An award-winning hotel in west Dorset has been named as one of the purr-fect places to take your pet on holiday.

The Summer Lodge Country House Hotel in Evershot has been named as one of the 'pet friendliest hotels in the UK'.

The hotel has come sixth in a list compiled by EnjoyTravel.com of the best places to take your furry friend for a break.

Jack Mackenzie, general manager at Summer Lodge said: “We are delighted about it. The owners of the hotel have always been crazy about dogs, so it’s been a natural a progression.

“We have never had a snake, but we have had cats, dogs, birds, rabbits - parrots to Sunday lunch is a frequent occurrence, but we are predominantly dogs.

He added: "What we find over time is that more and more people want to come with their pets and they will be well looked after and welcomed and there is a growing demand for that."

READ: Meet the chef at the acclaimed Summer Lodge in Evershot

The picturesque hotel is described as providing the ‘ultimate relaxing weekend’ for pet owners who can expect ‘VIP treatment’ for their animal travel buddies.

EnjoyTravel.com said: “For the ultimate relaxing weekend away for both you and your pets, choose the Summer Lodge Hotel in the heart of the Dorset countryside.

“Complete with an indoor pool, spa, onsite restaurant, and event/wedding spaces, this place has everything you need for a truly special weekend away.

“As for your pets, they can expect VIP treatment, with bedding, food & water bowls, towels, treats, and a station to wash down your muddy pups after a long walk through the countryside. Plus, there is a selection of pet spa services and wellness therapies available for either your dog or cat, which includes behaviour consultations and even pet massages.”

The hotel is set in a beautiful part of the county, providing its guests with plenty of walking, cycling, horse riding, fishing and golf.

Not to mention being just a 25 minute drive from the Jurassic Coast - perfect for dog walking along the beach.

Bridport and Lyme Regis News: Summer Lodge Country House staff. Head chef James Mearing (centre, right). General manager Jack Mackenzie (centre, left) (Image: AA)Summer Lodge Country House staff. Head chef James Mearing (centre, right). General manager Jack Mackenzie (centre, left) (Image: AA) (Image: AA)

The hotel picked up the Gold Award in the 'Small Hotel of the Year' category at this year’s Dorset Tourism Awards.

As reported, staff were 'absolutely thrilled' after winning for the first time.

Known for its locally sourced food, including Dorset Blue Vinny cheese and local beef, staff at the hotel have also been celebrating picking up a prestigious culinary title.

The hotel picked up three rosettes at an AA Hotel and Hospitality Services awards ceremony.

The top 10 pet friendly UK hotels: 

  1. The Gyle, London
  2. Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa, Yorkshire
  3. Bovey Castle, Devon
  4. Spread Eagle Hotel, West Sussex
  5. Trigony Hotel, Dumfries & Galloway
  6. Summer Lodge Hotel, Dorset
  7. Coed-Y-Mwstwr, Bridgend
  8. The Corner Hotel, London
  9. Beech Hill Country House Hotel, Derry, Northern Ireland
  10. Slieve Donard, County Down, Northern Ireland