An expert in all things dog friendly has shared the best walks and pubs to visit with your canine companion in north Wales.
Rachel Southern, creative director of Dog Friendly Destinations , has shared five of her recommendations for owners.
She runs the website with her sister-in-law, Lauren, who has her own dog - a rescue who was found under a caravan and so badly treated that he hates being left alone.
As a result, the nine-year-old Collie, Milo, goes everywhere with Lauren who has since built up a catalogue of dog friendly locations.
When Rachel got a Beagle called Lyra, they decided to set up a website to share their recommendations.
Speaking to TeamDogs, Rachel said, “There’s a National Trust property called Bodnant Gardens with views over Snowdonia.
“It’s like a dog haven with a whole wild area with lakes and even though its so popular you hardly bump into anyone because it's so big.”
Bodnant Gardens is near Tal-y-Cafn in Conwy.
Another of her favourites is Moel Famau, the tallest summit in the Clwydian Range in Flintshire.
At the top you can see over north Wales and Cheshire. Rachel urged caution with dogs, reiterating to keep them on a lead if they struggle with recall.
The last walk Rachel recommends is Llanddwyn Island, a tidal island off Anglesey.
Dogs are only allowed there outside of the months May to September due to nesting birds.
Rachel said: “Anglesey is just an absolute treat for dogs in general. They’ve got beaches, nature reserves and so much to do in the area.”
Any dog walker living in the country will know, there is not much better than finishing a long hike with a welcoming pub to settle into and refuel with something to eat and drink.
Also in Anglesey, near Rhosneigr, Rachel recommends The Oyster Catcher.
Rachel said: “It’s almost like a modern glass structure with a huge terrace overlooking the beach.
“They always have big bowls of water and dog treats for the dogs and then you can walk along the beach afterwards so you get a full day out.
“It’s not just a lunch or dinner, it's a really nice place to go.”
Finally, making sure she supported local, Rachel raved about her local pub, Glasfryn in Mold, Flintshire.
She said: “It’s a modern pub and they have a dog friendly bar area and outside, views over north Wales and a lovely beer garden with views too.
“They’ve always got treats and the staff actually ignore you in favour of your dog!
“There’s so many new dog owners over lockdown and when you take your dog out you want a little bit of reassurance.”
Rachel, Lauren, and their small pool of freelance writers are making it their mission to create a fool proof catalogue of dog friendly destinations in the UK now that lockdown is over including places to eat, stay and go.
