THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO A DOG-FRIENDLY HOLIDAY IN WILTSHIRE
Planning your next retreat, but can't bear to leave your four-legged friend behind? At Riverbarn, we believe a getaway is for the whole family. We know that finding a truly dog-friendly place to stay isn't just about a room - it's about walks from the doorstep, welcoming spaces for muddy paws, and knowing the best local spots where your dog is as welcome as you are.
That's why we've put together our guide to the best tail-wagging adventures, all just a short sniff from your cost, dog-friendly room at Riverbarn.
From Your Doorstep: The Fonthill Estate
(Distance from Riverbarn: Approx. 25-30 minute drive)
You don't even need to get in the car. Riverbarn is nestled within the breathtaking 10,000-acre Fonthill Estate, offering some of the most beautiful dog walks in Wiltshire right from our door.
The most popular route is the stunning walk around Fonthill Lake. This tranquil, tree-lined path is a dog's paradise, with plenty of new smells and (on-lead) wildlife to see. It's the perfect way to start your morning or wind down in the evening.
Riverbarn Tip: Let your dog have a good run, then come back and refuel. Our cafe is dog-friendly, so you can enjoy a coffee or a full Wiltshire breakfast with your best friend right at your feet.
The World-Famous Garden: Stourhead (National Trust)
(Distance from Riverbarn: Approx. 20-25 minute drive)
Yes, one of the world's most famous landscape gardens is also a "three pawprint" rated, dog-friendly destination! Stourhead welcomes dogs on short, fixed leads everywhere across the garden and wider estate, all year round.
You and your pup can explore the magical lakeside path, cross the Palladian bridge, and discover hidden grottos and temples. There are water bowls at the visitor reception and restaurant courtyard, and the wider 2,650-acre estate has miles of woodland trails for a more energetic walk.
A World-Famous Garden (With Room to Run): Stourhead
(Distance from Riverbarn: Approx. 20-25 minute drive)
Don't let the words "landscape garden" fool you - kids love Stourhead. This National Trust masterpiece is a magical world of temples, bridges, and hidden grottos, all set around a magnificent lake. It's the perfect place for a game of hide-and-seek or a '50 things to do' adventure. The paths are great for little legs, and there’s a fantastic café and farm shop.
Riverbarn Tip: Stourhead is beautiful in all weather. A crisp autumn walk or a spring bloom is just as magical. And yes, dogs are welcome in the gardens!
The Fairytale Ruin: Old Wardour Castle (English Heritage)
(Distance from Riverbarn: Approx. 10-15 minute drive)
For a day of history and sniffing, Old Wardour Castle is a fantastic, close-by adventure. Dogs on leads are welcome to explore the stunning 14th-century castle ruins, set peacefully beside a lake.
It’s the perfect place to let them explore the grassy grounds, and the ruin's unique hexagonal shape is a brilliant backdrop for a photo with your dog. English Heritage provides water bowls at the entrance, making it a truly easy and welcoming visit.
The Big Off-Lead Run: Grovely Wood, Wilton
(Distance from Riverbarn: Approx. 20 minute drive)
If your dog needs to stretch their legs and have a proper off-lead run, Grovely Wood is a fantastic local secret. As one of the largest woodlands in Wiltshire, it has miles of wide, open tracks and trails where your dog can safely run, explore, and play.
It’s a beautiful, ancient woodland that is a favourite with local dog walkers. Pack a flask and some treats, and spend a few hours enjoying the peace of the forest.
The Perfect Pint (and Meal) With Your Pup
After a long day of walking, there's nothing better than a delicious meal and a drink, and you shouldn't have to leave your dog in the car (or the room) to do it.
Right Here at Riverbarn: The best part of staying with us? You're already at one of the best dog-friendly dining spots in the area. Our cafe proudly welcomes well-behaved dogs, so you can relax and enjoy a fabulous, locally-sourced dinner, knowing your dog is settled right beside you.
A Pub Walk Away: If you fancy a change of scenery, the nearby village of Tisbury (a short drive) or a longer cross-country walk away) is famously dog-friendly. Pubs like The Beckford Arms, on the edge of the estate, are renowned for their muddy-boots-and-paws-welcome attitude.