Dog-friendly Shrewsbury: Things to do in Shrewsbury with a dog

Looking for the dog-friendly guide to Shrewsbury that actually tells you where your pup is truly welcome? You’re in the right place. 

Whether you're a local or are a visitor looking for some house sitting opportunities in Shrewsbury, we’ve sniffed out the best dog-friendly places in Shrewsbury for you and your sidekick. Plus, for tips finding a reliable Shrewsbury pet sitter, read on to learn more!

Best dog parks in Shrewsbury

Looking for places in Shrewsbury where your pup can run, sniff, and roll in suspiciously delightful patches of grass? These open spaces are perfect for letting your four-legged explorer roam free, meet new furry friends, and maybe even chase a squirrel (or two). 

The Quarry

If there’s a doggy social scene in Shrewsbury, The Quarry is where it’s happening. This 29-acre park attracts walkers in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, with expansive green fields, picturesque riverside paths, and ample room for energetic sprints. The River Severn adds a splash of adventure, ideal for water-loving dogs (and humans who don’t mind the occasional wet shake-off). 

Location: The Quarry, Shrewsbury, SY1 1JA

Reabrook Valley Nature Reserve

For canines who love a good nose workout, Reabrook Valley Nature Reserve is a dream. This dog-friendly attraction features meadows, woodlands, and numerous winding trails for impromptu scavenger hunts. It’s a bit of a hidden gem with fewer crowds, more sniffs, and all the rich scents of nature. As a bonus, it has off-lead areas where four-legged adventurers can roam freely.

Location: Reabrook Valley, Shrewsbury, SY3 7TD

Dog-friendly restaurants in Shrewsbury

Dining out with your dog shouldn’t feel like smuggling a snack into the cinema. Thankfully, these dog-friendly restaurants in Shrewsbury provide extra water bowls – and maybe even a cheeky treat under the table. Because let’s be honest, your pup deserves a seat at the table too.

The Loopy Shrew 

This stylish venue isn’t just known for its delicious food but also for being among the most pet-friendly. The "dogs welcome" signs are reinforced with belly rubs and biscuit bribes. Furry companions are allowed in the bar area, making it a fantastic place to enjoy a meal while your four-legged friend laps up the attention.

Location: The Loopy Shrew, 15/17 Bellstone, Shrewsbury SY1 1HU, United Kingdom

Number Four

This café-restaurant serves up hearty breakfasts, fresh lunches, and indulgent cakes with a side of top-tier hospitality. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area, making it a great stop before a riverside walk. Friendly staff and a laid-back vibe make this a go-to for dog parents looking for a relaxed bite.
Location: 4 Butcher Row, Shrewsbury SY1 1UW, United Kingdom

Fun dog-friendly activities in Shrewsbury

Same old walk? Nah. Shrewsbury offers a variety of dog-friendly attractions that take "walkies" to the next level. From boat cruises to historic tours, these experiences make exploring Shrewsbury a real treat. 

Sail the Severn on the Sabrina Boat

Forget chasing sticks; how about chasing waves? The Sabrina Boat cruise lets you sit back, relax, and take in the riverside views of Shrewsbury. Dogs ride free, so they can enjoy the fresh breeze while you soak up the sights. Just be prepared for a few nose prints on the windows.
Cost: Varies
Date and Time: Seasonal, check website
Location: Victoria House Victoria Quay, Victoria Ave, Welsh Bridge, Shrewsbury SY1 1HH, United Kingdom

Explore Shrewsbury Prison

Your dog may have never stolen a sausage, but that doesn’t mean they can’t experience Dana Jail. This infamous site, also known as Shrewsbury Prison, provides a place where pups can sniff through centuries of history. No need to worry, there's no hard time here, just a fun and fascinating tour.
Cost: Entry fee applies
Date and Time: Open daily
Location: The Dana, Shrewsbury SY1 2HP, United Kingdom

A day trip to Old Castle 

If your dog enjoys a good castle ruin, a short trip from Shrewsbury brings you to Old Castle Bridgnorth, where open spaces and history collide. Once a mighty fortress, this now peaceful site offers scenic walks and endless sniffs for curious pups. Bonus points if your dog strikes a noble pose for the perfect medieval-themed photo.
Cost: Free
Date and Time: Open daily
Location: West Castle Street, Bridgnorth WV16 4AF

Best dog-friendly walking trails in Shrewsbury

If your pooch treats walkies like an Olympic sport, Shrewsbury has plenty of picturesque trails to tire them out (or at least try to). These dog-friendly walks in Shrewsbury are packed with fresh air, open spaces, and a ton of sniff-worthy spots.

Severn Way Walk 

If your dog loves watching ducks, wagging at joggers, and stopping every two seconds to sniff something, Severn Way Walk is a must. It's one of the best dog-friendly hikes in Shrewsbury, following the River Severn and offering a mix of town and countryside views.
Location: Various entry points, Shrewsbury
Length: 12 km

Haughmond Hill 

Haughmond Hill is a paradise for energetic hounds who love a woodland challenge. With towering trees, wide open trails, and off-lead sections, this trail guarantees an adventure. Keep an eye out for wildlife (aka, squirrels who think they own the place), and reward yourself with a drink at the café when your pup finally runs out of steam.
Location: Haughmond Hill, Uffington, Shrewsbury SY4 4PW
Length: Various trails available

Attingham Park

For a stately stroll with your four-legged bestie, Attingham Park serves up parkland perfection. Think rolling fields, shady woodlands, and just enough grand estate vibes to make your dog feel like royalty. Well-behaved doggies are welcome on leads, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a slower, more refined sniffer’s tour.

Location: Attingham Park, Atcham, Shrewsbury SY4 4TP

Length: Various trails available

The best dog-friendly cafes in Shrewsbury

Every adventure deserves a coffee break! These dog-friendly cafes in Shrewsbury serve up great brews, tasty treats, and a warm welcome for you and your well-behaved pup.

Chez Sophie

A charming café with Parisian vibes, Chez Sophie is a must-visit for coffee lovers and their four-legged sidekicks. This dog-friendly cafe in Shrewsbury is known for its rich coffee, friendly staff, and homemade treats—some of which magically find their way into eager paws.
Location: 10 Mardol Head, Shrewsbury SY1 1HD, United Kingdom

Ginger & Co. 

A stylish café with top-tier coffee and a laid-back vibe. Four-legged friends are always welcome, with ample space to lounge while you sip your oat milk latte. The staff are also big fans of furry visitors and often slip them an extra treat!
Location: 30-31 Princess St, Shrewsbury SY1 1LW, United Kingdom

Annual dog events in Shrewsbury

Mark your calendars and grab those leashes – Shrewsbury's annual dog events are the talk of the town (and the bark of the park)! Here's a roundup of the most paw-some gatherings you and your furry friend won't want to miss:

Shrewsbury Dog Show

Ever wondered if your dog has what it takes to strut their stuff and maybe snag a trophy? The Shrewsbury Dog Show is the perfect stage! This event celebrates our four-legged companions with fun activities, doggy competitions, and expert master classes. And yes, the Mayor might just be there to hand out those coveted trophies!

Cost: Free

Date and Time: Annually in September (Specific dates vary; check local listings)

Location: Livesey House, 7 St Johns Hill, Shrewsbury, SY1 1JD

For more details, visit the Shrewsbury Town Council's event page.

Pet Rock Festival 

While not exclusively a dog event, the Pet Rock Festival is a haven for animal lovers. This festival boasts live music and stalls offering pet products, delicious food, and more.

Cost: Entry fee applies

Date and Time: Annually on the Sunday after Labor Day (Typically early September)

Location: Scandinavian Athletic Club (SAC) Park, 438 Lake Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545

More information can be found on the Town of Shrewsbury's calendar.

Spirit of Shrewsbury Fall Festival 

The Spirit of Shrewsbury Fall Festival is a beloved community event that warmly welcomes our furry friends. Highlights include a dog show, a parade, and stalls. It's a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the community and let your dog bask in the limelight.

Cost: Free

Date and Time: Annually in late September (Main events typically on the last weekend)

Location: Various locations across Shrewsbury, with main events at Oak Middle School, 45 Oak St, Shrewsbury, MA 01545

Details are available on the Spirit of Shrewsbury's official website.

The best dog-friendly pubs in Shrewsbury

Your dog has put up with your long workdays, your bad karaoke, and the occasional “bath time betrayal.” The least you can do? Take them out for a well-deserved pub visit. These dog-friendly pubs in Shrewsbury welcome pups with warm hearts, water bowls, and sometimes even a treat on the house.

The Wheatsheaf 

A proper pub with a warm, welcoming vibe, The Wheatsheaf is a favorite among locals (both two- and four-legged). With a spacious beer garden and staff who are always happy to dish out belly rubs, it’s the ideal place for a relaxed drink while your dog enjoys the social scene.

Location: 50 High St, Shrewsbury SY1 1ST, United Kingdom

The House of Grain 

If your pup enjoys a relaxed evening out, The House of Grain is worth a visit. Right by Darwin Centre, this craft beer venue is one of the most dog-friendly places in Shrewsbury. With a rotating selection of brews and a cozy atmosphere, it’s a great place to unwind – especially since the bartenders have been known to slip treats to well-behaved four-legged guests.

Location: 59A Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury SY1 1XJ, United Kingdom

Dog-friendly wineries in Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury might not be at the heart of wine country, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on a great glass of vino. These dog-friendly wine bars in Shrewsbury offer the perfect setting to sip and unwind while your four-legged friend relaxes near you.

Tanners Wines

If you love wine, you’ve probably heard of Tanners Wines – a legendary name in Shrewsbury. Their stylish and cozy Tanners Wine Bar welcomes well-behaved pets, making it a great choice for an afternoon tasting or a relaxed evening with a glass of red.

Location: 26 Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury SY1 1XD, United Kingdom

GlouGlou 

This trendy wine bar specializes in natural and organic wines, with a cozy atmosphere that welcomes both humans and hounds. GlouGlou has a relaxed vibe, making it a great place to unwind after a long day of exploring Shrewsbury.

Location: 17a Castle Gates, Shrewsbury SY1 2AD, United Kingdom

Tips for pet parents

Are you and your beloved pet local to Shrewsbury? Here are some extra dog-friendly tips to set you and your pooch up for some stress-free and fun exploring:

Join local dog groups & events

Get to know your local dog community (if you haven’t already) by joining local dog groups like dog walking meet-ups. Shrewsbury also boasts some fun dog events, such as the Shrewsbury Dog Show. Being in-the-know of your local dog community is a great way to connect with other pet owners and provide socialising opportunities for your pup.

Enjoy riverside & countryside walks

Shrewsbury is home to beautiful dog-friendly trails along the River Severn and in the surrounding countryside, perfect for daily walks or longer adventures with your furry buddy. Many local walking routes pass through farmland and nature reserves, so make sure to keep your dog on a leash near livestock and protected areas.

Scout out dog-friendly accommodation in Shrewsbury

If you and your pup are on vacation in Shrewsbury, there are numerous options for dog-friendly accommodation, from pet-friendly hotels to cozy cottages your pet companion will adore.

Find a reliable pet sitter

As a local to Shrewsbury, sometimes there are occasions when you need to go on vacation without your furry friend. Pets are happiest at home, and vets agree – so why not consider welcoming an in-home pet sitter to keep your home and pets safe while you're away? To find out more, click below:

Tips for pet sitters

Scored a pet sit in Shrewsbury, Shropshire? Lucky you! This medieval market town is packed with riverside walks, quirky independent shops, and historic charm—and you’ll have a four-legged local to show you around. But before settling into a dog-friendly café on Wyle Cop or strolling along the River Severn, here’s how to make sure your stay goes smoothly – for both you and your furry host.

Nail the “trust test” early

Dogs are natural detectives. When you arrive, let them sniff you out – literally. Keep things chill, offer a treat (or three), and use a calm voice. A peaceful intro sets the tone, especially in a quiet town like Shrewsbury where everything moves a little slower (and dogs love that!). First impressions matter, and the faster they decide you’re part of the pack, the smoother your stay will be. 

Map out your walkies like a pro

Don’t just wing it! Before the owner leaves, ask about the dog’s usual walking routes, favorite sniffing spots, and any places to avoid (like that one street with the scary garden gnome). Bonus points if you find a cozy pub with a dog-friendly corner for post-walk chill time—like The Loopy Shrew or The Boathouse.

Master the art of doggy downtime

Not every Shrewsbury sit will be go-go-go. Some pups prefer snoozing while you admire Tudor architecture out the window. Figure out if your pup is an energized bunny or a certified couch potato, and plan accordingly. If they love lounging, a comfy blanket and a few ear scratches will win you major points.

Useful resources

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