The new up-and-coming dog-friendly destination
Fri, October 26, 2018
The Causeway Coast and Glens is celebrating its growing reputation as a dog friendly holiday destination.
With an increasing choice of places to stay, things to do and eating establishments which welcome dog owners and their pets, the area’s hospitality sector is working hard to facilitate those who want to spend downtime with their dog.
The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Councillor Brenda Chivers said: “Our trade partners are responding to the needs of dog owners by providing the services they require to enjoy a break with their pet. We applaud their innovation which has helped to make the Causeway Coast and Glens a stand-out destination which is attracting more visitors than ever before.”
The area’s prominence in this sector was evident in the recent UK wide Dog Friendly Awards where two local businesses were among the finalists. Dog Friendly Tours, operated by Jo Crossley, was shortlisted in the ‘Days Out With Your Dog’ category while the Inn on the Coast in Portrush came second in the list of Best Places to Stay.
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Destination Manager Kerrie McGonigle said: “There is a definite upsurge in the need for dog friendly amenities across the Causeway Coast and Glens. Our providers have realised this and many are upgrading their services accordingly. It’s a niche market that is gaining momentum and this is obvious in the appearance of a host of new businesses, including dog friendly food tours and accommodation. Dog friendly policies are in place on many ferry crossings to the island of Ireland which means travelling to the area with your dog is becoming more and more accessible.”
A day out with Dog Friendly Tours takes dogs and their owners on a 6km tour of Portrush, stopping at a number of dog friendly eateries along the way where you get a chance to sample some of our renowned local produce.
The Inn on the Coast, situated in a stunning coastal location between Portstewart and Portrush has been ‘dog-friendly’ since 2012 and the demand for their pet friendly rooms has exceeded the owners’ expectations. Guests can dine with their dog in a designated section in the Pub Bistro, where you and your pooch can enjoy dinner together or live entertainment in the summer evenings. There are also special dining arrangements if you wish to bring your dog to breakfast in the morning.
Dog friendly accommodation is also available in The Marine Hotel in Ballycastle and The Fullerton Arms in Ballintoy. As the sector continues to grow, keep an eye out for a new Dog Friendly Map of Northern Ireland, due to launch in November, which will pinpoint dog friendly establishments across the Causeway Coast and Glens. Look out for the red and white beach umbrella symbols on the map marking great beaches to visit along with information about many dog friendly cafes in the area. These maps will be available in all Visitor Information Centres and other dog friendly establishments.
Fancy a doggie day out or short break away? Contact the Coleraine Visitor Information Centre to plan your visit to the area, where our team of dog-friendly experts will be happy to book your accommodation and advise you of the best places to enjoy with your dog.
We look forward to welcoming you to our dog-friendly corner of the world!
Keep an eye out on Causeway Coast and Glens’ social media channels for more dog friendly updates.
