Paws, Play & Panoramas: Taking Your Dog on Holiday to the Wye Valley in a Group House
Why the Wye Valley?
First up – location. The Wye Valley straddles the border between England and Wales, offering stunning landscapes, historic market towns, and miles of glorious walking trails. It’s an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which means everything looks like a postcard. But it's not just pretty – it’s perfectly practical for dog-friendly travel.
Here’s why:
- Walking heaven: From riverside strolls along the Wye to forest adventures in the Forest of Dean, the area is packed with walkies options.
- Dog-friendly attractions: Many local pubs, cafes and even castles are dog-friendly. Tintern Abbey is a great stop for scenic sniffs.
- Space to breathe: Unlike some crowded tourist spots, the Wye Valley still feels peaceful and unspoilt – perfect for dogs who prefer rabbits to rollercoasters.
The Joy of Group Stays (with Dogs)
Big group holidays are brilliant – whether it’s a family reunion, a birthday bash or a get-together with mates. But throw a couple of dogs into the mix and things can get... interesting. That’s why choosing the right holiday house is key.
Luckily, BHHL have a lovely selection of large group accommodation the Wye Valley that are both stylish and dog-friendly. Think roaring fires, farmhouse kitchens, huge gardens, and maybe even a hot tub for the humans.
Look out for:
- Enclosed gardens: Essential for off-lead zoomies (and peace of mind).
- Tiled or wooden floors: Much easier to clean up after muddy paws.
- Extra touches: Dog beds, bowls, treats and even a dog-washing station are always a win.
- Flexible sleeping arrangements: Some group houses even allow dogs to sleep in the bedrooms, if that’s their vibe.
Tip: Always double check the dog policy before you book – some places welcome one or two dogs, others are happy with a whole pack.
What to Pack for Your Pooch
Packing for a dog-friendly holiday is a little different to packing for humans. Here's a handy checklist to avoid any “ruff” moments:
- Lead & harness – plus a spare, just in case.
- Dog bed or blanket – smells of home = happy dog.
- Food & bowls – plus any treats or meds.
- Poo bags – the countryside code still applies!
- Towel for drying muddy paws – or two, if your dog loves a swim.
- Toys or chews – helps them settle in a new place.
- Vaccination & ID info – just in case of emergencies.
Walks, Woofs and Wows: What to Do
The best part of taking your dog to the Wye Valley? The walks. Honestly, the area is bursting with trails that’ll have tails wagging for days. A few local highlights include:
- Symonds Yat Rock – epic views over the valley and great woodland trails. There’s even a pub at the bottom.
- Tintern Abbey to Brockweir – a gorgeous riverside walk with ruins, reflections and a dog-friendly tearoom at the end.
- The Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail – art meets adventure in this off-lead wonderland.
- Goodrich Castle – dogs are welcome on leads, and the surrounding paths are perfect for exploring.
Many local pubs and cafes roll out the red carpet for dogs. Look for water bowls outside, or the golden phrase: "dogs welcome."
Top Tips for Group Holidays with Dogs
Let’s be honest – dogs and big groups can be a chaotic combo. But with a bit of planning, it can be a total dream. Here are some quick tips:
- Set some ground rules – like where the dogs are allowed (sofa? bedrooms?) and who’s on walk duty.
- Keep routines – mealtimes, bedtimes and usual habits help dogs settle in.
- Bring a crate if needed – especially if your dog likes their own quiet corner.
- Watch out for food – in a big group, there’s always someone dropping snacks. Keep toxic foods out of reach!
- Have a dog-free zone – for guests who aren’t as dog-mad as you are (they exist, apparently).
Rainy Day? No Problem.
Let’s face it – British holidays don’t always mean sunshine. But don’t worry, your dog can still enjoy their hols. Here are a few rainy-day ideas:
- Indoor enrichment – puzzle toys, snuffle mats or a good game of hide-and-seek.
- Cuddle up by the fire – most dogs won’t say no to a nap and a tummy rub.
- Visit a local dog-friendly café – coffee and cake for you, biscuits and belly rubs for them.
A Final Woof
Taking your dog on holiday to the Wye Valley in a group holiday house is a brilliant way to combine beautiful scenery, great company, and happy hounds. With a bit of prep and the right accommodation, it can be stress-free, fun-packed, and full of tail wags.
So next time you’re planning a group escape, don’t leave the dog behind – bring them along for the ride. After all, holidays are better when everyone’s included – especially the ones with paws.
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Holly Tree House
Prices from £1,995.00
Charming villa above Symonds Yat, sleeping 22 in 9 bedrooms overlooking River Wye. Two lounges, a large dining room and patio plus covered, outdoor Hot Tub and Games Room. Short walk to 3 pubs (with excellent food), river ferry, and flat riverside circular walk - super pet-friendly. Loads of activities inc canoes and paddle boards. verty safe and secure, no traffic. Ideal multi generation holiday cottage. Holly Tree House provides accommodation in an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
- 9 bedrooms sleeping 12 - 22
- 8 Bath and Shower/Loos
- Covered Hot Tub
- Pet Friendly
- 3 Pub/Restaurants walkable
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The Anchor
Prices from £2,150.00
Set in the heart of Lydbrook in the Forest of Dean and previously know as The Anchor Inn, this cosy village pub, which dates back to the 15th century, is now a charmingly converted holiday cottage sleeping 20 in 7/8 ensuite bedrooms. Lovely Games Room and covered Hot Tub. Enclosed rear garden, pet friendly. Walk to village pubs, shop and chippie! Easy access to riverside. With Superfast Broadband and full Sky Film and Sports Pack it's ideal for work and leisure.
- 7/8 ensuite bedrooms sleep 22
- G/F room, sofa bed & bathroom
- Dogs and other pets welcome
- Covered Hot Tub
- Dine 20 round one table
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River Wye Lodge
Prices from £3,150.00
Converted Coaching Inn on the banks of the River Wye, with park and canoe launch - short walk to village shop, pub, Indian takeaway and fish and chip shop. Sleeps 26 in 12 bedrooms, 10 having glorious views of the River Wye. Accessibility ramp to the front door and the ground floor houses a wheelchair friendly twin room with an en-suite wet room. Huge dining room and lounge, 2 connected kitchens, playground outside. Games Room. Pet friendly.
- 12 Bedrooms sleeping 26
- Covered Hot Tub
- Games Room
- Dine 26 round one table
- Twin disabled bedroom wet room en suite
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Bromsash House
Prices from £2,600.00
Bromsash House is a grand Manor house boasting six acres of land. 5 bedrooms in the main house sleep 12 adults . There is a Lodge with 3 double bedrooms sleeping a further 6 and Games Room.. The gardens are huge and boast a huge array of unusual trees, fruit trees, rose bushes, and magnolias, creating perfect areas in which to play and explore. Patio with lovely furniture and Hot Tub. Bromsash House sleeps 18 in total.
- 1 Hot Tub
- 2 Pets Welcome
- Max sleepers 18
- Linen Provided
- Sky TV
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Wye Rapids House
Prices from £2,750.00
13 bedroom (11 ensuite) converted hotel overlooking the River Wye rapids at Symonds Yat. Large dining room , bar, lounge, patio, riverside garden plus outdoor hot tub (that can be hired) and games room. Plenty of room to relax and enjoy the sights and sound of nature all around you. An ideal pet-friendly cottage for large group holidays. With flat walks and 3 nearby pubs and restaurants, Wye Rapids provides an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life for up to 30 guests (26 adults max plus 4 children)
- 11 ensuite Bedrooms plus family room and shared bathroom sleeps 26 adults plus 4 children
- Hot tub hire available
- All dine together
- Fully commercial kitchen
- Offroad parking for 16 cars
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The Manor on the Monnow
Prices from £2,950.00
Majestic Manor House sleeping 24 in 11 bedrooms, huge lounge and dining room. Big kitchen and separate breakfast room. Games room and covered Hot Tub in 2 acre safe and private grounds. On the banks of the River Monnow, fishing from garden and wild swimming a very short walk. 10 minute flat stroll into town, the Manor is perfect for town and country group self catering in the picturesque border town of Monmouth. Pet friendly.
- Games Room and Hot Tub
- Fishing from riverbank
- Wild swimming 100 yards
- Galleried Hall with woodburner
- 11 Bedrooms, 9 Bathrooms
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Forest House
Prices from £2,750.00
This 11 ensuite bedroom converted 4* Hotel sleeps up to 25 in the centre of Coleford, the heart of the Forest of Dean - Hot Tub, 2 Lounges, Games Room with pool table, Large dining room, fantastic kitchen. Off road walks and cycling from door. Pet friendly. Short walk to shops, pubs, restaurants. A perfect location for sampling the huge array of activities and attractions in the Forest of Dean.
- 11 Ensuite bedrooms sleeping 25
- Covered Hot Tub
- Games Room with Pool Table
- All Dine Together
- Pet Friendly for 2 dogs
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Fairlea Grange
Prices from £1,995.00
This striking gothic townhouse in the heart of Abergavenny is full of character and inspired Alfred Hitchcock's classic movie The Lady Vanishes. It was the childhood home of Ethel Lina White who wrote the original novel. If you want your stay to evoke a dramatic atmosphere this is the holiday home for you! 9 bedrooms, sleeping up to 24 people with 2 lounges , 2 kitchens , games Room, Hot Tub, enclosed garden in walking distance of town centre and Station. Pet friendly.
- 9 bedrooms, 7 ensuites
- Pets Welcome
- Games Room
- Covered Hot Tub
- Near Brecon Beacons
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High Cloud Farm and Barn
Prices from £2,200.00
The secluded hilltop retreat of explorer, adventurer, and author Christina Dodwell, High Cloud Farm, a perfect location for 3 generation celebrations, with maps, books, pictures and artefacts in evidence everywhere. This remote rural cottage on the Wales borders offers total privacy as a large party house or holiday retreat. Hot tub and heated Swimming Pool (May till October). farmhouse sleeps 12 and Barn sleeps 12. Everyone can dine together in the Barn. 3 Kitchens, Games Room, pet friendly.
- Dining table seats 24
- 10 bedrooms sleeps 24
- Large games room
- Heated outdoor swimming pool
- Covered hot tub
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Pencraig Court
Prices from £3,250.00
Classic country house sleeping 36 in 11 bedrooms midway between Monmouth and Ross on Wye overlooking the river. Pet friendly, stunning rooms, large grounds, games room. On site 3 bed cottage sleeping a further 8 available. Large grounds and gardens and a drive with an extensive parking area, totalling 3.6 Acres. Hot tub hire available.
- 11 Ensuite Bedrooms sleeping 36
- Attached 3 Bed cottage sleeping 8
- Games Rooms with Table Football and Pool table
- Hot tub Hire available
- Pet Friendly
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Symonds Yat Lodge
Prices from £3,950.00
A comfortable 25 bedroom (all ensuite) converted guest accommodation situated on the banks for the River Wye. Huge dining room, lounge,bar, games / party room and mature gardend. With flat walks from the door Symonds Yat Lodge is the perfect place for celebrations and large group holidays. Pet friendly, parking. Sleeps 50 guests. Prices are based on 30 guests in 15 bedrooms with 10 extra bedrooms available at an additional charge.
- 25 ensuite Bedrooms
- All dine together in huge dining room
- Licensed for Weddings - for up to 100 guests
- Pet friendly
- Country pub within 5 minute walk
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Carefree Cottage
Carefree Cottage is a pretty 3 bedroom cottage sleeping 8 midway between Ross on Wye and Monmouth
