, with a soft play area to entertain children and a dog-friendly space, ensuring a comfortable visit for all family members.

Location: Pineham Village, Dragonfly Way, Upton, Northampton NN4 9EH, United Kingdom

The Roade House

Located in Northampton, this café is recognized for its dog-friendly policy, providing a welcoming environment for both you and your canine companion.

Location: 16 High St, Roade, Northampton NN7 2NW, United Kingdom

Annual dog events in Northampton

Social Sunday Dog Walk

Organized by Pamper My Poochie, this event offers a leisurely group dog walk, fostering socialization for both dogs and owners.

Cost: Free

Date and time: Sunday, April 6th, 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Location: Upton Country Park, Upton Way, Upton, Northampton NN5 4EQ, United Kingdom

T’s Dog Fest

A canine carnival celebrating four-legged friends, featuring various dog-friendly activities, competitions, a Charity Dog Show, and a Dog Market. Head to their website to find out all the details.

Cost: Free

Date and time: April 13th, 10:00 - 14:00

Location: T’s Coffee, Pitsford Quarry, Pitsford NN6 9NL, United Kingdom

The best dog-friendly bars in Northampton

The Lamplighter

A welcoming pub known for its friendly atmosphere towards dogs, making it a great spot to relax after a walk. 

Location: 66 Overstone Rd, Northampton NN1 3JS, United Kingdom

The Malt Shovel Tavern

This establishment is renowned for its selection of real ales and its accommodating attitude towards canine visitors.

Location: 121 Bridge St, Northampton NN1 1QF, United Kingdom

The Windhover

Located in Chapel Brampton, this Vintage Inns pub welcomes dogs in its bar area, providing water and treats to ensure a comfortable visit for your four-legged friend.

Location: Brampton Ln, Chapel Brampton, Northampton NN6 8AA, United Kingdom

Dog-friendly wineries in Northampton

New Lodge Vineyard

Situated in Earls Barton, Northamptonshire, New Lodge Vineyard is known for its dog-friendly environment. Visitors can enjoy tours and explore the vineyard with their pets.

Location: Northampton Rd, Earls Barton, Northampton NN6 0HF, United Kingdom

Tips on dog-friendly things to do in Northampton from dog owners and pet sitters

Northampton's blend of parks, welcoming establishments, and pet services ensures a delightful experience for both you and your dog or pup pal. Here’s how to enjoy your exploration of this historic city together as both a pet parent and as a pet sitter.

Tips for pet parents

Social outings

Plan your walks around dog-friendly cafés or parks to allow your dog to socialize while you relax.

Stay informed

Always check the specific pet policies of activities and eateries before visiting, as guidelines can change.

Explore surrounding green spaces

Both Northampton and the surrounding Northamptonshire area have lots of pretty places to walk and take in the local nature with your pup. This includes canal walks next to historic aqueducts and railroads.

Plan ahead for your vacation

Planning a day out locally is simple, but what about when it’s time for a holiday? Well as vets agree pets are happier at home, consider connecting with a trusted Northampton dog sitter ahead of your next trip. Click below to find out how.

How to connect with pet sitters in Northampton

How it works

Tips for pet sitters

Follow the dog’s routine

Keep your new pal in the schedule they’re used to, and follow pet parent instructions on where you’re allowed to take them.

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.

Check local rules

If you’re new to Northampton, you’re unlikely to be familiar with local rules around dog walking and fouling, so please check local websites to make sure you’re abiding by council rules.

Experience Northampton 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 Northampton house sit.

How to find house sits in Northampton

How it works

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