Is there anything better than a quick pint in the local? What if you could take your four-legged friend with you too? There are so many dog friendly pubs in Cardiff. Before I had Ivan The Irresistible, I didn’t realise how dog friendly Cardiff is. I’ve put together this blog guide so you know which pubs allow dogs.
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When I started writing this article; I didn’t think it would take very long to put it together. How wrong was I?! I knew there were dog friendly pubs in Cardiff, but I thought there was only a handful. There are over 60 on this list. Can you believe it? I have broken it down by area of the city to make finding them more manageable for you.
Table of Contents
- Cardiff Bay
- Grangetown
- Cardiff City Centre
- Cathays
- Roath
- Maindy
- Heath
- Pontcanna
- Canton
- Ely
- St Fagans
- Fairwater
- Cyncoed
- St Mellons
- Llandaff
- Llandaff North
- Whitchurch
- Rhiwbina
- Thornhill
- Llanishen
- Lisvane
- Radyr
- Morganstown
- Tongwynlais
- Gwaelod-y-Garth
- Pentrych
- Taffs Well
- Dog Friendly Restaurants in Cardiff
- Dog Friendly Beaches
- Dog Friendly Walks
- Dog friendly Hotels in Cardiff
- Dog friendly Shops in Cardiff
Why do people in the UK take their dogs to the pubs?
Firstly, why wouldn’t you allow dogs in pubs? I love taking Ivan on adventures, including an outing to the pub. It’s where his cheeky personality shines. He rolls over or howls for attention – it’s the husky in him. Lately, he has started to go up to other patrons sniffing pockets or handbags looking for a treat. We’re indulging in the pub, so why shouldn’t he? He gets lots of attention and tidbits.
Dog owners and their pets are vital to the community. They have proven themselves to be an asset to pubs across the country. According to research done by Kennel Club, 98% of dog friendly pubs believe that business has improved by dogs being allowed on the premises.
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Dog friendly Pubs Cardiff Bay
The Waterguard
As long as your dog is kept on the lead, they are more than welcome at The Waterguard. It is also a digital detox pub, where phones are encouraged to be turned off and ask children not to watch something on the iPad. Encouraging conversation and family time.
Hubbox
Ok, Hubbox Cardiff is technically one of the dog friendly restaurants in Cardiff Bay. As it’s a favourite of mine, I had to include it. If you fancy a proper burger with all the toppings, plus fries and sides, you have to eat here. They also serve local brews, cocktails, shakes and real lemonade.
Lo Lounge
Lo Lounge (previous Look Out Bar) is somewhere to unwind with stunning views over the bay. The menu consists of light bites, main meals, sweet treats and a fully stocked bar. Dogs are very welcome. They even have their own resident pooch called Poco.
Dog friendly Pubs Grangetown
The Grange Pub
If you like real food and real ales, The Grange is very welcoming. They serve real ale, craft beer, fine wine and top-quality homemade food. The staff love fussing dogs and often have treats at the ready. The popular pub is full of character and atmosphere.
Cornwall Pub
The Cornwall is one of the pubs which allow dogs in Cardiff. It is one of the meeting points for Cardiff City football fans on match day and regularly show sporting events on the big screens. You can enjoy traditional pub grub and drinks throughout the week.
Dog friendly Pubs Cardiff City Centre
Cambrian Tap
A small but perfectly formed pub with a mixture of large tables and small booths. The Cambrian Tap has a range of ales from traditional through to IPA, with a couple of great lagers and ciders on tap too. Four-legged pals love it as well and are always offered a doggy bowl to quench their thirst.
Corner House
Dogs will have a really good time in The Corner House. They even get given treats! The premium pub, bar and restaurant is in the heart of the city centre. It is the perfect spot for brunch, lunch, dinner or drinks.
Tiny Rebel
The Cardiff bar is opposite Principality stadium. (The Millennium Stadium if you’re a traditionalist like me) Tiny Rebel has themed rooms and serves craft beers and ciders made in Wales, alongside creative burgers, pizzas and picky platters. The staff love dogs, who can sit anywhere, and treats will be offered before you even place your order.
BrewDog
The staff at BrewDog are always happy to recommend ales and let you have a small taste before you buy. And there are 25 taps to choose from. The venue is so dog friendly; they even host Dog Pawtie’s. With party hats, dog ice-cream sundaes, celebration cards and a donation to charity!
Kongs
I never would have thought Kongs was dog friendly. However, they have water bowls at the ready. It is an underground retro bar, which video games and ping pong. You’ll especially love the retro games, including Pacman, Donkey Kong and Mortal Kombat.
Underdog
Under the same ownership as Kongs is Underdog. Found on Guildhall Place, in the laid back bar you can expect retro vibes, neon lighting, pool and arcade games, craft beers, happy hour cocktails and huge slices of pizza from West Pizza. Dogs are also more than welcome!
Head of Steam
Stocked to the brim with over 40 different gins, with countless craft beers and a promise to rotate when more craft beer comes through, Head of Steam has more than enough to offer. They are known for their fresh burgers, stone-baked pizzas and vegan dishes. The cosy atmosphere works perfectly for dogs who like to go to the pub.
The Blue Bell
Cardiff’s Goat Major recently returned to its original name, The Blue Bell, established in 1813. I don’t remember the name change controversy back in 1995, but I was only 11. If one was hungry, you could order bread and cheese, cold meats, pickles or sandwiches back in the day. These days, you can indulge on traditional pub grub with your dog curled up at your feet.
The Stable Cardiff
I recently had the bottomless offer of pizza, pints and pudding at Stable Cardiff – which is only £25! I love that it’s one of the pubs you can take dogs in. With wooden benches and tables, it has a laid-back atmosphere. Not sure what drink you want to try, then a tasting board is the way to go. Try five different 1/3 pints of cider or craft beer for £10.
Pen & Wig
Good news, the pub is dog friendly. The pub is the perfect place to bring your furry friend. Tasty food is served daily until 10pm, and drinks can be in the bar or garden. The real ale selection changes throughout the year. The Pen & Wig is opposite the National Museum of Wales.
Blackweir Tavern
The Blackweir Tavern has a fantastic range of drinks, food, pub games, events and live sports on TV just off the Taff Trail. Making it a great place to stop off before or after a walk in Bute Park with your pup. Dogs are welcome in the lower bar, clearly indicated by the doggy bar with readily available water. You may even be asked if your pooch can be the “dog of the week” for their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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Dog friendly Pubs Cathays
The Flora
If you like no-frills pubs, then The Flora will fit the bill. Your dog will enjoy being fussed by the students who miss their own pets at home, and you will love the large outdoor courtyard and beer garden.
Crwys
Right in the middle of Crwys Road is one of the pets welcome pubs in Cathays. Expect food, drink and a famous weekly quiz. If you’re looking for affordable eats and drinks and a friendly welcome, stop at The Crwys.
The Woodville
Known locally as The Woody, it is a chilled-out pub in the heart of Cathays. Watch the world go by on the front terrace, or chill out in the hidden beer garden at the back. Locals, students and visitors are made to feel welcome at The Woodville, including four-legged friends.
Mackintosh Hotel
The Mackintosh is in the heart of Cathays and is popular with the locals and students. You can watch sport on the large TV screens or pick your favourite songs on the jukebox, free before 5pm every day. Dogs are greeted with a big hello, whilst you decide what you’d like to drink.
Cathays Beer House
I’m a massive fan of independents. Cathays Beer House has a well-curated selection of delicious craft beers, ciders, and bottles and cans. Everyone is greeted as a friend and is made to feel welcome. It is a smaller establishment, so big groups will have to book in advance. Of course, you can bring your dog along too.
Dog friendly Pubs Roath
Juno Lounge
Upon arrival, dogs are offered a water bowl to keep them hydrated at Juno Lounge. Food is always fantastic, and there are even specific menus for vegan and gluten-free. Why not go for a walk around Roath Park to build up an appetite or thirst.
Albany
All members of the family are welcome, including your canine companion. They may have treats available occasionally, but you always get a fresh bowl of water. The Albany is a traditional pub with a lively bar, comfortable lounge, and a hidden garden – a true gem in the summer.
Pear Tree
If you want to take your pet dog to the pub, head to The Pear Tree. It has a café bar vibe throughout the day, with people on their laptops or reading the papers. Pub grub is served all day alongside your favourite drinks. Bring your dog with you and enjoy the fuss they get.
The Andrew Buchan
One of the handful of pubs run by the Rhymney Brewery, where you can buy cask ales, real cider and perry – all at a wallet-friendly price. The Andrew Buchan is one of the pubs that accept dogs. It has an authentic, cosy ambience, and the real fire in the winter adds to this.
Dog friendly Pubs in Maindy
North Star Pub Cardiff
One of the places to drink in Cardiff with your dog is the North Star Cardiff. The pub is a great spot for food and drinks seven days a week. The courtyard garden is perfect for soaking up the sun with an ice-cold drink. There’s also a pool table, games machines, darts and board games.
Dog friendly Pubs Heath
Heath
The traditional pub has a large open bar and a spacious dining area. The Heath always has a lively mix of regulars, students and local office workers. Alongside food and drink for humans, dogs can expect treats or even cooked food.
Dog friendly Pubs Pontcanna
The Cricketers
The multi-award-winning pub in an old Victorian townhouse serves a great range of Welsh real ales from its sister brewery Evan Evans in Llandeilo. The Cricketers has a fab beer garden for the summer and an open fire in the winter. Dogs are always welcome, and there’s even treats waiting for them at the bar.
The Pontcanna Inn
Formally the Cayo Arms, The Pontcanna Inn is on Cathedral Road, close to Sophia Gardens. The welcoming lounge bar and terraces are perfect for dogs. The tempting menu is served all day – and often a BBQ too. All this alongside an eclectic range of craft beer, real ales, cider, wine, cocktail and spirits.
Halfway
Named because it is famously halfway between the centre of Cardiff and Llandaff. The Halfway is excellent for grabbing a drink with friends. Cwtch up in front of the log fire in the winter, or enjoy the courtyard in the summer. Your furry friends are more than welcome as well.
Dog friendly Pubs Canton
The Lansdowne
As a previous runner up of DogBuddy’s dog-friendly pub of the year, you know to expect a warm reception. CAMRA have awarded them Pub of the Year in 2014, 2015 and 2019, and it was highly recommended in 2017 and 2018. The food always gets a big thumbs up from guests too.
Dog friendly Pubs Ely
The Horse & Jockey
With a fantastic view, how could you not visit the Horse & Jockey? It is a little hidden; you could say it’s a best-kept secret. You’ll be super impressed with the service, and a bowl of water will be brought for your dog before you even ask.
Dog friendly Pubs St Fagans
The Plymouth Arms
They claim that they are the best dog friendly pub in Cardiff. (I enjoy visiting here, especially after walking around St Fagans, but I don’t think that claim is valid. There are no dog treats available or dog food on the menu!) The Plymouth Arms has log fires in the winter and a large beer garden for the summer. Enjoy the food menu and a wide range of tipples to wash it down with.
Dog friendly Pubs Fairwater
Fairwater
The Fairwater is perfect for a meal or a drink with family and friends. The traditional pub has good value food and drink menus as well as a kids outdoor play area. There are fantastic offers throughout the week and live sport on the TV. Head here if you’re looking for dog friendly pubs in south Wales.
Dog friendly Pubs Cyncoed
Hollybush
The outdoor seating area is a hot spot on a sunny day, but dogs are welcome indoors when it rains – and it does that a lot here in Cardiff. Pub classic dishes are on the menu at the Hollybush, along with chef’s specials; you should be spoilt for choice.
Dog friendly Pubs St Mellons
The Poachers Arms
In Old St Mellons is The Poachers Arms. The food always gets rave reviews, and the level of customer service is top-notch – warm and friendly. Other customers love to make you feel welcome, too, especially if you have your dog with you.
Fox & Hounds
The Fox and Hounds is a traditional pub with a stunning beer garden and warming log fires inside. It is labelled a hidden treasure, with an extensive food menu, including daily specials and offers throughout the week. There’s something for everyone, including your four-legged friend.
Dog friendly Pubs Llandaff
Butcher’s Arms
The Butcher’s Arms has all the atmosphere and feel of a country pub, despite being in the heart of a city. There’s a huge heated garden area, ideal for evening drinks. The traditional pub food is also paired with themed nights such as pizza on Thursdays and Caribbean on Saturdays.
Black Lion
The Black Lion welcomes well behaved canine companions. It is a brilliant place to bring your dog with great hospitality. You can expect honest pub grub and a great range of drinks. This includes ales, beers and traditional ciders.
The Maltsters
The first pub in Cardiff on this list called The Maltsters. Other than welcoming dogs, they couldn’t be more different. This is an excellent pub with a contemporary modern style. Real ales, continental beers and fine wines complement the dining favourites.
The Heathcock
One of the dog friendly pubs Cardiff is the Heathcock. It has been a watering hole for over 100 years. Using the best ingredients from Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan, you can expect decent homemade food. Thursday to Sunday evenings, the Champagne and Oyster Bar is open here too.
Dog friendly Pubs Llandaff North
The Railway
The Railway is crazy about dogs. The bar and beer garden are both dog friendly, so bring your four-legged companion for some treats and fuss whilst you relax with a beverage. You can also expect homemade food and specials throughout the week.
Restaurants and Pubs in Llandaff Cardiff
Dog friendly Pubs Whitchurch
Fox and Hounds
If there is a Dog Bar, you know you’re in a dog friendly pub. The large beer garden at the Fox & Hounds is very popular in the summer months, which is perfect for pooches. Inside dogs are welcome too and you can expect good food, drinks and regular live music.
The Maltsters
The community pub serves great beer and drinks throughout the week. The Maltsters welcomes hoomans and dogs. It’s a little scruffy around the edges, but that’s how the best pubs should be. There are two beer gardens; one at the back and the one at the front even has heaters.
The Plough
There are lots of home comforts in this pub. If your dog loves a fuss, they will love visiting The Plough. It is one of the many places to eat in Whitchurch. The bistro menu is built around local ingredients wherever possible, with daily specials too. Throughout the week there are drinks offers too.
Fino Lounge
In the heart of Whitchurch village is Fino Lounge. With full-length windows that open up onto a terrace, it’s perfect for people watching. It is deceptively big, with tables across two floors. Food is always fantastic, and there are even specific menus for vegan and gluten-free.
Venue
!!! CLOSED !!! Four-legged friends are welcome in Venue (previously Jack Russell’s Irish Bar). With great street food and good drinks, the bar is comfortable and cosy – making it one of the top dog friendly pubs Cardiff. There is also a fantastic roof terrace and a large garden.
Fox and Hounds
With a large children’s play area and a large beer garden with plenty of tables, The Fox & Hounds is ideal in the summer months. Inside the traditional dog friendly pub, there are regular events, including live music. Choose pub grub to suit your dietary requirements and wash it down with your favourite drink.
Dog friendly Pubs Rhiwbina
Ye Olde Butchers Arms
The Butchers Arms has a reputation for its excellent food, and caters for a variety of tastes. Alongside affordable beers, ales, wines and spirits. Sports fans can watch live TV or play pool or darts. Dog owners love bringing their pets here too. Make sure to check out the local Farmers Market every Friday morning too.
The Pantmawr Inn
With a large open bar area and cosy corners, The Pantmawr Inn is a popular pub. Dogs are more than welcome to join you for excellent food and a wide choice of drinks. The building has most of its original features. It was a dairy until it was converted in 1960.
Deri Inn
If you’re looking for a pub to go to with your dog in Rhiwbina, the Deri Inn is a popular spot for food and drink. There is a wide selection of dishes, including lunch offers, a dinner menu and Sunday roasts.
Dog friendly Pubs Thornhill
Pendragon
The Pendragon has a delicious menu full of pub classics. The extensive drink range features a great selection of cask ales, draught beers, premium spirits, world wines, fizz, cocktails, and soft drinks. Don’t forget your four-legged friends!
The Travellers Rest
Service is always excellent at The Travellers Rest, and there are dog treats at the bar for pooches. With a beautiful thatched roof and log fires, it is the pawfect place to cosy up with your pup. Enjoy a traditional British menu and a well-stocked bar.
Black Cock Inn
Ok, technically, The Black Cock Inn is in Caerphilly. As it’s only a short distance from The Travellers Rest, I’ve chosen to include it. Dogs are welcome in the bar area and in the two beer gardens. It is a popular stop for walkers, cyclists and riders as they cross Caerphilly Mountain. You can expect homemade food, real ales and quality drinks.
Dog friendly Pubs in Llanishen
Ffynnon Wen
The Fynnon Wen is found in a 17th Century farmhouse. There are great food and drink offers throughout the week, which you can enjoy with your furry best friend. It’s also one of the quiz night in Cardiff venues.
Dog friendly Pubs Lisvane
The Old Cottage
Dog owners love visiting The Old Cottage in Lisvane. They are welcome in the bar area, but not the restaurant part. It is a great place to unwind, with a drink including a selection of wines, real ales, lagers, soft drinks and spirits. From brunch to light bites, lunch to sharing platters, an evening dinner or a scrumptious Sunday roast. You and your dog will love visiting this Cardiff pub.
Ty Mawr
Grab a table by the fire or a spot in the garden before settling in to enjoy some food and drink. The Ty Mawr has a beautiful view over Cardiff. The resident pub dog is Joey, so you know that pawrents are in good hands.
Dog friendly Pubs Radyr
Radyr Tap
A great pub with a good choice of changing beers. Radyr Tap serves good beer, wine, gin or ale. The staff always greet dogs and are pleasant to humans too. You might even be asked to feature on their Twitter as a #TapDog.
Dog friendly Pubs Morganstown
Ty Nant
A cosy cottage-like pub offering local beers and bar menu favourites. From the beer garden and play area, if you look up, you can see Castell Coch. Dogs are allowed inside the Ty Nant on the hard-floored surfaces, just not the carpeted areas.
Dog friendly Pubs Tongwynlais
Lewis Arms
Used by walkers and cyclists as a pit stop on the Taff Trail or when visiting one of the castles in Cardiff – Castell Coch. Which is along the road. The Lewis Arms, one of the dog friendly pubs Cardiff, serves a typical pub menu and has a great selection of drinks. Four-legged friends are accepted with open arms.
Dog friendly Pubs Gwaelod-y-Garth
Gwaelod-y-Garth Inn
The friendly pub serves incredible food, including a dog’s dinner. Dogs are welcome in the garden and bar, but not the upstairs restaurant. The pub is also known for its outstanding service. I highly recommend visiting! Ivan loves to eat out with us, and when we go to The Gwaelod, he gets sausages and gravy.
Dog friendly Pubs Pentrych
Kings Arms
Cask ales and modern British food are served in a snug longhouse with lime-washed walls and dark beams. Expect rustic charm and a homely atmosphere. The chef has worked in Michelin star kitchens, so you can anticipate decent homemade food with flair. Dogs are welcome in the Kings Arms.
Dog friendly Pubs Taffs Well
Fagins Taffs Well
Just known as Fagins locally, the full name of the pub is Fagins Craft Beer House and Art Café. Formerly Fagins Ale and Chophouse. Now that’s out of the way… The pub serves guest ales and real cider alongside bar favourites. Food is served Tuesday to Saturday and Sunday lunchtime. It is a haven for walkers, cyclists and dogs.
Taffs Well Inn
Our local boozer is the Taffs Well Inn. I personally think it’s one of the top dog friendly pubs in Cardiff. Not only do dogs get catered for inside and out, with “posh” water bowls – that refill themselves – but the staff often bring over treats. The Welsh dog ice cream Utterly Mutterly can be purchased too. The beer garden has hooks on the tables so you can tether your dog to, giving you two hands to eat and drink with.
Did you know dogs are allowed on trains?
Getting around Cardiff has never been easier. Transport for Wales allows a maximum of two dogs per passenger on the train, free of charge. Just bear in mind they be kept on the lead at all times or in a basket. I love Multiflex, which gives you 12 journeys for the same price as 5 returns. And, who doesn’t want to save money?
With stops in Taffs Well, Radyr, Whitchurch, Llandaff North, Cathays, two in the city centre – Queen Street and Cardiff Central – plus Cardiff Bay. There’s no excuse not to take your dog with you. Especially if you fancy a dog friendly pub crawl.
How many of these dog friendly pubs in Cardiff have you been to?
Did you realise how many dog friendly pubs Cardiff there are? Hands up? I thought they were few and far between. Have I missed any of the list? What is your favourite to visit? Have you been to them all? Let me know in the comments.
Dog Friendly Restaurants in Cardiff
Why shouldn’t well-behaved dogs be allowed in restaurants? Some of the best places in Cardiff to eat and drink will let you bring your four-legged best friend too. From trendy rooftop bars, pizzerias, burgers and Indian street food.
Dog friendly restaurants in Cardiff
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Did you know you can get 2 for 1 on meals or 50% off food with a Tastecard? There are independent and chain restaurants to choose from and various cuisines. Get a 3-month free trial here:
Dog Friendly Beaches
There are so many beautiful beaches only 30 minutes from Cardiff. All are perfect for stretching your legs, dipping paws in the sea, and for discovering more of Wales. Many have no restrictions for dogs, and some have summer bans (boo!)
Dog Friendly Walks
If you’re sick of doing the same daily route, spice up your daily adventure with one of these dog walks in South Wales. You will be truly spoilt for choice.
Walks for you and your dog in Cardiff
Dog friendly Hotels in Cardiff
Discover the best dog friendly hotels in Cardiff. Enjoy outdoor adventures, spectacular walking, and fabulous places to eat and drink together in these lovely places to stay with your pet. They include national chain hotels, budget brands, pubs and country houses.
Check out my Dog friendly hotels in Cardiff guide with lots of discounts and offers.
Dog friendly Shops in Cardiff
If you’re like me, you like to take your faithful pup everywhere with you, including shopping. There are plenty of dog friendly shops in Cardiff, so you don’t have to leave them at home when you want to window shop or splash the cash.
Dog-friendly Cardiff
If you’re struggling to find dog-friendly activities, let me help you with some suggestions, including the address, where to park, if free, or if there is a cost. Our travel and staycations are included, so you can find some new places to take your dog on holiday.
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