Best hotels that offer dog and cat lodging near Watford

Just over half an hours drive from the historic center of Watford, the Doubletree by Hilton in London Elstree is the perfect hub for families who want to also visit attractions such as the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio. Pets are welcomed with a small additional charge per room, and the hotel has plenty of outdoor areas where they can relieve themselves. The reception will be happy to provide pet bowls and can also direct you to local dog-friendly parks where you can walk any canine companions. The hotel itself has a bar and restaurant. If your dog accompanies you to the bar, please keep them on a leash.

The White Hart Hotel is a 600-year-old coaching inn just 600 yards from the center of St Albans, and less than a 20-minute drive from the historic town of Watford. Its iconic façade speaks to its Tudor-era origins, but the interior seamlessly blends modern comfort with historic character. The White Hart is pet-friendly, but they do ask that you request a pet-friendly room as the ability to bring pets is subject to availability (and a small extra fee). The hotel sits opposite the Cathedral and is within easy walking distance of green areas such as Verulamium Park where you can walk your dog. There are areas suitable for pet relief directly outside the property, too, and the staff will be happy to provide pet bowls when asked.

If you are looking for a country getaway less than 20 minutes from Watford, Grim’s Dyke hotel could be just what you have been searching for. Set in 40 acres of lush countryside and proudly pet-friendly, Grim’s Dyke offers ample opportunity for you to spend the day exploring with your furry best friend. You can bring up to two pets per room with an 80 pound weight limit. There may be a small extra charge for bringing your pet, but this will be stated clearly when you book. One of the main benefits of this hotel is that there are so many places where you can take your pet for exercise and relief. The staff does ask that you don’t intentionally let your pet relieve themselves in the main garden by the hotel, but if they do you can simply clean it up. They understand that these things can’t always be helped.

The Red Lion Hotel is based in the center of the small village of Radlett, which is about 15 minutes from Watford by car. The Red Lion welcomes dogs but does apply a small charge to rooms housing animals. This will be clearly listed when you book. You can bring up to two dogs per pet friendly room at a cost of £15 (US$20) per dog, per stay. There are no pet relief areas on the property thanks to its central location, but it is a short walk to local green spaces. If you want to take your dog for a long walk, Thirskcliffe Nature Park is a short drive or moderate walk from the hotel.

Perfectly placed between Watford and London, the Ibis hotel at Elstree Borehamwood is a great hub for those who want to enjoy the countryside and the attractions of the big city. This Ibis hotel is pet-friendly, however, there is an extra charge when you bring pets. This will be clearly shown when you book and pay. The hotel is within 500 yards of two local parks, Maxwell and Meadow Park, so there are convenient locations for pet relief and dog walking nearby.

Being in a new environment with your pets can be tough. Pets don’t always feel happy and settled in new places. When you bring your pet to a hotel, it can be incredibly helpful to bring some familiar items. A favorite blanket and toy can make a huge difference in how they feel. It is also important that you keep their routine as intact as possible. This means feeding them at the times you normally do, and if you bring a dog, walk at times that match their normal routine. Travel can be stressful for pets, so if you have any concerns about their health or behavior, book a virtual vet appointment with Vetster to get advice and guidance.