Dog-friendly days out in London
From a dedicated doggy park in west London to a museum that lets dogs (and cats) through its doors in the south of the city, discover cultural experiences you can share with your four-legged friend.
Got a well-behaved pooch you simply can't bear to leave home alone? Well, we've got good news for you – we're spotlighting some of the best venues across London that welcome dogs with open paws.
To ensure the best, waggy-tailed day out with your four-legged friend, it's important to be prepared. Please check with each venue ahead of your trip and familiarise yourself with where dogs are – and aren't – allowed.
So if you're looking for a pawfect day out in London, keep reading to discover our selection of dog-friendly museums, galleries and historic houses that you can visit with a National Art Pass.
Find dog-friendly places near you in London with an Art Pass
The Brunel Museum
One for the intellectually curious pups – the Brunel Museum uncovers the story of an engineering family who built the world's first tunnel of its kind. It's a perfect choice for a dog-friendly day out because it's the only venue on our list that welcomes pet dogs inside the museum. And did you know? They welcome cats too.
Chiswick House & Gardens
Got a playful pup that loves a big day out? Chiswick House & Gardens boasts a doggy playground kitted out with a multi-stage obstacle course, as well as lots of routes across the grounds for lovely walks. And if all that activity has got you both parched, drop by the dog-friendly Colicci Café to refuel with a tasty treat, a brew and a refreshing bowl of water. There are even free poo bags available at every gate. September sees the return of the Chiswick House Dog Show, featuring events, competitions and prizes – check ahead for dates.
Please note: only assistance dogs are allowed inside the House, Kitchen Garden and Shop.
Horniman Museum and Gardens
A south London gem, the Horniman Museum and Gardens boasts over 16 acres of outdoor space with dramatic views across the city. Explore the gardens with your four-legged friend on a lead, and let them roam free in the Meadow Field; however, they cannot enter the Museum or the Nature Trail.
Please note: only assistance dogs are allowed inside the museum.
Ham House and Garden
Treat your furry friend to stunning views of the River Thames and colourful gardens blooming with purple crocus, tulips and muscari during the spring season. Well-behaved dogs on leads are allowed in all outside areas (except Petersham meadow), the gift shop, and in a section of the Orangery Café.
Please note: only assistance dogs are allowed inside the house.
Serpentine
Take your dog for a relaxing walk through Hyde Park, where you will stumble upon the Serpentine, a free contemporary art gallery. Pet dogs unfortunately can't experience their cutting-edge exhibitions, but they can explore the iconic Serpentine Pavilion when it's open during the summer months. Outside Serpentine South, you'll find dog rings and water bowls, should you choose to leave your dogs as you visit the gallery.
Please note: only assistance dogs are welcome inside the galleries.
Osterley Park & House
Experience a taste of rural living at this Georgian country estate in west London. With your dog on a lead, meander through the surrounding park, unwind in the Stables Café and treat yourself to a gift from the shop. There's also an area on the front lawn where dogs can be unleashed, under close control.
Please note: pet dogs are not allowed in the garden over spring and summer, and only assistance dogs are allowed in all areas, including inside the house.
Marble Hill House
Roam through over 60 acres of parkland overlooking the River Thames at Marble Hill House, an elegant Georgian villa built for King George II's lover, Henrietta Howard. Dogs can explore most areas of the park off the lead and under close supervision, and can unwind with you in a designated area in the café on their lead.
Please note: assistance dogs are allowed into the house.