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- 24th Sep 2025
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28 of the best dog-friendly pubs, cafés and restaurants in the North East
From rustic coastal inns to city centre staples, these are the places that offer roaring fires, hearty menus and a warm welcome for both you and your dog.
The Brandling Villa
Haddricks Mill Road, South Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 1QL
One of Newcastle’s best-known dog-friendly pubs, The Brandling Villa has built its reputation on making four-legged guests feel welcome. Resident dogs often wander the bar, water bowls are on hand and there’s even a dedicated dog menu, complete with “paw patties.” The food offering is strong, too, with an extensive burger list and a good selection of local ales. Situated in South Gosforth, it’s a convenient stop after a walk through nearby Jesmond Dene or the Town Moor, and the relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere makes it a reliable choice for a post-walk pint or casual weekend lunch.
The Bridge Tavern
7 Akenside Hill, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3UF
This cool pub on Newcastle’s Quayside serves artisan ales from its on-site microbrewery. They prioritise locally sourced, seasonal comfort food, and we have to say, it’s delicious. We’re fans of the sesame calamari, the meat and cheese sharing platter, the parmo stottie… (we could go on). Why leave the puppy at home when this dog-friendly central location welcomes your pooch with open arms – and dog treats, too.
Wylam Brewery
Palace of Arts Exhibition Park, Claremont Road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE2 4PZ
Imagine a weekend afternoon stroll with your dog through the Exhibition Park, finishing up at the impressive Palace of Arts for a couple of pints of craft ale at Wylam Brewery. At this dog-friendly venue, there is always something happening, and plenty of room for your pup to explore while you sip and relax – we love sitting outside next to the log-burning stoves, but they’re welcome inside, too. If you’re visiting on a Sunday, try their indulgent Sunday Roast, with locally sourced fine cuts of meat, served until 5.00pm.
The Tyne Bar
1 Maling St, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE6 1LP
A Newcastle icon. Tucked in Ouseburn Valley, The Tyne Bar has been a go-to hangout in Newcastle for over 25 years. With great vibes, this independent pub is a favourite for both locals and visitors. Their famous beer garden is ideal for chilling with your dog, but don’t worry, pups are just as welcome inside too.
Tiny Tiny
9-11 Carliol Square, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 6UF
Tiny Tiny is the place to stop by if you’re looking to enjoy brilliant coffee and inventive breakfasts, such as their baked cauliflower Bombay potato hash and Moroccan avocado on toast, while hanging out with your pooch. With its charming decor and friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing coffee stop with your furry friend by your side.
The Cluny
36 Lime Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2PQ
Part pub, part music venue, The Cluny has been a mainstay of the Ouseburn for years. Its industrial-chic interior provides a welcoming space for both dog owners and music lovers. The menu offers generous portions of pub classics, and the bar serves a good range of local beers. Dogs are welcome in the main bar area, making it a convenient choice for those walking the Ouseburn Valley. It’s worth checking the events calendar in advance – you may be able to time your visit with a live gig.
The Free Trade Inn
Free Trade Inn, 12 St. Lawrence Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 1AP
An institution in Newcastle’s pub scene, The Free Trade Inn is known for its extensive range of craft beer and its panoramic views over the Quayside. Inside, the décor is no-frills but full of character, with plenty of space for dogs to stretch out after a walk along the Ouseburn. It’s a popular meeting place for beer enthusiasts, thanks to its rotating selection of local and national brews, and has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere that suits an unhurried afternoon pint. Plus, catch Hake Seafood on site every Friday.
The Redhouse
32 Sandhill, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3JF
For hearty food and a cosy setting, The Redhouse is hard to beat. Housed in a historic building on the Quayside, it offers traditional pies, mash and peas served in a candlelit interior with exposed beams and stone floors. Dogs are welcome throughout, and the riverside location makes it an easy choice after a walk along the Tyne. Its combination of atmosphere, comfort food and dog-friendly policy makes it one of the city’s most reliable pubs for a relaxed lunch or supper.
Blackfriars Parlour Bar
Friars Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 4XN
Blackfriars’ Parlour Bar, nestled in a 13th-century medieval friary, is not just one of the oldest dining spots in the UK, but it’s also a dog-friendly gem. Step back in time while enjoying delicious food in a place with stone walls and comfy leather chairs. The Parlour Bar even has tasty treats on offer for your furry friend. If you’re feeling peckish, then the menu features hearty, traditional British dishes crafted from seasonal produce sourced locally.
The Beehive
Hartley Lane, Whitley Bay, NE25 0SZ
The Beehive is a classic country pub with a reputation for good food and a welcoming atmosphere. The interior is cosy without being cramped, with open fires in winter and a large beer garden for warmer days. Dogs are welcome in specific dog-friendly rooms, and its location near the coast makes it an ideal stop after a beach walk at Whitley Bay or St Mary’s Island. Expect a menu of well-executed pub favourites and a good selection of real ales.
YOLO
9 Bell Villas, Ponteland, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE20 9BD
Stylish and modern, YOLO Ponteland proves that dog-friendly doesn’t have to mean rustic. The airy space and contemporary décor make it a popular choice for brunch, lunch or casual evening drinks. Dogs are welcome inside, and the staff are known for being accommodating. The menu is varied, covering everything from light bites to sharing plates, and there’s a well-curated cocktail list for later in the day. It’s a useful spot if you’re looking for somewhere a little more polished that still welcomes four-legged friends.
1901 Caffe Bistro
68 St George’s Terrace, West Jesmond, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE2 2DL
This welcoming bistro and cafe is nestled in the heart of Jesmond, with speciality coffees and delicious smoothies to explore on the menu. 1901 welcomes dogs inside and out, with free biscuits and a water bowl, so your pup can have a treat while you dig into a tasty breakfast, brunch or lunch.
Hinnies
10 East Parade, Whitley Bay, NE26 1AP
There are few things better than a dog walk along the coast followed by a rustic, warm and cosy meal inspired by some British classics. At Hinnies in Whitley Bay, you can dine right on the seafront without leaving your pooch in the cold. Owner Andy Hook also looks after award-winning restaurants such as Blackfriars and Dobson and Parnell; the food here is just as delicious. Its menus feature Geordie-influenced classic dishes made from scratch using local and seasonal produce.
Twenty Twenty
5 Bigg Market, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1UN
If you’re after a pizza paradise, bring your furry friend along to Twenty Twenty, where pooches and humans alike can socialise in a relaxed environment. Hosted by Twenty Twenty’s much-loved mascot, Theo the Labradoodle, here you can expect puppuccinos, free dog treats, dog beer and plenty of photo opportunities.
Grannie Annies
Marine Walk, Sunderland, SR3 0PL
Dog-friendly and perfectly located near the beach and park so you can pop in after a walk, they have a pretty extensive menu, including a traditional Sunday dinner. There’s live music playing every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, although it’s worth noting dogs have to vacate the pub after 8.00pm during the weekend.
The Old Boat House
Leazes Street, Amble, Morpeth NE65 0AA
Located right on the harbour in Amble, The Old Boat House specialises in fresh, locally caught seafood served in a relaxed setting. The simple, whitewashed interior lets the food, and the view, take centre stage. Dogs are welcome inside, making it a good choice for sheltering from the weather after a bracing coastal walk. Dishes are seasonal and unfussy, and there’s usually a daily catch special worth trying.
The Northumberland Arms
The Peth, West Thirston, Felton, Morpeth, NE65 9EE
Set in the quiet village of Felton, The Northumberland Arms offers a refined take on the traditional country pub. The 19th-century coaching inn has been sensitively restored, with open fires, wooden floors and a menu that balances comfort with quality. Expect locally sourced meat, seasonal vegetables and well-executed classics. Dogs are welcome in the bar area, which has plenty of space for walkers stopping off after a stroll along the River Coquet. It’s an excellent choice for a leisurely lunch, a hearty Sunday roast or simply a glass of wine by the fire on a chilly afternoon.
The Barrasford Arms
Barrasford, Hexham, NE48 4AA
Tucked away in rural Northumberland, The Barrasford Arms is the sort of pub that feels like a reward at the end of a long walk. Inside, you’ll find stone walls, flagstone floors and a log fire in winter, while the menu focuses on hearty, seasonal dishes made with local produce. Dogs are welcome in the bar area, and there’s a garden for sunny days. It’s an excellent stop-off point if you’re exploring the nearby countryside or looking for a Sunday roast destination.
The Duke of Wellington Inn
Newton, Stocksfield, NE43 7UL
This traditional inn combines period charm with excellent hospitality. Perched on the outskirts of Corbridge, it offers sweeping views of the Tyne Valley, a menu full of well-prepared classics and a carefully chosen wine list. Dogs are welcome in the bar and lounge areas, making it a good option after a riverside or Hadrian’s Wall walk. The atmosphere is calm and refined, and the Sunday lunch is particularly popular.
The Ship Inn
Low Newton-by-the-Sea, Alnwick, NE66 3EL
Few pubs can match the setting of The Ship Inn. Overlooking the beach at Low Newton, it’s the perfect end point for a coastal walk, whatever the weather. The menu is seafood-led, with crab sandwiches and daily specials, and there’s a small on-site microbrewery producing well-regarded ales. Dogs are welcome throughout, including the outdoor seating area, where you can sit with a pint and watch the tide roll in. It’s a simple, unpretentious spot that rewards the journey with good food, good beer and a view that’s hard to beat.
The Boathouse
Station Road, Wylam, NE41 8HR
A multi-award-winning real ale pub, The Boathouse is located next to Wylam Bridge and is known for its wide range of beers and welcoming atmosphere. The interior is cosy and full of character, with plenty of space for dogs. It’s a popular choice for those combining a pub visit with a riverside walk.
The Joiners Arms
High Newton-by-the-Sea, Alnwick, NE66 3EA
Bright, characterful and close to the coast, The Joiners Arms is one of Northumberland’s most popular dog-friendly pubs. The décor is colourful and slightly eclectic, and the menu is full of generous portions of hearty food. Dogs are welcome throughout, and there’s often a lively atmosphere, particularly at weekends.
The Kings Arms
The Harbour, West Terrace, Seaton Sluice, Whitley Bay, NE26 4RD
This historic pub offers views across the sea and a menu of well-executed pub staples, including excellent fish and chips. Dogs are welcome in the bar area (when food is not being served, so check timings), and the location makes it an ideal place to stop after a walk along the coastal path. If you’re happy to sit outside, there’s plentiful outdoor seating for you and your pooch, with views across Seaton Sluice harbour and Blyth beach.
The Blackbird
North Road, Ponteland, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE20 9UH
One of Ponteland’s oldest pubs, The Blackbird has bags of character, with its timbered interior and open fires. Dogs are welcome in the bar area, and the food menu is broad, offering everything from sandwiches to Sunday roasts. Its central location makes it a convenient meeting spot.
The Boatyard
1 John Street, Cullercoats, North Shields, NE30 4PL
Perfectly positioned between Tynemouth and Whitley Bay, The Boatyard is a bright, friendly café-bar serving coffee, brunch and cocktails. Dogs are welcome inside and out, and it’s a great spot to pause on a coastal walk. The food is fresh and colourful – all made from scratch each day – with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
Ye Old Elm Tree
12 Crossgate, St Margarets Garth, Durham, DH1 4PS
One of Durham’s oldest inns, Ye Old Elm Tree sits just by the Cathedral and feels timeless. Featured in The Telegraph’s Best Pub Guide, inside, traditional oak beams, flagstone floors, and a snug bar space give it a warm, historic character. Dogs are welcome throughout, with water bowls at the ready and staff who clearly appreciate four-legged guests. The menu features hearty pub classics, think Sunday carvery, stews and locally sourced ingredients, all served in a welcoming, no-fuss environment.
The Dun Cow
37 Old Elvet, Durham, DH1 3HN
Historic charm meets good hospitality at The Dun Cow. With stone walls, rustic touches and a fireplace running when the weather cools, it offers a genuine sense of place. Dogs are very much part of the scene – curled up under tables, welcomed by staff, and never made to feel like they’re out of place. The food is traditional: roasts, pies, seasonal veg, and comforting sides. When the market’s done, or after visiting Durham Cathedral, this pub offers the kind of warmth that feels particularly comforting in autumn.
The Parkwood Hotel – Hartburn, Stockton-on-Tees
64-66 Darlington Road, Hartburn, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 5ER
Part pub, part hotel, Parkwood Hotel in Hartburn has a versatility that works well for dog owners. Dogs are allowed in the bar and large garden, offering space for pups to stretch out. The setting is charming: village feel, pleasant rooms if you stay, solid food in the bar. Classics, daily specials, and a warm welcome are standard. Whether you’ve been exploring nearby countryside or simply want a restful stop with your dog, it’s the kind of place you’ll return to.
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