PUB NAMED MOST DOG-FRIENDLY IN UK AS DOGS ARE ‘NOT JUST WELCOMED BUT CELEBRATED’

A pub in the New Forest has been crowned the UK’s most dog-friendly spot, thanks to its warm welcome not just for humans — but for their four-legged companions, too.

The Foresters Arms in Fordingbridge took the top title from Rover.com, the world’s largest network for pet care services. The win came after Rover’s “Great British Pub Crawl”, during which more than 110 pubs across the country were reviewed for their dog-friendliness.

Rover’s official Public House Officer, Luke James, led the tour and was particularly impressed by the Foresters Arms.

“Out of all the pubs we visited this summer, The Foresters Arms genuinely stood out,” he said. “Pups weren’t just welcomed — they were celebrated. With thoughtful touches and a truly inclusive atmosphere, it felt like a place you’d want to return to again and again. Our dog Yoshii absolutely loved it.”

What Makes It So Dog-Friendly?

The family-run pub won over the judges with its full suite of canine comforts: a dedicated dog menu, fresh water bowls, free treats and poo bags, a secure garden, blankets and beds for pups to relax in style.

Landlady Maddy Daniels, who runs the pub with her team, said the award is a huge honour.

“We’re over the moon to be named the most dog-friendly pub in the UK,” she said.

“Dogs are such a big part of our community, and we love making sure every guest — on two legs or four — feels completely at home. This award means the world to us, and we can’t wait to welcome even more wagging tails through the door.”

The pub also topped Rover’s rankings for the South East region.

Other notable dog-friendly pubs included the Jam Garden in Loughborough, and the Ferry Boat Inn in North Fambridge

Each pub was judged on several factors, including dog-friendly booking systems, accessibility and pet safety, facilities for dogs, staff friendliness and overall atmosphere.

Dogs Make the Pub Better — Literally

Rover’s research found that nearly a third (30%) of dog owners would be happy to pay an extra £4.26 per pint if it meant their dog could join them at the pub.

Other findings:

45% of owners said they’d go out more often if pubs welcomed dogs

34% believe their dogs enjoy the pub just as much as they do

61% said a dog at the pub has sparked a conversation with a stranger

78% feel dogs improve the overall vibe

65% even prefer dogs to children in pub settings

Yet, despite the growing demand, 31% of dog owners still find it difficult to locate truly dog-friendly pubs.

The Foresters Arms, however, has clearly set the bar — or bowl — high.