There’s nothing better than finding out a town is super dog-friendly! We love exploring new places with our four-legged friends, whether we’re walking by the sea in Brighton, or taking in the history in Cambridge, and we enjoy sharing the best places to take your dog for a day out while you’re visiting. We’ve stayed in Cirencester multiple times, as we’re drawn back time and time again by the blend of modern amenities with characterful Cotswold stone buildings, and everywhere is so welcoming to dogs it makes it easy to enjoy a visit without having to leave your dogs at home. Here we’re sharing how to spend a day in Cirencester with a dog, from dog-friendly shops and where to eat, to the best places for walkies, and top dog-friendly accommodation for a longer trip.
Table of Contents
Getting here and getting around
As Cirencester is the largest town in the Cotswolds, it’s well connected to surrounding towns via the Gloucestershire County Council bus network. You can reach Cirencester in around an hour by bus from Cheltenham, Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucester and Stroud, while Bibury is only 20 minutes by bus to the town centre. You can find up-to-date maps of the bus networks, including a Cirencester town bus map, on the Gloucestershire County Council website here. Dogs are welcome on all bus services into Cirencester, though each states that this is at the discretion of the driver, for example if the bus is overcrowded and would be unsafe for your dog, they may suggest you wait for the next service.
For those arriving by car, there are several options for central car parking. We recommend parking at either Abbey Grounds (93 spaces, What3Words: ///owners.applies.perfectly), Waterloo (234 spaces, What3Words: ///fanfare.neutron.stooping) or Old Station (148 spaces, What3Words: ///billiard.anchovies.lots). We favour Abbey Grounds for its proximity to the park – a wide open space for dogs to run off some steam – though any of these are great options for exploring the centre of town. Each is run by the council, meaning the charges are the same for each car park and you can choose to stay between 1-10 hours.
Once you’re in Cirencester the easiest way to get around is on foot, as the town itself is walkable from end to end in a short time, and there are well-maintained pavements and footpaths throughout. Walking the town also gives you the opportunity to stumble upon quiet, characterful streets lined with Cotswold stone buildings and, as the tower of St. John Baptist Church is visible from most places in town, it’s difficult to lose your bearings!
Walks and parks
Starting in the very centre of Cirencester, Abbey Grounds Park is an open, grassy area where dogs can roam off lead. There are lots of poo bins for dog waste, and benches where you can sit and watch your dogs playing with other four-legged friends passing through the park. On sunny days, you’ll find a local ice cream van parked up on the South-West side of the park by the ruins of the Augustinian Abbey of St Mary.
At the North-East end of Abbey Grounds, there is a section of path along the furthest side of Abbey lake where dogs must be kept on lead due to the presence of resident ducks and swans. If you have children with you, there is a feeding station here where you can pay for seeds to give the birds, as well as a large playground (though dogs are not permitted to enter the playground).
The jewel in the crown of this picturesque town, Cirencester Park is a Grade I listed, 3000 acre historic parkland with beautiful follies and vistas to explore. There are many sections where dogs are permitted to roam off lead, and we love walking dogs across the estate as there are many different pathways to take, depending on how much time you have, or how the weather’s looking! We’ve plotted a loop walking route that takes you through town and into the Park, which you can view and download here. If you’re looking to head further into the Park, you’ll find a map of where dogs can go off lead on the Bathurst Estate here.
The easiest way to get into Cirencester Park is to head through the Cecily Hill Gates, which are under 10 minutes’ walk from the central car parks we’ve mentioned above. In recent years a fee has been introduced to enter the Park, so you’ll need to arrive via the Cecily Hill Gates to buy a day pass at the kiosk – find up-to-date prices here.
Once inside, you’re greeted with a spectacular view up the long, straight path that cuts through the centre of the park, and you can choose which pathway to follow. Continuing along the main path away from the centre of town, you’ll spot the Commemorative Coronation carving dedicated to the crowning of King Charles III as well as tall trees lining the grass by the path. Dogs are free to walk off lead here, though must be kept under close control so as not to disturb other visitors to the park. We often find ourselves chatting to locals in this area of the park while our dogs make friends with theirs! Off the path there are woodland tracks to explore that are perfect for finding shade on warmer days, and you’ll discover landmarks such as the Hexagon – a Grade II listed classical covered seat that was designed by the first Earl Bathurst.
Heading away from the main thoroughfare, there are permissive paths across the Bathurst Estate where dogs can roam off lead for miles, and you’ll be treated with views down towards Stratton, and spot the tower of St. John Baptist Church as you head back towards the centre of town.
A short 20 minute walk from the centre of Cirencester, nestled between quiet, residential roads, there is an open field on the River Churn that’s perfect for letting dogs cool off on a warm, sunny day. In the Summer, you’ll find locals bring their dogs here to splash in the cool river while they sit and picnic on the grassy banks. From the centre of town, head onto Abbey Way, cross over and follow Bowling Green Lane until you reach Bowling Green Farm Cottages, where you’ll find a narrow footpath running in front of the cottages that leads out onto the field. What3Words for the cottages, and the beginning of the footpath: ///caller.pioneered.dorms
Once you’ve visited the parks and let your dogs have a good run, we highly recommend simply strolling through the town centre to take in the character of this beautiful Cotswolds town. It feels like there’s something to discover around every corner – peaceful residential streets lined with Cotswold stone houses, signs pointing to the open-air swimming pool carved into the stonework on old buildings, painted hare sculptures that make up part of the Cotswold Hare Trail, as well as an abundance of flora with blooming magnolia trees in Spring, window planters full of tulips, and hanging baskets bursting with a rainbow of colour.
After all that walking, and as you make your way back towards the town centre, what better way to refuel than with a light bite to eat…
Where to eat
With the town being so welcoming to dogs, you’ll find there’s an abundance of dog-friendly cafes, pubs and restaurants in Cirencester. Here are just a few of our favourites:
The Golden Cross. Situated on Black Jack Street, The Golden Cross is a very dog-friendly pub serving mouth-wateringly good food, including homemade pizzas and classic roast dinners – they’ve even won awards for their Yorkshire puddings! You can choose to sit inside, or outside at the front of the pub where you can people-watch with a view of St. John Baptist Church down the street, plus there’s a garden terrace area to the rear for sunny days. There are dog treats available for your pups and dog water bowls.
Jacks. Just two doors down from The Golden Cross, Jacks cafe is a dog-friendly brunch stop specialising in light bites, coffee and baked treats. All the dishes are beautifully presented, from their selection of Croffles (crispy waffle-pressed croissants!) to their iced strawberry vanilla matcha drinks, and you and your dogs are welcome to dine inside or out the back of the cafe in the light and airy courtyard.
Luxe Cafe. One for those who love an Instagrammable moment – the pink exterior of Luxe is difficult to miss! As you make your way into quaint Swan Yard, you’ll spot the pink flags and floral displays around the windows – a colour scheme that continues inside. Dogs are welcome to join you inside or at the outdoor seating at the front of the cafe, both of which are fabulous opportunities for photos. Their menu features seasonal specials, presented in an equally picture-perfect fashion, with treats like Jammy Dodger blondies and Terry’s chocolate orange rocky road, as well as Gloucester Old Spot sausage rolls and Lotus biscoff milkshakes. There’s even Puppacinos for dogs so your four-legged friends can treat themselves too!
The Bear Inn. A true dog-friendly pub, situated on the corner of Dyer Street, The Bear Inn is just a stone’s throw from the market square in the centre of Cirencester. The Inn dates back to the 18th century, with traditional features and cosy furnishings inside, plus a covered, heated beer garden that catches the sun all day long. The menu celebrates classic British pub food and locally sourced ingredients, with a wide range of craft beer, real ales and ciders from their award-winning Butcombe Brewery. Dogs are welcome inside and out, and there’s even a Canine Menu featuring a selection of treats available to purchase for your dogs, with notes on each to tailor the perfect treat to your dog’s diet and age. You’ll receive a warm, dog-friendly welcome if you choose to dine here.
Shopping
Most shops in Cirencester allow dogs inside, barring shops like supermarkets, with stickers in the windows and front doors letting dog owners know they can bring their pups inside. However, it’s always best to check with shop staff if you’re unsure. There are quite a few dog and pet shops in Cirencester should you need to pick up supplies for your time in the town, each with friendly staff who are happy to help.
DOG by Just for Pets. Situated centrally behind the Brewery car park you’ll find this real Aladdin’s cave of delights. DOG is absolutely crammed full of everything you could ever need to keep your dogs happy during your trip to Cirencester. Enticing your four-legged friends into the shop is the Doodles Deli range outside – natural treats in a pick n mix format, or there are pre-filled deli boxes to select your dogs’ favourites! When we took Labrador Pepper to DOG, she found it very difficult to choose!! Inside, the shop also stocks kibble and wet food brands, with a focus on dog wellbeing and happiness – you won’t find any rawhide or pet corrector sprays here. There’s a boutique full of clothing, accessories and toys from popular brands, as well as a variety of leads and harnesses. Each member of staff is trained in harness fitting and are on hand for nutrition or training advice. You’re sure to come away with a few doggy mementoes from your visit here!
My Best Friend. Tucked away in the Woolmarket – a shopping street near to Waterloo car park – My Best Friend has a small shop area where you’ll find all the doggy essentials you might need. There’s premium raw dog food and supplements, as well as natural dog treats, plus poo bags and enrichment toys, collars and leads. If your dog is in need of some pampering, the on-site salon offers styling and grooming, plus tooth brushing and even puppy pamper sessions to help young dogs get used to being in a salon environment. The team are friendly and accommodating to dogs of all breeds and sizes, so it’s a great place to pop in and pamper your pooch with a salon session or just pick up a few treats.
Toomers. Just down from the Market Place, Toomers is a sixth-generation, family run business. Their garden and pet centre on Dyer Street stocks an astounding range of pet foods, treats, accessories, toys, grooming products and more! It’s perfectly situated for popping in and picking up essentials if you’re in the centre of town.
Pets at Home. If you can’t find what you’re looking for in Cirencester’s independent stores, on the outskirts of town there’s a large Pets at Home on the industrial estate, around 20 minutes walk from the town centre. This large store stocks all the usual pet products you’ll find at any of its chain stores, plus medicines, consultations, free click and collect shopping in as little as an hour, and a range of grooming services from their friendly staff.
Where to stay
If you’re looking to spend more than one day exploring Cirencester with your dog, there are plenty of dog-friendly accommodation options in and around the town. Here are just a few of our top picks:
The Corinium Hotel. Situated on one of Cirencester’s oldest streets, The Corinium dates back to the 16th century and has 15 individual bedrooms making it the perfect setting for a peaceful, dog-friendly stay. Dogs are warmly welcomed by the kind staff, and are permitted everywhere in the hotel other than the restaurant, however you can bring your dogs into the cosy bar area. There’s free parking available on site, and the hotel is situated just 5 minutes walk from Abbey Grounds Park, so you can easily get out and let your dogs stretch their legs. Pet-friendly rooms are available at a cost of £10/night, and each room has its own individual character, full of Cotswolds charm. Find out more about The Corinium and book your stay here.
54 Gloucester Street. For those who prefer self-accommodation, this 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom townhouse on Gloucester Street is perfect as a base for a group of friends or family to explore the town. Dogs are welcome throughout the property at no extra cost, with an enclosed, private garden for dogs to enjoy. The house is quite unassuming from the front of the property, however the fresh, modern decor inside is breathtaking and everything has been thought of for a relaxing and stress-free stay. There’s a fully equipped kitchen for preparing meals, and a washing machine should you need to freshen up clothes or blankets for your four-legged friends! An off-street parking space is provided at no extra cost, though you can walk along the quiet street into the town centre in 6 minutes, or to the Cecily Hill Gates entrance of Cirencester Park in 8 minutes. Find out more about 54 Gloucester Street and book your stay here.
The Eliot Arms. In South Cerney, a village less than 10 minutes drive from the centre of Cirencester, you’ll find The Eliot Arms – a traditional, dog-friendly pub and guesthouse. Situated on a quiet road, dogs are welcome to stay, and to join you in the pub downstairs with cosy seating and an open fire. The staff are very friendly with dogs and you may find the chef will even cook up a sausage for your four-legged friends for breakfast! Opposite the pub is an aptly-named lane called Bow Wow, which makes for a characterful dog walk alongside a stream, passing stunning Cotswold stone houses along the way. There is a £10/night charge for dogs to stay, though water bowls and other goodies for dogs are provided in the rooms. Find out more about The Eliot Arms and book your stay here.
The Fleece. Centrally situated on Market Place right in the centre of Cirencester, The Fleece is a 300-year old, Grade II listed building with traditional features and log fires. There’s a selection of dog-friendly rooms, with a charge of £20/room, and beds, water bowls and a welcome pack for your dogs are provided. Dogs are permitted in the bar area, which serves international dishes cooked with local ingredients, plus an extensive dog treat menu for your four-legged friends! There are blankets and water bowls available here too – The Fleece truly thinks of everything your dogs could need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. There are picturesque views of St. John Baptist Church from the windows in some street-facing rooms – you can’t get any closer to the centre of the town! Find out more about The Fleece and book your stay here.
Warrens Gorse House, East Wing. Another fabulous choice for those looking for self-accommodation, Warrens Gorse House is situated on the outskirts of Cirencester, just a short 7 minute drive to the centre of town. The spacious converted apartment in the East Wing has 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, with dogs welcome anywhere throughout the property at no extra charge. The hosts provide dog treats, bowls and beds for doggy guests, and there’s a fully-equipped kitchen for preparing meals. Free on-site parking is included, the enormous private garden provides plenty of space for dogs to run around, and you’ll love the orchard views and outdoor seating area from which to enjoy them. A real dog-friendly stay in the centre of the Cotswolds, perfectly blending modern conveniences with stately manor charm. Find out more about Warrens Gorse House and book your stay here.
Find more dog-friendly accommodation in and around Cirencester here.
While you’re in the area
Whether you visit for a day or a week, here are a few dog-friendly days out to enjoy in and around Cirencester:
The Cotswold Show and Food Festival. Running over 2 days every Summer, The Cotswold Show takes place throughout 100 acres in beautiful Cirencester Park. Every year The Cotswold Show draws tens of thousands of visitors, making it one of the most popular events in Cirencester! There’s something for the whole family including a variety of events in the main arenas, a food hall, children’s activities and over 200 shopping stalls.
For dog owners, there are so many fantastic activities and demonstrations to enjoy, with lots of opportunities to involve your dogs in the fun! The Waggy Tails Fun Dog Show team holds 20 classes on each day of the Show, with all the first places in each category put forward to the ‘Best in Show’ class. There’s Terrier Racing, where Terrier owners enter their dog into a lure-chasing event with a tournament culminating in finals. Once the Terrier race is finished, the event is open to dogs of any breed. The Dog Agility Arena is a returning favourite, where you can watch dogs tackle jumps, tunnels, and weave poles, or have a go yourself with your own furry friend! Working dogs are also catered for with gun dog scurries, with the opportunity for your dog to win a perpetual trophy for the fastest combined time over 4 disciplines. There’s so much for you and your dogs to get involved with over the 2 fun-packed days! Find out this year’s dates and book your tickets here.
DogFest presents the Agria Dog Walk. Also taking place in Cirencester Park, this is a dog walk with a difference! Choose from a 2km, 5km or 10km route, with various activities along the way and a prize for finishers. For every dog that walks at the event, Agria will donate £5 to be shared among their Agria Dog Walk rehoming partners, supporting dogs in UK rescues on their journeys to their forever homes. The event is open all dog breeds and ages, and to make the day enjoyable for all four-legged friends, you can select a walk wave that suits you and your dog. After the walk, you’ll find the event village where you and your dog can enter the Fun Dog Show, with categories such as Best Rescue, Waggiest Tail and Golden Oldie. A fantastic way to get outside with your dogs, while raising money for dogs in need. Find out more and book your tickets here.
Cotswold Wildlife Park. Half an hour from Cirencester, just south of Burford, Cotswold Wildlife Park is one of the UK’s only dog-friendly zoos! Spread over 160 acres of landscaped parkland and gardens, and with over 260 different species of animals, the Park is a fantastic day out for all the family without needing to leave your dogs at home. Dogs must be kept on lead and are not permitted in the gift shop or restaurant, though there is ample outdoor seating and grass picnic areas for you to enjoy a spot of lunch with your dogs by your side – we chose to enjoy our meal overlooking the rhino enclosure! Your dogs will love being included in this fantastic day out, spotting all kinds of animals from camels and giraffes to tortoises and meerkats! Find out more and book your tickets here.
Market Place events. Market Place, under the tower of St John Baptist Church in the centre of town, holds weekly Charter markets on Mondays and Fridays throughout the year, as well as the monthly Arts & Crafts Market and the Farmers’ Market, held on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month. There are also a number of speciality markets and events that change with the seasons, such as Christmas markets, vegan markets, car shows, Spring festivals and live band performances. Dogs are welcome to peruse the stalls with you – from local food, plants, household goods and artisan products, you’re sure to find something for you or your pooch to take home! You can find the market schedule here.
Visit surrounding Cotswolds villages. As we’ve mentioned, Cirencester is one of the better-connected towns in the Cotswolds, making it easy to visit other picturesque surrounding villages by public transport. If you have a car, however, this opens up a lot more places in reachable distance from the town. Famous villages like Bibury, Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water are all less than 30 minutes drive from Cirencester, and you’ll be spoilt with charming walks through quiet country lanes, like this one through Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter. The characterful Cotswold stone cottages and fresh countryside air make for the perfect day out, walking with your four-legged friends by your side. Find out more about visiting Cotswolds villages on our dedicated blog post.
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