Dog-friendly spots in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire
5 March 2025
If you're planning a trip to Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire in 2025, don't leave your four legged friend at home! The region is filled with a range of dog-friendly options, from cosy eateries and scenic walking routes to welcoming accommodation. While we've narrowed down some of our top places to eat, play, and stay this is just a snippet of the many dog-friendly gems waiting to be discovered across the region.
Where to eat
The Boat Inn
A delightful riverside inn located in the heart of Royal Deeside, The Boat Inn in Aboyne is the perfect place to enjoy freshly prepared, locally sourced dishes while man's best friend tucks into the doggy bar.
BrewDog
Now the clue is somewhat in the title for this one. BrewDog is known for its love of dogs and from the looks of it the pups seem to love it too! In Aberdeen city, you can choose between three locations; the flagship venue at the Gallowgate, BrewDog Castlegate, or BrewDog Union Square. Beyond the city, you'll find BrewDog Inverurie and the DogTap restaurant at the BrewDog Brewery in Ellon.
Foodstory
This popular restaurant serves up some of the best vegetarian food in town. As well as encouraging visitors to eat green, Foodstory welcomes furry friends too. Their coffee hut at Aberdeen Beach sees hundreds of doggy visitors who often stop by for some cuddles.
The Craftsman Company
Independent coffee and ale house, The Craftsman Company is home to an array of craft beer, gin and coffees but it’s often filled with adorable pups too. If you're a dog lover but don't have your own dog, then this is the place to be!
The Cock and Bull
North of Aberdeen, head to an intimate inn, The Cock and Bull in Balmedie serves up hearty local produce in lovely surroundings. It’s also frequented from adorable dogs like Bell *cue awws*.
Where to play
City walks
There’s plenty of great places to go dog walking in Aberdeen. In the city centre try a beautiful park and garden. This playful wee chap loves Duthie Park. Hazlehead Park, Seaton Park and Victoria Park are also great suggestions at this time of year before the arrival of spring.
Countryside walks
Aberdeenshire is home to a large portion of the Cairngorms National Park and with all that countryside there’s plenty of walks to choose from. Loch Muick and Lochnagar are popular spots for walkers. North of Aberdeen, Aden Country Park and Haddo House are fantastic options for stretching your legs and exploring the tranquil landscape whilst Bennachie is the perfect route for adventure seekers! Further south Mount Keen is Scotland’s most easterly Munro and is certain to tire out your four-legged friends (and you too).
Coastal walks
On bright days, nothing feels more summery than a trip to the coast. Aberdeen Beach is a popular spot year round thanks to it’s golden sands and city centre location. Balmedie Beach's towering tunes are great fun for the whole family as is St Cyrus National Nature Reserve.
Historic walks
Most of our castles don’t permit access to pets however they do allow pups to admire the grand buildings from the outside, a great way to merge exercise with some history and culture. Old Aberdeen and Fittie are also idyllic places to go for a walk in the city centre.
Where to stay
Ballater Caravan Park
Many of our caravan and camping sites are dog-friendly. Ballater Caravan Park situated near the foot of Craiggendarroch Hill is a wonderful spot for those hoping to enjoy some time in the great outdoors on their trip. Slightly further afield Loch Muick and popular Munros including Lochnagar and Ben Macdui are within a short driving distance.
Meldrum House
Stay in the breath-takingly historic Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course. Tucked away in the picturesque Aberdeenshire countryside, the 13th century manor house sits in 240 acres, providing plenty of room for when the zoomies kick in! On arrival, waiting for your pooch will be a gorgeous Stocky & Dee bed, a water bowl and a wrapped bag of doggy biscuits specially for them. The team at Meldrum House have also pulled together a ‘Ruff Guide’ on how to make the most of your stay with your furry pal on the estate.
Dalriada Luxury Lodges
Dalriada Luxury Lodges overlooks the spectacular scenery offered by Stonehaven and Dunnottar Castle in the distance. Dalriada open their doors to well behaved puppies and owners because they know that no holiday is complete without your little friends. Take a walk to the town centre and enjoy a well earned treat at The Bay Fish and Chips or Aunty Betty’s.
Logie Newton Lodges
Logie Newton Lodges offers scenic farm tracks for exploration, a secure off-lead area, and special doggy hampers to ensure your pet's comfort during your stay! Complete with water and food bowls, throws, towels, treats, poo bags, and dog shampoo and spray, you have everything you need for a wonderful weekend with your pooch.
With so many dog-friendly options available throughout Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire what are you waiting for? Turn your 2025 trip into an unforgettable one with your furry pal!
Don't forget to tag us in your PAWesome adventures @VisitABDN or by using our hashtags #VisitABDN or #BeautifulABDN for your chance (and your pup) to be featured on our social channels.